Handmade Mexican Talavera Tile dates back to 15th century at Talavera De La Reina, Spain come in. Many of the colors, designs and dazzling patterns of this decorative clay tile can be found on cultures be partial to Chinese and Middle East, which most likely originated from 8th-century Arab countries. By the 16th century, Italian craftsmen started using diverse glazes, generating a lot of diverse 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 native Mexican artisans and by doing so, they were proficient to incorporate much more color and designs because of the Mexican culture richness.
Installation Tips
Because of the nature of Talavera tiles being handmade, diminutive imperfections are to be expected. This restrictions want 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 exhaustive, if in mistrust check with a professional Talavera tile installer ahead of starting your project.
- Apply a lean layer of thinset/cement on the surface to be tiled.
- Place a diminutive quantity of thinset/cement in the middle of the back of the tile. This will present the middle portion plenty support to prohibit the tile from cracking under pressure.
- Set the tile in place. Spacers are to be used with caution because of the diminutive size variations. Installer should check if the tiles are squared plenty to employ them or by a long shot employ 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.
- Allow at least twenty minutes for the grout to xeric. A “haze” will launch to appear.
- Spend a clean sponge to wipe away excess grout.
- Allow 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 visit the website.