Performance Tested – Pre-Sealed Terracotta Tiles

Performance & Durability Assurance

Pre-Sealed Terracotta Tile – 20cm x 20cm x 20mm (20mm Thick)

Material: Natural Clay Terracotta
Finish: Professionally Sealed
(Excludes Saint Martin & Saint Rossa Range)

At Baked Earth, we don’t simply supply terracotta — we assess and test the clay body to ensure it performs in real environments, while retaining the natural warmth and character that makes genuine terracotta timeless.

Moisture Performance – 24 Hour Immersion Test

A sealed sample of the same clay body was fully submerged in water for 24 hours and tested for moisture absorption.

Measured Water Absorption Rate: 5.9%

Professional sealing reduced absorption by approximately 50% compared to the unsealed equivalent, improving moisture resistance while preserving the authentic depth and texture of natural terracotta.

Absorption percentage reflects clay density and is representative of the 20mm production tile.

Extended Sub-Zero Stability Test (Chest Freezer)

To simulate prolonged cold-weather exposure, the sealed clay body sample was:

  • Fully saturated in water (24 hours)

  • Placed inside a chest freezer at approximately -18°C

  • Kept frozen continuously for 30 days

  • Inspected regularly throughout the test period

Result

  • No cracking

  • No surface flaking

  • No edge spalling

  • No visible structural deterioration

The tile retained full structural integrity throughout sustained sub-zero exposure.

What This Means

The 20mm+ thick sealed terracotta tile offers:

  • Strong structural durability

  • Reduced moisture absorption

  • Proven stability under prolonged sub-zero conditions

  • Long-term reliability when professionally installed

Suitable for interior floors and exterior installations where correct installation practices are followed.

Installation Excellence

For optimal long-term performance:

  • Install on a solid concrete base

  • Use full-bed adhesive coverage (no voids beneath tile)

  • Ensure adequate drainage in exterior areas

  • Seal all cut edges

  • Apply an additional coat of quality stone sealer after installation

Correct installation and ongoing maintenance are essential with all natural clay products.

Authentic Material Character

Terracotta is a natural clay product and retains inherent porosity.
It is not vitrified porcelain and performs differently.

When sealed and installed correctly, it delivers enduring durability alongside timeless warmth and depth — suitable for both residential and commercial environments.

Performance assessed in-house for added customer confidence.

Customer Project Videos

Check out our customer project videos to see our products in action.

Customer Project Videos