Difference between terracotta and fired clay tiles for outdoor use

Terracotta literally comes from Italian (baked earth) and is most often used in interior design and landscaping to describe those highly refined pieces that feature that characteristic traditional reddish color and classic earth and salmon tones.

In contrast, the term clay is our traditional way of referring to the original mixture, encompassing a much broader spectrum of finishes, formats, and manufacturing techniques within the popular rustic and Mediterranean style.

The real difference between terracotta tiles isn't just in the name, but in their manufacturing process.At Azulejos Solá, you can find options such as handmade, artisan, farmhouse, and machine-made terracotta tiles for various outdoor projects.

To help you decide, below we explain the options and categories available in our online terracotta tile section so you can choose the one that best suits your project.

1. Handmade Terracotta Tiles

This option represents the pure essence of traditional building techniques. Each piece of clay is handcrafted and naturally dried, which means you won't find two identical tiles. They stand out visually due to their very high shade variation, irregular edges, and rich surface texture. Due to their higher porosity, they require a sealing treatment after installation. With proper care, these handmade terracotta tiles develop a beautiful natural patina that ages gracefully, adding immeasurable aesthetic value to any exterior. 2. Handmade Clay Tiles Handmade clay tiles are ideal for those seeking a direct connection to the earth and a genuine finish, but with slightly more standardized formats than purely handmade tiles. They maintain that rustic and warm appearance that brings so much character to patios and gardens. Like handmade tiles, their water absorption requires the use of specific waterproofing agents to prevent staining.It is an exceptional material for restoring old houses or projects that seek to preserve traditional architecture, allowing for excellent humidity regulation in warm environments.

3. Masía Clay Tiles

Inspired by classic rustic estates, the Masía clay tile format offers proportions and tones designed to recreate large-format historical floors.These pieces provide an unparalleled sense of spaciousness and robustness outdoors.

Although their manufacture respects the traditional spirit, their structural density makes them ideal for withstanding daily foot traffic on terraces.Their charm lies precisely in those natural imperfections that give character to the space, becoming the center of attention.

4. Machine-Made Clay Tiles

If you are passionate about the visual charm of clay, but need far superior technical advantages, machine-made clay is the definitive answer. Also known as cotto/extruded stoneware, it is manufactured using industrial processes. This results in considerably more uniform pieces with smooth or minimalist surfaces. Firing at very high temperatures drastically reduces internal porosity, giving it enormous resistance to frost and sudden temperature changes. Maintaining mechanically cast clay floors is much simpler, making it perfect for areas exposed to the elements.

Making the right decision for your home's exterior involves considering several key factors related to the daily use of the space and the environmental conditions the paving will be subjected to.

• Protective treatments:Always remember that 100% natural clay requires specific protective waxes or oils after installation. If you skip this step, the porous material will quickly absorb liquids, causing irreversible stains.
• Extreme Climate: If you live in a geographical area where winters are very harsh and temperatures drop below freezing, machine-made clay, extruded clay, or porcelain will offer unbeatable resistance to frost damage, far surpassing handmade clay.
• Material Classification: It is vital to remember the clear difference with hydraulic tiles, since the latter, although also very popular in vintage or rustic style decorations, are made from pressed pigmented cement and not fired clay, so they require completely different cleaning products and care techniques.
• Expansion Joints: When installing handmade pieces with irregularities in their edges, the installer must use wider spacers and apply specific exterior grouting mortars that absorb the structural movements caused by changes in temperature.

Why choose Azulejos Solá for your outdoor projects?

At Azulejos Solá, we have been transforming outdoor spaces for a long time, and we want your terrace or garden to be our next big success story.

Working with us means access to authentic materials, rigorously selected to guarantee an impeccable, durable finish full of personality that will elevate the design of your home.

We offer a fast online purchasing process, direct technical advice to answer your questions, and secure shipping to your construction site at a very competitive cost. Give your home that Mediterranean touch you've been looking for, add your tiles to your cart, and we'll take care of the rest.