How to Seal Terracotta Tiles Supplied by Baked Earth
How to Seal Terracotta Tiles Supplied by Baked Earth
Do I Need to Seal Terracotta Tiles?
Yes — unsealed terracotta tiles must be sealed.
Terracotta is a natural clay product and is porous by nature. Without sealing, the tiles can absorb moisture, oils and everyday spills, which may lead to staining.
Correct sealing helps protect the surface, improves durability and makes the floor easier to maintain.
The sealing method you choose will depend on the finished appearance you would like to achieve.
Choosing the Right Finish
- Natural Matt Finish – No Colour Change
If you would like to keep the original natural or pale colour of the terracotta, we recommend using a suitable impregnating stone sealer.
Apply 2–3 coats to help protect the terracotta against staining while maintaining the natural appearance of the clay.
A breathable impregnating sealer does not create a heavy surface coating or significantly change the colour of the tiles.
- Traditional Rustic / Antique Matt Finish
If you prefer a deeper, richer colour and a more traditional rustic appearance, boiled linseed oil and antique wax can be used.
This finish is suitable for indoor use only.
Once the tiles and adhesive bed are completely dry:
• Apply 2–3 coats of boiled linseed oil.
• Allow the oil to absorb and dry between coats.
• Follow with 1–2 coats of antique wax.
This traditional method deepens the natural colour of the terracotta and gives the floor a warm, aged appearance with a natural matt finish.
Always test the treatment on a spare tile first so you can see the finished colour before treating the complete floor.
Additional Protection for Kitchens, Utility Rooms & Higher Traffic Areas
For kitchens, utility rooms, hallways and other higher traffic areas, we recommend applying 1–3 coats of Satin Finish Sealer after the initial impregnating sealer.
This provides additional protection against everyday spills and staining and also makes the floor easier to clean and maintain.
Installation & Sealing Guidance
Before starting, make sure the tiles and adhesive bed are fully dry and cured.
All joints and surfaces should be clean and completely free from dust, dirt, adhesive and other residues.
Always use clean tools when applying sealers, oils or waxes.
For the natural impregnating sealer method, we recommend applying one coat before grouting and two further coats after installation and grouting.
Always test your chosen treatment on a spare or sample tile before applying it to the complete floor. Terracotta is made from natural clay, so porosity and absorption can vary from tile to tile.
Allow each coat to dry properly before applying the next.
Drying and curing times can vary depending on temperature, ventilation, humidity and site conditions, so always follow the product manufacturer’s instructions and your professional installer’s advice.
Keep foot traffic to a minimum for up to one week after the final treatment to allow the floor to fully cure.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you seal Baked Earth terracotta tiles?
For a natural matt finish with little or no colour change, use 2–3 coats of a suitable impregnating stone sealer.
For a traditional darker, rustic finish, apply 2–3 coats of boiled linseed oil followed by 1–2 coats of antique wax. This method is for indoor use only.
Do terracotta tiles need to be sealed?
Yes. Unsealed terracotta is naturally porous and should be properly sealed to help protect it from moisture, oils, dirt and staining.
Will sealing change the colour of terracotta?
It depends on the product used.
A suitable impregnating sealer is designed to maintain the natural appearance of the clay with little or no noticeable colour change.
Boiled linseed oil and antique wax will deepen and darken the colour, giving the terracotta a richer and more traditional appearance.
Can terracotta tiles be sealed before grouting?
Yes. We recommend applying one coat of impregnating sealer before grouting. This helps protect the face of the tile during the grouting process.
Once the installation and grout are completely dry, further coats can then be applied.
How long should I wait before walking on newly sealed terracotta?
Drying times will depend on the products used and site conditions.
We recommend keeping foot traffic to a minimum for up to one week after the final treatment and always following the manufacturer’s curing instructions.
Recommended Products
For our recommended terracotta sealing, finishing and maintenance products, please visit:
https://bakedearth.co.uk/collections/accessories
Please Note
Some Baked Earth terracotta ranges are supplied unsealed and some are available pre-sealed.
Always check the individual product description before applying any additional sealer or treatment.
Terracotta is a natural handmade product. Variations in colour, texture, surface and absorption are normal and are part of the character of a genuine terracotta floor.
Disclaimer
The information provided on this page is intended as general guidance only.
Terracotta is a natural material and results may vary depending on the individual tiles, products used, application method, installation and site conditions.
Always test sealers, oils, waxes and other treatments on a spare or sample tile before treating the full area. Always follow the instructions provided by the manufacturer of the product being used.
Installation and sealing should be carried out by a suitably experienced professional.
Baked Earth cannot accept responsibility for incorrect installation or sealing, the incorrect application or use of sealing products or other third-party products, or any failure to follow the relevant manufacturer’s instructions.
If you are unsure about the suitability or application of any product, please seek advice from the product manufacturer or your professional installer before proceeding.
