Handmade Mexican Talavera Tile dates backside to 15th century at Talavera De La Reina, Spain Mexican tile kitchen. Many of the colors, designs and handsome patterns of this decorative clay tile can be found on cultures prefer Chinese and Middle East, which most likely originated from 8th-century Arab countries. By the 16th century, Italian craftsmen started using distinct glazes, generating a lot of distinct colors know until then. Talavera Tile ceramic was dispersed around European countries reaching Spain. In turn, when the Spanish colonized Mexico, the trade was introduced to the local Mexican artisans and by doing so, they were competent to incorporate much more color and designs because of the Mexican culture richness.
Installation Tips
Because of the nature of Talavera tiles being handmade, small imperfections are to be expected. This restrictions necessitate to be known by the installer so he/she can provide the right remedies. Generally speaking, the following directions are a reference and by no means all-inclusive, whether in mistrust check with a professional Talavera tile installer prior starting your project.
- Apply a thin layer of thinset/cement on the surface to be tiled.
- Plot a small amount of thinset/cement in the middle of the backside of the tile. This will provide the middle portion plenty undergird to prohibit the tile from cracking under pressure.
- Set the tile in plot. Spacers are to be used with caution because of the small size variations. Installer should check whether the tiles are squared plenty to use them or by far use some variable spacer (i.e. pieces of cardboard).
- Spend only non-sanded grout. Sanded grout is used for 1/2″ grout lines. Talavera tiles are installed at 1/8″ grout line.
- Grant at least twenty minutes for the grout to xeric. A “haze” will open to appear.
- Spend a clean sponge to wipe away excess grout.
- Grant a drying period of 24 hours.
- It is recommended to seal the grout. Spend proper installation materials, sealer, and installation technique specific to work site requirements, or to make the tiles waterproof .