How to seal Terracotta

Types of Terracotta & Clay Pavers

For the purpose of sealing, Terracotta falls into 2 classes:

• Low Porosity - includes Australian made terracottas & clay pavers.
• High Porosity - includes Mexican Saltillos, Spanish terracottas etc.

Initial Cleaning

• Once the new tiles are laid and grouted it is important to remove all grout and cement residues. This should be done with D-Scale.
• Existing terracotta should be cleaned with D-Grease. A concentrated D-Grease solution will remove most problem stains.
• A special floor-washing machine with liquid suction will produce the best results.
• Ensure floors are rinsed thoroughly after cleaning.
   

Pre-Sealing

• Often tiles will benefit from being sealed prior to grouting (where a penetrating sealer will follow) - this will make it easier to clean off grout residue and will avoid marks from laying.
• High porosity terracotta needs at least one coat of Consolidate (before or after grouting to modify the surface so that the final penetrating sealer will have maximum effect.)
   

Sealing

All of the above sealers can be re-sealed without stripping, if the previous sealer is in sound condition.

Sealers can be applied with a clean cloth, brush or lambswood applicator. Ventilate well.

Do not allow excess Silcopel or Pristine to dry on the surface.
 

Maintenance

We recommend cleaning with warm water and a small amount of a neutral cleaner such as Natural Clean.

Always Test

• Because every type of tile/paver is different we recommend that a small test area is done to ensure that the appearance and protection is satisfactory.
• Allow sealers at least 24 hours to cure before testing.