Painting Quarry Tiles

Quarry tile can be an elegant and long lasting flooring solution for homes, offices, and many other settings. Quarry tile, from the French term quarrel (four sides), is a hard fired clay tile very similar in its fabrication to the familiar and beautiful terra cotta tile. It is also a similarly durable, hard wearing, and water-resistant choice in flooring.

With a Variety of Color Choices, Painting Quarry Tiles Is Not Necessary

Quarry tile comes in a variety of color schemes and textures, making it a popular choice in flooring. Thus, painting quarry tiles is usually not necessary or desirable. However, properly sealing and caring for your quarry tile will enhance its natural look and durability, creating a beautiful floor that will last for many years.

When installing quarry tiles, many of the same rules for other types of tile installation apply. Be sure to plan your layout and install the first tile precisely, as it will set the pattern for all the rest of the tiles in the room. A typical sand-cement mix will be appropriate for laying a bed of mortar for the tiles. One important consideration for quarry tiles is that when grouting, they can trap wet grout. You shouldn't pre-seal your tiles, but there are products that will prevent grout smears and wash off when cleaning.

Proper care of quarry tile should include a good sealer, which will enhance the strength of the tile while repelling soil, water, stains, chemicals and other undesirable substances. A good finish will enhance the look of your tile, while further protecting it. If you need to strip old finishes off of quarry tile, choose a stripper that will completely emulsify old the old chemicals and leave a clean surface for your new preparations. Additional no-slip treatments can be added to enhance the safety of your quarry tile flooring.