The Ultimate Guide to Terracotta

While trends come and go, terracotta remains a lasting element in all corners of the architectural design world.

Terracotta tiles prevail as one of the most impactful flooring mediums in modern architecture, bolstered by the innovative shapes of terracotta tiles that are now available.

Terracotta’s role in architecture has expanded significantly, serving not just as flooring but also as a flexible design material. Terracotta breeze blocks are a prime example, used for creating decorative partitions, exterior walls, shaded enclosures, and dramatic building facades.

Esteemed globally by architects for its distinctive color and texture variations, durability and design flexibility, terracotta is a proven material that has shaped architecture for thousands of years — and will likely continue for thousands more.

This comprehensive guide exists to inspire, educate and help Architects, Designers, Specifiers, Contractors and other professionals make informed decisions on using terracotta tiles and terracotta breeze blocks.

Terracotta Tile Design Options

Terracotta tiles offer a highly versatile design scope, with a wide range of forms available at DDS including Square, Rectangle, Hexagon, Irregular, Terracotta Mosaic and Octagon. From a design perspective, terracotta supports a wide range of layout strategies, from classic grid installations to more expressive geometries. With more distinctive shapes such as Chevron, Diamond, Lantern, and Trapezoid, designers can specify endless patterns, ideal for feature walls, boutique interiors, or branded environments.

Terracotta is available in natural matte, textured, or glossy finishes to suit your project's design scheme, lighting strategy, slip resistance needs, and desired tactile.

Whether pursuing a restrained, monolithic field or a richly patterned installation, terracotta offers design professionals an extensive toolkit - form, finish, and tone. From hospitality and retail to institutional and commercial spaces, terracotta enables timeless yet progressive design outcomes.

Terracotta Breeze Blocks

Terracotta breeze blocks, also known as privacy screen or partition blocks, transcend the ordinary wall. Commonly used as privacy screens, space division, partitions, or ventilated façades, these blocks reduce solar gain, allow cross-ventilation, and provide privacy without fully enclosing space. Terracotta breeze blocks as an architectural element offer climatic performance with aesthetic appeal, making them ideal for commercial projects seeking passive environmental control. 

In addition to performance, breeze blocks offer strong visual identity. Available in a range of patterns and textures, they introduce depth, shadow play, and regional character to exteriors and interiors. Discover DDS's range of designer terracotta breeze blocks, more than 15 different unique designs in the Amparo range.

Tinted or Pigmented Terracotta Tiles

If you are looking for a colored or tinted terracotta tile, the Miro Terra Tintura range by DDS is a series of handmade Spanish terracotta tiles made using all-natural elements fired in kilns fueled wholly by almond shell biomass, then stained with oils and pigments - not glazed. Miro Terracotta tiles are available sealed or unsealed. Suitable for interior spaces, not recommended for outdoor use in any climate.

Glazed Terracotta Tiles

Glazed terracotta tiles feature a liquid glass coating (glaze) baked onto its surface, which acts as a protective coating that often adds a shiny or glossy resistance to stains and moisture.

A wide spectrum of glaze finishes are available, from bold colors to saturated hues, or transparent glazes that preserve the natural character of terracotta tile beneath, enhancing the texture and color without obscuring its authenticity. If a colored glazed tile is what you are seeking, consider the Monte Estella collection, a series of vibrant handmade terracotta tiles with plenty of depth.

Unglazed Terracotta Tiles

Unglazed terracotta refers to the natural terracotta tiles or breeze blocks that are untreated, not sealed or glazed. For this reason, unglazed terracotta tiles generally require sealing to achieve the same level of protection as a glazed tile.

Architects may specify unglazed terracotta for several reasons. Firstly, to preserve the rustic and organic appearance of baked earth. Secondly, to have more control over the sealing result, given the various types of sealers available for terracotta.

Terracotta tiles may be sealed with impregnating sealers, enhancing sealers, or topical sealers, each offering different benefits and appearances. Impregnating sealers penetrate the tile and protect it from within, while enhancing sealers add depth and color to the tile. Topical sealers create a protective layer on the surface, offering a range of finishes from matte to glossy.

Color Variation in Terracotta Tiles

Terracotta tiles naturally vary in color due to differences in clay composition and firing conditions, producing a palette of reds, oranges, browns, beige and ochres. Some terracotta tiles are more uniform in color, offering a consistent result, while others feature high variation, with dynamic shifts in tone across each tile, adding warmth and character. Designers need to choose based on project intent. Note: Glazing or sealing can further enhance or deepen these tones, offering even more control over the final aesthetic.

Technical Performance of Terracotta

Thermal Properties

Terracotta tiles have excellent thermic performance, making them ideal for regulating indoor temperatures in commercial environments. Their high heat retention helps absorb daytime warmth and release it gradually, contributing to energy efficiency. The thermal performance of terracotta is especially advantageous in high-traffic lobbies, atriums, and courtyards, where thermal stability reduces HVAC loads.

Durability

The durability of terracotta varies from tile to tile, and is determined by a range of factors including scratch resistance, water absorption, chemical resistance, breaking strength, tile thickness, and integrity of installation. DDS recommends specifiers to review available tech specs to assess suitability for application.

In most cases, both glazed and unglazed terracotta tiles deliver excellent durability for commercial projects. With compressive strength comparable to other dense ceramics, most terracotta tiles supplied by DDS are suitable for interior and exterior environments including retail spaces, hospitality venues, and high foot traffic spaces. When properly installed and sealed, terracotta tiles maintain their structural integrity for many decades, offering both aesthetic longevity and low lifecycle costs.

Feel free to consult DDS if you would like assistance determining suitability of products for your project.

Compatibility with Underfloor Heating

Terracotta tiles have a high thermal mass, which means they can absorb and store heat, releasing it slowly even after the heating system is turned off. Terracotta tiles perform well with underfloor heating systems, allowing rapid heat transfer and extended heat retention.

Sustainability Performance

Terracotta supports sustainable design goals and biophilic design principles through its natural composition, long service life, and low maintenance requirements. The production process of terracotta tiles is relatively low-impact, using clay, a renewable resource. Certain terracotta tiles can make a positive impact on lowering a building’s embodied carbon footprint and gaining LEED or WELL certification credits.

Fire Resistance

Terracotta tile is inherently non-combustible, offering excellent fire resistance with zero flame spread and smoke development. Classified as a Class A material under ASTM E84 (Standard Test Method for Surface Burning Characteristics), it contributes to passive fire protection in commercial buildings.

Acoustic Performance

While terracotta is a hard surface material with inherently low sound absorption, its acoustic performance can be effectively enhanced when paired with acoustic underlayments or installed in spaces with sound-dampening elements (such as wall panels or ceiling treatments), terracotta contributes to balanced acoustics without compromising durability or aesthetics. This makes it suitable for commercial settings like galleries, retail environments, and lobbies where both visual impact and acoustic control are important.

Building Code Compliance

Terracotta tile is widely compliant with U.S. building codes when manufactured and installed in accordance with industry standards. It aligns with the International Building Code (IBC), particularly for fire resistance, slip resistance (per ANSI A326.3), and structural load requirements when used as flooring or cladding. Products meeting ANSI A137.1 (Specifications for Ceramic Tile) ensure consistent performance for commercial applications. Architects and specifiers can confidently detail terracotta in projects requiring code-conforming materials that perform under scrutiny.

Frost Resistance

According to the Tile Council of North America's Product Performance Testing Laboratory, a widely accepted "rule of thumb is that tiles with a water absorption greater than 3% are not generally suited for outdoor freeze-thaw conditions". Tiles that have a very low water absorption, or E<0.5% are considered to offer the highest frost resistance.

While this guideline holds true for many tile types, there are exceptions. Certain tiles with absorption rates above 3%, such as some terracotta products, can still perform well outdoors when properly installed and maintained. With the use of appropriate waterproofing membranes, installation techniques, and appropriate sealants, some terracotta tiles can exhibit resistance to freeze-thaw damage and efflorescence, making them suitable for exterior applications like balconies, entryways, and pool surrounds.

Installation Guidelines

Due to the natural composition of terracotta, proper installation, cleaning, and sealing by a qualified tile contractor is strongly recommended. 

• The substrate must be determined by your contractor. 
• Hiring a knowledgeable tile contractor with experience working with handmade and porous products is essential. 
• Protecting the floor during and after installation—including proper sealing, is critical. 
• Do not apply masking tape directly to the surface of terracotta. It will leave a glue residue that absorbs dirt over time. 
• Use only tape designed for clean, glue-free release. 
• Make sure to blend the materials to account for color variations prior to installing. 
• Color variation is one of the inherent qualities of natural terracotta.

Sealing Terracotta Tiles

Proper sealing is critical for protecting the tiles from stains and moisture. Talk to one of DDS Tile’s representatives for advice on the best sealant to be used.

• For pre-stained terracotta, only water-based sealers should be used.
• For glazed terracotta, installation and maintenance follow the same sealing as any standard glazed ceramic tile.
• After the initial installation, make sure the floor is thoroughly washed, clean, and dry.
• Pre-sealing the floor prior to grouting is recommended.
• Grout the floor after pre-sealing.
• After the grouting process is complete, ensure there is no grout or adhesive residue on the surface and that it is clean and dry.
• Final sealing consists of 1 to 3 coats, depending on the type of sealer and the absorption rate of the product.

For more information on sealing, please refer to the DDS Product Guidelines for Terracotta.

Maintenance of Terracotta Tiles

Once installed, terracotta tiles are relatively low maintenance. Regular sweeping and occasional damp mopping with a pH-neutral cleaner are usually sufficient to keep them looking their best.

Terracotta maintenance depends on wear, exposure to cleaning products, and the desired appearance of the floor. It also varies based on how frequently the owner is willing to reapply maintenance and sealer products.

Cleaning Tips for Terracotta Tile Flooring

• Do not use acids, vinegar, or ammonia containing solutions as they may break down the sealant and permanently stain the terracotta.

• Use neutral cleaners specially formulated for clay surfaces.

• Avoid applying too much water to the surface.

• Change the water or cleaning solution often enough.

• Remove the cleaner or chemical residue until it gets rinsed.

Download Technical Guidelines for Terracotta

Common Questions About Terracotta Tiles

Are Terracotta Tiles Suitable for High-Traffic Areas?

Yes – when properly sealed and maintained, terracotta tiles hold up well in high-traffic areas. Their dense composition and textured surface make them a smart choice for lobbies, corridors, and hospitality environments where durability and warmth are both key.

Can Terracotta Tiles Be Used with Underfloor Heating Systems?

Yes. Terracotta’s natural thermal mass makes it an excellent partner for radiant floor heating. It retains and radiates heat efficiently, making it ideal for comfort-driven design in spas, hotels, or residential amenity spaces.

Is Professional Installation Recommended for Terracotta?

Absolutely. Due to the handmade nature and porosity of terracotta, expert installation is essential for success. We strongly recommend working with an experienced installer familiar with moisture-sensitive materials, proper sealing, and substrate preparation.

How Often Should Terracotta Tiles Be Sealed in Commercial Settings?

In commercial or wet applications, terracotta should typically be sealed upon installation and resealed every 2-3 years, depending on use and exposure. Regular sealing protects against staining, efflorescence, and moisture intrusion.

What Is the Average Cost of Terracotta Flooring?

Prices vary by origin, size, and finish, but most of our terracotta offerings range from $3–$15 per square foot. For large-scale or custom commercial projects, we can work with you to source and price material that meets both design and budget requirements.

Conclusion

If you’re unsure about selecting the right terracotta tile or breeze block for your project, our team is here to help. Whether you're navigating color variation, glaze options, or performance requirements, we offer expert guidance to ensure you make the right specification decisions. DDS Tile provides free samples, detailed technical information, and responsive support to help you move forward with clarity and confidence.

At DDS Tile, we go beyond supplying premium products—we support your project from concept to completion. Our dedicated regional teams deliver tailored design advice, swift pricing, and seamless communication to keep your project on track. Backed by a team of creative, knowledgeable tile specialists, we’re here to help you create spaces that are both visually compelling and built to perform.

How To Request a Free Sample

Simply browse our products in our search browser, select the tile you would like and click the request a sample button.