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When you picture a warm, welcoming space with character that feels both timeless and unique, chances are Saltillo tile is part of that picture. Handmade from natural clay in Saltillo, Coahuila, Mexico, this rustic flooring has been around for centuries. And it’s just as relevant today as it was in old haciendas and mission-style homes of the past.
Saltillo tile isn’t just another flooring option. Each piece is shaped by hand, baked by the sun, and finished in traditional kilns, giving it natural variations in color, texture, and size. That means no two tiles are ever alike, and that’s exactly what makes them special.
In this Ultimate Guide to Saltillo Tile Flooring, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know before making a decision: what Saltillo tile is, how it’s made, design options, installation tips, maintenance requirements, and even the pros and cons.
By the end, you’ll know if Saltillo is the right fit for your next project — whether you’re reimagining your kitchen, upgrading a patio, or giving your whole home a rustic-modern refresh.
- What is Saltillo Tile Flooring?
- How Are Saltillo Tiles Made?
- What Shapes & Sizes are available in salitillo Tile?
- What Colors of saltillo tile can you choose?
- What Design Styles Work Best with Saltillo Tile?
- How Much Does Saltillo Tile Cost?
- How Do You Install Saltillo Tile?
- Mexican Saltillo Random Facts & Myths?
- Let's Talk Tile
What is Saltillo Tile Flooring?
Saltillo tile is most commonly used for floors, but its versatility extends well beyond that. You’ll often see it incorporated into:
- Architectural details (fountains, columns, garden features)
- Indoor flooring (kitchens, living rooms, entryways, bathrooms)
- Outdoor spaces (patios, courtyards, pool surrounds)
- Accent features (fireplaces, stair risers, wall coverings)
Because it blends rustic warmth with timeless design, Saltillo tile pairs beautifully with styles ranging from Spanish and Mediterranean to Southwestern and modern rustic. It brings an inviting, old-world feel to any project while still fitting seamlessly into contemporary homes.
Pictures of Mexican Floor Tiles
Is Saltillo Tile the Same as Terracotta Tile?
How Are Saltillo Tiles Made?
One of the reasons Saltillo tile stands apart from other flooring options is the way it’s made. Every tile is still produced using traditional, handcrafted methods that have been passed down for generations. This artisanal process ensures that each piece carries its own character — no two tiles are ever exactly alike.
Here’s how Saltillo tile comes to life:
- Clay sourcing – Natural clay is dug from riverbeds around Saltillo, Coahuila. This clay is prized for its mineral content and workability.
- Hand-molding – Craftsmen press and shape the clay into wooden molds, often by hand or foot, giving the tiles their slightly irregular edges and surfaces.
- Sun-drying – The molded tiles are laid out in the open air to dry under the hot Mexican sun. This step creates unique color variations and surface textures.
- Kiln firing – Once hardened, the tiles are stacked in large, traditional kilns (often dug into the ground) and fired for up to 24 hours. The firing process locks in durability while deepening the warm terracotta tones.
- Finishing – After cooling, some tiles remain unsealed for a lighter, more natural look, while others are treated with penetrating sealers to enhance color and durability. Glazing is also available for projects that call for a more polished finish.
If it’s not handmade, it’s not authentic Saltillo tile. The result? Tiles that carry the marks of their environment and the hands that made them. It’s a process that values craftsmanship over mass production. And it’s why Saltillo tile has such a distinct, authentic character that you won’t find in machine-made alternatives.
Photos of Saltillo Tile Manufacturing
Mexican families create these tiles by hand in an outdoor setting. When we refer to “large” producers, we mean a consortium of families who pass along skills and knowledge from one generation to the next. This is authentic artisan craftsmanship.
Furthermore, when inclement weather strikes Saltillo, Mexico, it impacts production speed. As an illustration, producers must plan kiln-firing around rainstorms. Otherwise, they risk the loss of entire kilns of flooring if a significant storm occurs during the firing process.
⇒ Pro Tip: Due to weather and handcrafted product variables, allow ample lead time when considering Saltillo tile flooring for your next project.
What Shapes & Sizes are available in salitillo Tile?
One of the best things about Saltillo tile is its versatility. While many people picture the classic square terracotta tile, Saltillo is available in a wide range of shapes and sizes — from simple to decorative — allowing you to create a truly custom look for your home.
Standard Shapes
These are the most popular and widely used Saltillo tile shapes:
- Square – The classic choice, available in multiple sizes (from 8” up to 24”).
- Rectangle – Perfect for subway-style layouts, herringbone patterns, or plank effects.
- Hexagon – A bold, geometric option that adds dimension to any space.
- Octagon with Inserts – Often paired with small accent tiles for a traditional Spanish look.
Decorative Shapes
For homeowners and designers looking for a standout feature, Saltillo also comes in unique patterns that add elegance and character:
- San Felipe (Arabesque) – A curvy, flowing pattern with a Mediterranean flair.
- Fleur de Lis – Classic and ornate, perfect for traditional spaces.
- Riviera Pattern – A combination of San Felipe and Fleur de Lis tiles for intricate layouts.
- Star & Cross – A timeless design that creates stunning repeating patterns.
- Botella or Rhombus – Distinctive shapes that add variety and personality.
Choosing the Right Size
Saltillo tiles range from small accents (4”–6”) to large-format tiles (18”–24”). The size you choose impacts the overall look:
- Smaller tiles create more grout lines and visual texture, ideal for rustic or traditional spaces.
- Larger tiles give a cleaner, more modern look with fewer grout lines, making a room feel more open.
Whether you want a subtle, understated floor or a bold, decorative centerpiece, the variety of Saltillo tile shapes and sizes means you can tailor your project to match your style.
Saltillo Tile Colors
Saltillo Tile Shapes
What Colors of saltillo tile can you choose?
While Saltillo tile is known for its classic terracotta look, homeowners today have more color options than ever before. Thanks to variations in clay, firing methods, and finishes, Saltillo can complement everything from a traditional Spanish-style home to a sleek modern interior.
Traditional Terracotta Tones
The natural clay produces warm shades that range from:
- Reds & Oranges – The most iconic Saltillo look, adding warmth and vibrancy.
- Earthy Browns – Deeper tones that ground a space and add richness.
- Golden Yellows – Softer hues that brighten up rustic spaces.
- Light Creams & Pastels – Found in unsealed tiles, offering a lighter, more subtle feel.
Specialty Finishes
Beyond natural terracotta, Saltillo can be treated to create unique looks:
- Manganese Saltillo – Fired with manganese oxide, these tiles feature darker browns, charcoals, and variegated patterns for a more modern or transitional style.
- Antique Saltillo – Tiles are treated to create a weathered, time-worn look with muted colors.
- Spanish Mission Red – A rich, deep red tone reminiscent of old mission churches and haciendas.
Glazed Saltillo – A glossy finish that enhances color saturation, adds sheen, and provides extra protection.
Glazed Tile Colors
Glazed Tile Patterns
Sealed vs. Unsealed Saltillo Tile?
- Sealed Saltillo brings out deeper, richer colors and makes maintenance easier.
- Unsealed Saltillo offers softer pastel shades, but requires 3-5 coats of sealing after installation to protect the tile.
⇒ Related: Check out these 5 Things (Not) to do with Saltillo Tile Floors.
Is There Ever A Time To Purchase Unsealed Tile? Yes!
Buy Unsealed Saltillo Tile for projects that require custom colors. Unsealed tile can be stained or glazed for specific projects or to match up to older Saltillo tile floors. This is a go-to technique when new flooring must be modified to match an older, existing Saltillo tile floor.
So, as you can see, you have a lot of color options. Whether you’re looking to create a sun-drenched Mediterranean patio, a cozy Southwestern kitchen, or a contemporary rustic living space, our wide palette of Saltillo tile colors allows you to select a finish that perfectly matches your vision.
What Design Styles Work Best with Saltillo Tile?
One of the reasons Saltillo tile has remained popular for centuries is its ability to adapt. While it’s rooted in tradition, this tile works beautifully across a wide variety of design styles — from old-world haciendas to modern rustic lofts.
Rustic & Southwestern
Saltillo tile is a natural fit for Southwestern, rustic, and farmhouse styles. Its earthy tones and hand-made imperfections bring warmth and authenticity to spaces filled with natural wood, wrought iron, and stone accents.
Mediterranean & Spanish Revival
In Mediterranean and Spanish Revival homes, Saltillo is almost a design essential. Think white stucco walls, arched doorways, and terracotta floors that glow in the sunlight. Decorative patterns like San Felipe or Star & Cross tiles elevate these spaces with timeless elegance.
Hacienda & Old World Charm
For those who love the romantic look of Mexican haciendas or Tuscan villas, Saltillo tile creates instant character. Pair it with rustic wood beams, clay plaster walls, and ornate ironwork to complete the vibe.
Modern Rustic & Transitional
Saltillo isn’t just for traditional homes. Larger-format Saltillo tiles with smoother edges and sealed finishes work well in modern rustic or transitional spaces. They bring warmth to otherwise clean, minimalist interiors — blending old and new seamlessly.
Indoor vs. Outdoor Applications
- Indoors: Kitchens, living rooms, dining rooms, bathrooms, and entryways.
- Outdoors: Patios, courtyards, walkways, and pool decks. Saltillo tile naturally stays cool underfoot, making it especially comfortable for sunny climates.
No matter your style, Saltillo tile adds a touch of warmth and authenticity that few other flooring options can match. It’s versatile enough to be the star of the show or to complement other natural materials in your design
Want to explore ideas for your project?
Let’s Talk Tile
How Much Does Saltillo Tile Cost?
One of the most common questions homeowners ask is: “How much does Saltillo tile flooring cost?” The answer depends on a few key factors, but overall, Saltillo remains one of the most affordable handmade flooring options available.
Typical Price Range
- Standard Saltillo tile: $3–$10 per square foot, depending on size and finish.
- Glazed Saltillo tile: Around $12–$14 per square foot, since glazing adds labor and materials.
- Decorative shapes/patterns: Slightly more expensive than standard squares due to the added craftsmanship.
Factors That Affect Pricing
Several variables influence the final price of your project:
- Tile size – Larger tiles typically cost more than smaller ones.
- Shape/pattern – Decorative shapes like San Felipe or Star & Cross add to the price.
- Finish – Pre-sealed or glazed tiles are more expensive but can save time and effort later.
- Quantity & overage – Always order extra to account for cuts, borders, and breakage. A good rule of thumb:
- 15% overage for standard square/rectangle tiles
- 20% overage for decorative shapes
- 30% overage for large-scale projects
⇒ Pro Tip: Measure, measure, and measure again.
Cost-Saving Tips
Buy pre-sealed tiles to reduce installation labor and long-term maintenance costs.
Plan ahead for overage — running short mid-project can be costly.
Work with experienced suppliers (like Rustico) who can help you choose the right tile for your budget and project needs.
When compared to other premium flooring options — like natural stone or hardwood — Saltillo tile offers exceptional value. You’re getting a handmade, authentic product with centuries of tradition behind it, often for less than the cost of machine-made alternatives.
What Can You Expect With Shipping & Delivery Of Saltillo Tile?
Freight shipping is the best method for Mexican Saltillo flooring, and Rustico ships to anywhere in the world. If a pallet of tile is packaged correctly and handled by a professional freight carrier, it will arrive in good condition. A few broken or chipped tiles may be present upon arrival. That’s normal and expected with a shipment of clay tile. So, don’t discard them. Use those few tiles as cuts in the installation.
Remember, some waste is allowed as part of the overage you purchase. It’s unrealistic to expect a freight shipment of Saltillo tile not to have a small amount of waste.
How Do You Install Saltillo Tile?
Because Saltillo tile is handmade and slightly irregular, installation takes more care than with machine-made ceramic or porcelain tile. The unique shapes and natural variations are part of its charm, but they also require an experienced touch to get right. We recommend using a reputable tile installer.
Here are a few tips to safeguard the tile-setting process.
- 1. Use appropriate installation materials.
- 2. Prep your subfloor. Crack prevention and waterproofing membranes tremendously reduce ongoing maintenance. Also, these materials mitigate potential installation mistakes.
- 3. A high-quality thinset is a must. Thinset must have enough strength and flexibility properties to bond strongly to tile or stone with size and thickness variations. Don’t use cheap thinset. No one wants tiles popping up after the fact.
- 4. Buy inexpensive grout. That’s right—save money here. Regular mortar mix is traditional grout for Mexican floor tiles. Some other options for colored grout include sanded grout. You can also add a concrete stain to the mortar mix for custom coloring.
- 5. Invest in the best topcoat sealer available. Quality topcoat sealer protects Saltillo tile flooring and grout from scratches and stains. Plus, it makes cleaning easier!
- 6. Clean Saltillo tile flooring with diluted chemicals or steam to preserve the lifespan of the topcoat sealer.
⇒ Related: This is our list of Recommended Installation Materials for Saltillo tile flooring.
⇒ Related: Read specific instructions about How to Install Saltillo Tile on wood and concrete subfloors.
Mexican Saltillo Random Facts & Myths?
We’re in the home stretch!
There are myths and random facts about Saltillo tile flooring that you need to know.
- Fact: Saltillo tile goes by many names, including Mexican tile, Terracotta tile, Spanish tile, Mexican pavers, Lincoln Tile, Southwest tile… and my favorite, Saltilly-O tile.
- Myth: Saltillo tile has painted stripes. Nope, that’s not accurate. While there are stripes on some tiles, these are a result of heat temperature combined with a tile’s placement in the kiln.
⇒ Pro Tip: If you don’t like the stripes, that’s ok. Consider installing them anyway because they blend into the floor’s overall look of color variation. But, if you decide against installing striped tiles, buy an ample amount of overage.
- Myth: Saltillo tile is soft. That’s not accurate because geography matters! For example, the riverbeds of Saltillo, Coahuila, represent the most durable clay in the world. The kiln firing process and multiple coats of penetrating sealer fortify an already durable clay. Saltillo tile flooring is very durable terracotta.
- Fact: It’s impossible to have complete consistency of color in this handmade Mexican tile. It’s natural clay, so color variations exist. Always.
⇒ Pro Tip: If you desire a consistently colored Saltillo tile floor, you have two options. 1) Buy enough overage to sort colors. 2) Apply stain to customize unsealed tiles.
- Myth: Saltillo tile is high maintenance. Properly sealing terracotta floors can reduce maintenance. High-quality sealers have lifespans of up to 10-15 years.
- Myth: Saltillo tile breaks easily. Once again, this isn’t true. The flooring is exceptionally durable. Even more so, with proper installation and maintenance, it outlasts lifetimes.
- Myth: Paw prints are a sign of good luck. I’m not sure if this is a myth or valid. Either way, random animals (dogs, chickens, cats, pigs) roam the fields where Saltillo tile dries in the sun. Folklore indicates that anyone with paw print tiles is destined for good luck.
- Fact: Most importantly, Saltillo tile is AFFORDABLE! It’s known to be a low-cost flooring option. And the low cost is not a tradeoff in quality because, as you’ve learned… it’s also excellent quality flooring!
In summary, reading this article will teach you all about Saltillo tile flooring.
Do you know someone considering Saltillo tile flooring for their project? Share this article with them!
What is the best sealer for a shiny finish?
Hi Howard – Our TerraNano and Crest Sealers are both available in a gloss finish. TerraNano has a 10-15 year lifespan whereas Crest has a 3-5 year lifespan. Someone from our team will reach out to you today via email to gather a few more details so we can send a price estimate for your flooring area.
Hi, Melanie. There’s a photo near the end of this page that notes 16×16 tiles in the pic. The tiles appear rectangular. Is that a result of a camera lense elongation, or do you truly have rectangular tiles? And what are the dimensions—8”x16” ?
Hi Stef – Great question! Those are, in fact, 16×16 Square tiles but the camera angle makes them appear elongated. That said, we manufacture and distribute many Saltillo Tile Shapes and Sizes including rectangles. The most common sizes for rectangles are 4×8, 6×12, and 8×16. If you’d like a price estimate for your project, just give us a call or Request a Quote!
Hi Melanie,
We have the white washed Saltillo tiles that were big in early nineties . They have a pinkish beige cast.
We maintained them twice a year . The area by our island and refrigerator is worn badly . If we were to remove the portion around the island are there any complimentary materials that would work .
Do you ever recommend stripping the tiles repairing and recoloring ?
These tiles are not only in kitchen but run they to family room
And main entrance and foyer
Hi Wendy – all great questions! My very best advice is to find a local tile restoration/repair company who can physically come to your home to assess. There are times to strip Saltillo tile but it’s a tricky process which is best done by a professional. And it’s difficult (if not impossible) to get an “exact” match by installing a new Saltillo tile next to a tile that is 20-30 years old. In my experience, a reputable painter is a great resource as someone who is knowledgable about colors/stains/sealers. In an ideal situation, you may be able to buy unsealed Saltillo tile and have a painter stain/coat those tiles to match up to the existing tiles. But you have to decide what to do with those tiles to freshen them up first! Hope that helps!
Great tips for tile installation i would like to recommend this post to my worker
Thanks Mike – check back often for more tile installation tips and techniques!
We purchased a sealer from a local tile company. We stripped and cleaned with a nano scrub. Then re sealed using a seal and finish both by aqua mix. Some of the floor / tiles are sticky. What went wrong and how do I fix? Thx! Margie Newell
Hi Margie – No fun! We rarely recommend stripping Saltillo tiles because it’s complex and not often done properly. It’s not for the faint of heart! You could have 2 issues going on (possibly a combination of both). 1) If any stripping chemical (even trace amounts) is left in the clay tile, it will delaminate the sealer (i.e. prevent it from sticking to the tile properly). Or 2) The sealer may have been applied too thick. I’m not a huge fan of over-the-counter sealers because they’re not super durable and don’t last long. In your situation, I’d reach out to the company who did the project and troubleshoot a fix with them. Or, if you did the work personally, reach out to the sealer manufacturer to troubleshoot a fix. But regardless, if any stripping chemical is absorbed into the clay and not removed, you’ll struggle with any sealer. You have to get to the source of the problem causing the problem.
Melanie- I am in the process of stripping off a 20+ year old marine varnish, that was wonderful but no longer EPA available, from my super unsealed saltillo tile throughout the interior home floors. My questions refer to a sealant and top coat. I am leaning towards a “lacquer” sealant vs a “water based” sealant. I am looking for a high gloss and richer looking finish. Any opinions? Also I am looking
at your Terranano gloss finish as a top coat for great durablity and shine. Again your input would be
appreciated.
I am in the San Diego area. Do you have any connections in my area? Thank you Donna
Hi Donna, Someone from our team will reach out to you today via the email address that you provided. 🙂
I live inHuntsville, Al and trying desperately to find Saltillo tiles to use in a kitchen and entrance area. I need 295 square feet. There is no local distributor. I am interested in 8×8 sealed traditional tiles….any suggestions?
Hi Sharon – Great news! We ship worldwide. Someone from my team will reach out to you today via the email address that your provided. Thanks for reaching out!
I installed the saltillo tile on my front entry deck 15 years ago. it was sealed after the installation. The sealer deteriorated after a few years and I had it removed and resealed. But apparently moisture got into the tile, and shortly after the installation, effervescent appeared. I have just had the sealer removed the second time, and it looks so good, I’m asking do I have to seal it at all. I live in Florida, and the tile is partially exposed to direct sun and the rest is under roof.
Hi Louis – Great question! First, Saltillo tile does not have to be sealed. But, without a sealer, the floor will easily stain with any spills, dirt, mud, or weather elements. If your concrete slab was properly prepared with a water-proofing membrane, then you shouldn’t have efflorescence from the slab. (check out How to Install Saltillo tile for these tips).
Left unsealed, you will continue to have efflorescence over time due to moisture absorbing into the tile. This may be able to be cleaned with an acid-cleaner (just test first). Alternatively, seal the floor properly. That means that you’ll need to apply enough coats of sealer to the clay (AND grout!) to prevent water from absorbing. When you do this correctly, your issues will be mitigated. (Again, assuming the concrete slab was properly treated with a moisture barrier as is recommended for outdoor installations. As an example, our presealed tiles have 5+ coats of penetrating sealer coated into the clay.
How do you know if your tile is sealed adequately? Pour a little water in several areas of the tile floor (and grout). When it stands on top without absorbing, your tile (and grout) is sealed.
Here are a couple of resources for you –
Saltillo Tile Maintenance & Cleaning Tips – Check out the TerraNano Sealer! It’s our best quality sealer (not the cheapest but it’s the best)
Why Buy Sealed Saltillo Tile
How to Lay Saltillo Tile on a Concrete Slab
Hi. My condo building has outdoor step approaches which lead to a landing at each unit entry. The steps and landings are tiled with satillo. On the step runs the tiles have three tread grooves/lines that run near the stair edge. We’re these grooves/treads added using a tile saw at tile of installation or is there such a thing as a tile that comes with these lines fabricated in the clay. Thanks.
Hi Dave – It’s hard to say without seeing a photo. You’re welcome to email a photo of what you need to match – info (at) rusticotile (dot) com
Hi. What are your thoughts about installing Saltillo tiles on a raised deck/stairs in cold climates (near Chicago)? Any precautions above and beyond the normal ones? I plan to use Ditra on top of 5/8″ treated plywood on 16″ center joists, then the 12×12 unsealed Saltillo tiles. We have approx 150 left over from our kitchen project from 22 years ago. My wife wants to seal at least 3-times, and then use a oil-based polyurethane as top sealer Once installed, the area underneath the deck/stairs will be “sealed”, in a sense, because it will be closed-in with no access. Thanks!
Yes, precautions… ultimately, get advice from your local flooring contractor specific to your space. Generally speaking… Ditra is great for the waterproofing membrane. But don’t install unsealed tiles. It’s far better to install presealed tiles followed by a high-quality topcoat sealer (focusing on the grout lines – make those waterproof!). If your only choice is installing unsealed tile, you must soak those in many coats of sealer to be properly protected. It can get expensive (which is why the value of buying/installing presealed tiles is typically so much better). Good luck with your project!
I am buying a 40 year old home that is 90% Saltillo. I had a home 20 years ago with Saltillo, and felt it was rather high maintenance. My question is whether there a a sealant I can use that lasts longer than 2 to 3 years, which was my experience 20 years ago?
Hi Norman – YES! Sealers have advanced in technology considerably in the past 20 years. Our TerraNano sealer has a 10-15 year lifespan. We also like our Crest Sealer with a 3-5 year lifespan. You can learn more about these in our Saltillo Tile FAQs.