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Mexican Talavera Bathroom Sinks! |
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FAQ of Handcrafted Mexican Tiles
What is Talavera Tile?
Talavera Tile is a handcrafted and hand painted ceramic tile made in Mexico. During
the colonial times of the 16th and 17th centuries the Spanish brought
to México their knowledge of pottery, and tile making. The name of
Talavera comes from the potters' town of Talavera de la Reina, Known in
Spain for exquisite tiles and pottery. The small town of Talavera de La
Reina is located a few miles from of Madrid.
What are the advantages of using Talavera Tile?
Dollar for dollar, nothing else delivers the design impact that Talavera
does! Other materials, including machine made tiles, seem cold and
sterile by comparison. And when compared to other hand painted tile,
the warmth, beauty and cost of Talavera tile just cannot be beat.
Where can these tiles be used?
Talavera tiles can
be installed in kitchen back splashes, bathrooms, fireplaces,
fountains, patio benches, counter tops, stair risers, and main entrance
doors. These tiles should be used, however, only on countertops that are "light duty". As a design tool, Talavera tile offers a limitless array of design expressions and aesthetic solutions for almost any construction project.
Set it straight or on the diagonal; solid colors or mixed with decos;
random mix or checkerboard pattern; or solids with a decorative border
added.
Can I order tile samples on line?
 Yes! You may order samples at www.mexicantiles.com any time 24/7 365
days. We usually ship out samples the same day they are ordered. If you
order on a weekend or a holiday the order will go out the next business
day. We recommend that you save it in your favorites
How long until I receive my sample(s)?
Samples are sent from the San Diego-area distribution center via UPS
Ground, or the carrier of your preference. Orders of samples placed
before 10:00 a.m. PST will usually shipped the same day. Orders placed
after 10:00 a.m. PST will be shipped
the next business day.
With whom can I check the availability of a specific product?
Call toll free our customer service at 1-877-945-4900 during business hours or email us to orders@mexicantiles.com
Why do some talavera tiles have crazing and vary in appearance?
These are distinguishing features of Talavera
tile that add to their beauty and uniqueness. They are not mass
produced. Each one is painstakingly handmade by centuries old methods.
They are literally small works of art and will vary slightly in color
and shape.
How wide apart should the size of the grout joints be?
The
size of the grout joint will affect the overall appearance of your
ceramic surface. A 1/4" grout joint will produce an overall smoother
looking surface, while a tight joint will produce a more "sculpted"
appearance which shows off the slight pillowing surface of the tiles.
What type of grout should I use?
Typically
for intalling mexican handcrafted tile sanded grout is used. However,
you may choose between both sanded and or Non-sanded grout. Sanded
grout has sand added for strength. It's used for joints wider than 1/16 inch. Non-sanded
grout is usually mixed with a latex additive to make it stronger and
more workable. It's used for joints less than 1/16 inch wide. I you
decide to use a tight joint less thant 1/16 inch, it is recommended to
use Non-sanded grout.
What color grout should I use?
The color of grout you choose can greatly effect the look of your tile. Using
a white or a light colored grout highlights the color in tile. Using a light grout
with a light tile is good for hiding any mistakes you've made in setting the tile.
Choosing a dark grout with a light tile, or light grout with a dark tile will
emphasize the geometric pattern of your layout. Before you go wild with a colored grout,
test it in a small area first.
How should I care for my Talavera Tile?
Clean
the tile just as you would any other ceramic wall tile. Use only mild
cleaners that are non-abrasive. Abrasive cleaners will scratch the
surface of ceramic surfaces.
Can the tiles be used on the floor?
Sometimes. The tiles can be used as accents between other floor tiles or as borders.
Can ceramic tile be used outdoors?
Yes, in areas where is freezing temperatures are not common. The tiles are not frost proof.
Can the tiles be used around a fireplace?
Any tile can be used on the face of a fireplace. It is not recommend putting the tile directly In the firebox.
Is it difficult to replace a broken tile?
Something like this should be left to a professional. The grout around
the broken tile is removed first, then the broken tile is carefully
removed using a hammer and chisel. (Don't forget to wear goggles).
Scrape up all the hard mortar or adhesive. Then replace the tile and
regrout.
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