Terracotta Tile Installation Guide

By following these instructions, you'll ensure that your tiles not only look beautiful but also stand the test of time.
Please read through this guide thoroughly before beginning your installation.

Preparation
Surface Requirements
The surface on which LiLi Terracotta Tiles will be installed must be level, clean, and dry. A wet subfloor can cause sediment to form on tile surfaces, compromising the installation.
LiLi Terracotta Tiles are made from natural materials and wood-fired, exhibiting significant variations in tone. For a visually pleasing and consistent color arrangement, it is advised to perform a dry lay of the tiles on the designated surface before starting the installation.

Materials and Tools
We recommend using an uncoupling membrane, such as Schluter®-DITRA, to prevent cracks caused by shifting foundations.
Use a notched trowel for applying thinset.
A wet saw is recommended for best results when cutting tiles.
Terracotta requires two separate products applied at two different stages - a primer before grouting, and a sealer after grouting. Do not substitute one for the other.

  • Primer (before grouting): any penetrating primer can be used. For best results, use Demeter's Terracotta Primer by Tile Armor, formulated for terracotta and cotto. It penetrates below the surface without forming a film, preserving the tile's natural color.
  • Sealer (after grouting): any penetrating sealer can be used; if a non-enhancing sealer is used, the color of the tiles will not change. For best results, use Zeus' Tile Sealer by Tile Armor, which preserves the natural look of the material without altering its appearance.
  • Cleaner: a heavy-duty tile cleaner such as Athena's Heavy Duty Tile Cleaner by Tile Armor, for removing grout residue before sealing.

Installation Process
1. Preparing the Substrate:
Ensure the substrate is level, clean, and completely dry before beginning the installation.
2. Applying the Thinset:
Apply thinset evenly to the substrate using a notched trowel.
Also, apply thinset evenly to the back of each tile. This method, known as back-buttering, ensures full coverage and adhesion.
3. Laying Out the Tiles:
Lay out the tiles without hammering them into place. Use hand pressure to level them, accommodating any slight thickness variations.
Maintain a minimum grout spacing of 1/8" between tiles.
4. Cutting Tiles:
For any necessary cuts, use a wet saw to ensure clean and precise edges.
5. Drying:
Allow the installed tiles to dry completely before proceeding to priming.
6. Priming - Before Grouting:
Priming is a required step, not an optional one. It blocks the tile's pores so grout and installation debris cannot stain the terracotta. Skipping it is the most common cause of permanent grout haze and discoloration.
Make sure the tile surface is clean, dry, and free from dust, dirt, or debris.
Demeter's Terracotta Primer is a concentrate and must be diluted with water according to the absorbency of your tile:

  • Low-absorbent materials (hard-burned clays): 1 part primer to 3 parts water
  • Highly absorbent materials (handmade clays): 1 part primer to 1 part water

Apply with a brush, roller, or low-pressure sprayer. Alternatively, individual tiles may be immersed in the diluted primer for 15–20 seconds prior to installation.
Allow 15–20 minutes for the primer to penetrate. Wipe away any excess to prevent residue buildup, and reapply as needed on highly absorbent surfaces.
Note: the primer is a pre-grout treatment only. It is not a substitute for a sealer, and the installation is not protected until step 9 is complete.
7. Grouting:
Once the primer has been absorbed and the surface is dry, proceed with grouting. Be sure to clean any excess grout with a wet sponge immediately to avoid haze.
8. Cleaning:
Wash the floor with a heavy-duty tile cleaner to remove any installation debris and excess grout. LiLi Terracotta Tiles are acid-resistant and can be cleaned with any type of grout cleaner.
The surface must be completely clean and dry before sealing - any residue, wax, or previous treatment left on the tile will prevent the sealer from bonding.
9. Sealing - After Grouting:
Sealing is the final step and provides the long-term protection of the installation. Use Zeus' Tile Sealer by Tile Armor, formulated for porous materials including terracotta, for interior and exterior applications.
Test the sealer on an inconspicuous area first.
Apply a thin, even layer with a brush, roller, or sprayer. Allow 15–30 minutes for penetration, then wipe away excess with a lint-free cloth to prevent streaking.
On highly absorbent surfaces, apply a second coat once the first has dried completely.
Light traffic is permitted after 2–3 hours. Full cure and maximum performance are achieved within 24 hours. Avoid water exposure during this 24-hour window.

LiLi Terracotta Tiles are durable and long-lasting when properly installed and maintained.

Disclaimer
LiLi Tile is not responsible for incorrect tile installations.
For more detailed information or if you have any questions, please contact us directly at lilitile.com
Thank you for choosing LiLi Terracotta Tiles for your project.

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