SALTILLO TILE for kitchen backsplash!

Mexico’s Saltillo tile at first might not be an obvious choice for your kitchen backsplash tile installation. Traditionally Saltillo tile have been used primarily on floors. But if you want a rustic, earthy feel to your kitchen backsplash tile installation, Saltillo tile is high on my list. Especially if you do your research and pick just the right products to finish the surface of this classic quarry tile produced in the northeast Mexico city of Saltillo.
The city of Saltillo was known throughout the 20th Century as “The Athens of Mexico” because of its high population of intellectuals residing in and around the city. With a population around 700,000 and growing, Saltillo tile is one of this city’s most famous exports.
Saltillo tile come in various hues of red, ochre and yellow. Saltillo tile are either formed by ramming the raw, damp clay into forms or they are hand cut. When the Saltillo tiles are thoroughly dried, the raw tiles are placed in the kiln to be fired. The hue of each tile is affected by what other colors of clay tile they are set next to making every kiln opening something akin to opening presents on Christmas morning. You never know what delightful surprises await you.
Saltillo tile are pretty inexpensive but can be expensive to install. Saltillo tile are extremely porous and you should search out professional help if you are planning an installation as the porous tiles will soak up the moisture in the setting and grouting compounds like a sponge if the tiles are not prepped properly.
Once Saltillo tiles are set and grouted they are usually finished with an industrial strength sealant or possibly an age old sealant like a mixture of linseed oil and melted bee’s wax. Unless Saltillo tiles are sealed properly they will wear down from being walked upon. But this look in and of itself can give your room a charming, lived in feel.
But wait…. your intention is to use Saltillo tile for your kitchen backsplash tile installation. How much wear and tear does wiping down your tile with a damp cloth or sponge do? You’re right, not much at all. After picking your size and shape of Saltillo tile to work with for your kitchen backsplash tile installation remember that particular emphasis should be placed on choosing just the right finish that will give you the perfect effect you are looking for for your kitchen backsplash tile installation; the focal point of your kitchen. Don’t be afraid to try Saltillo tile for your kitchen.
Saltillo tile can be found in the following sizes” 4x4, 8X8, 12X12, 16x16, 18X18, 24X24 and various shapes that offer you the capability of creating interesting patterns.