Popular Types of Spanish Tiles: Saltillo, Cement, Talavera Tile

The Number One Choice for Spanish Floor Tiles: Terracotta Saltillo

This is one of the most common types of Spanish tiles for flooring. These tiles are crafted by hand using the finest natural clay found in the riverbeds of Saltillo, Coahuila, Mexico. They boast warm, earthy tones and distinct variations in both color and texture.

In fact, Saltillo tiles are a popular choice for a variety of design styles, including:

• Rustic
• Mediterranean
• Southwestern
• Modern

They are durable tiles, suitable for both indoor and outdoor spaces. With proper sealant and top coating, they will serve you well for many decades. You won’t find a more striking, iconic Spanish tile choice for home terracotta flooring.

Saltillo tiles are available in a range of sizes and shapes. Try a Star Cross or Hexagon pattern; throw in some decorative inserts; go for the large 24×24-inch tile size for added drama in a large space. You get the idea – you’ve got options.

After you decide on Spanish floor tile shapes and sizes, you’ll also have your pick of five luxurious colors and finishes:

Saltillo Tile Colors & Finishes

1. Traditional: Our best-value finish comes in a range of appealing Terracotta shades, from red and orange to gold and yellow.
2. Manganese: Available in a range of neutral, brown, and Terracotta hues. You’ll often see some black swirling mixed in with the Terracotta, creating an elegant, marbled appearance.
3. Spanish Mission Red: A striking range of darker Terracotta colors, achieved with our Mission Red dye added to the penetrating sealer. If you’re looking for a tile in a classic Spanish-style color, this is the one for you.
4. Antique Saltillo: We call this the Old-World style Saltillo tile. Not only does it showcase the rust and Terracotta range of tile colors, but it has a unique, hand-textured finish. This tile is a champion for wet, humid, and outdoor areas.
5. Custom Saltillo: Your space is unique, your tastes are unique, and we’re up to the challenge of creating the perfect tile to match your style. We offer custom glazing, custom texturizing, and so much more.

 The combinations of patterns, shapes, and colors you can make with Saltillo tiles are nearly endless. In fact, these are timeless Spanish tile trends.

Decorative Cement Tile for Kitchens & Bathrooms

Equally popular types of Spanish tiles are Cement tiles, also known as encaustic tiles. Interestingly, they’ve been around since the late 19th century and are known for their durability, versatility, and unique patterns. Our experienced artisans in Mexico create the highest-quality Cement tiles in the biz.

Each tile is:

• Handcrafted
• Durable
• Waterproof
• Created in the exact design specifications of our customers
• 100% “green” (natural ingredients = non-pollutant)

Also, cement tiles are available in various unique colors and patterns, from bold and graphic to subtle and sophisticated. So use them in a variety of ways to add interest and personality to any space.

• Since they are impervious to moisture, they are a superior option for bathrooms, showers, and patios.
• They make a killer accent wall, combining bold colors and texture for a striking appearance.
• Have you ever considered Decorative Cement tiles for your tabletop? Consider it. They’re strong and unique, and they’ll bring fresh personality to your family’s eating surface.
• But also, don’t forget Spanish tile flooring: these tiles can withstand the elements in high style.

Decorative Cement tiles can be used in a variety of ways to create a truly unique and personalized space. So with their timeless beauty and durability, Cement tiles are an unbeatable choice for any design style. Compare Cement Tile vs. Porcelain Tile for more information on the timeless beauty of Cement.

Philadelphia Pattern in Concrete Bathroom Tile

Spanish Style – Roseton Pattern

Thames with Riviera Pattern in Manganese Saltillo Flooring

Cement Tile Backsplash – Espanola Pattern

Spanish Style Homes with Talavera Tiles

Now, if you’re looking to channel the history and beauty of traditional Hacienda or Spanish-style décor, look no further than Talavera tiles. These beloved Mexican ceramic tiles can trace their roots all the way back to the 1400s in Spain. Also, older variations of Talavera tile have been found from centuries before that, in Arab, Italian, Chinese, and Philippine cultures.

They are:

• Handmade
• Hand-painted
• Affordable
• Long-lasting
• Intricately designed
• Vibrantly colored
• Famous for their unique texture, size, and color variations

Types of Spanish Tiles

Manganese Saltillo with Talavera Accents

Mexican Tile Stairs with Saltillo & Talavera

One of the wonderful things about Talavera tiles is their compatibility with other design elements of the home. For example, here are five ideas to get you started:  

1. Kitchen Backsplash: Add a pattern of colorful Talavera tiles to spice up a neutral kitchen environment – while protecting your walls from splashes and stains.
2. Outdoor patio: Create a backyard oasis with beautiful hand-glazed Talavera tile flooring.
3. Stair risers & coping: Create a unique statement with Talavera tiles in your entryway or on your staircase.
4. Bathrooms: Talavera tiles can be used to create a stunning accent wall in the bathroom. They’re also the perfect complement to your vanity or bathtub.
5. Fireplace surrounds: Bring some history and pizazz to your family fireplace with bright, authentic Talavera tiles. They complement other design elements in the space for a warm, cohesive look.

Simply put, Talavera tiles are a timeless design element that carries over into modern homes with ease. Saltillo tiles are crafted by hand using the finest natural clay found in the riverbeds of Saltillo, Coahuila, Mexico. These tiles are famous for their warm and earthy tones, as well as their distinctive variations in both color and texture.