Terracotta is the pride of India, which has been used for centuries, long before any of the new tiles ideas came into being. You can find terracotta art and terracotta tiles used in many Indian historical sites because they are the indigenous handcrafted tiles. The earthy finish, the original handcrafted look, and the warm tone of colour is what make the terracotta tiles the most organic and beautiful tiles of India.

The most important factor is that you might not have seen a more versatile organic tiles before like this one. From traditional homes to cute cozy cafes, the tiles can fit into anywhere and enhance the beauty and grace of the place. Do terracotta tiles inspire you, too? And you too want to explore its designs, varied usage, along maintenance tips? Then you will find this blog of ours exceptionally useful. Every information you need, we have them ready here just for you. 

What Are Terracotta Tiles?

Terracotta is basically natural clay made tiles created by baking in much of a lower temperature than the usual tiles. Terracotta reddish-brown, durable kind of tiles. The word Terracotta means baked earth in Italian, and if you look at how it is made or what it is made of, then you will understand Terracotta tiles are indeed baked earth. 

The rustic-looking, earthy tiles come with a different look and design. However, if you look at the nature, the tiles is porous, and used unglazed most of the times. But the modern usage of terracotta tiles shows glazed looks as well. Another big advantage with these tiles is that they have subtle uniqueness in each piece due to their handcrafted and natural element feature. 

Key Characteristics of Terracotta Tiles

Do you wanna know about the characteristics and features of the terracotta tiles? They are unique and different from the other tiles in many ways, so if you wanna know, here are the characteristics,  

• Warm, natural tones give an earthy aesthetic that creates inviting spaces
• Made from natural clay with minimal processing, so you get eco-friendly tiles for your home. 
• Surface has pores, so the tiles are breathable, but for moisture areas, they need sealing. 
• It can give warmth in the winter times, and keep it cool during summer, so the thermal comfort is on. 
• With proper installation and maintenance, the tiles can last for ages. 

Terracotta Tile Designs & Styles

When talking about terracotta tiles, it might come to mind that they do not have various designs, and come only in some simple designs and styles. But that is not the truth; here we have identified the different terracotta tiles designs and styles ready for you. 

1. Traditional Square Terracotta Tiles

These are the most common and the classic ones, which are mostly used in the outdoor areas like your veranda or courtyards. You can get the most timeless looks, and if you have wooden furniture for your courtyard, then it will create the ultimate earthy look. 

2. Hexagonal & Patterned Terracotta Tiles

In the modern home setting, hexagonal or patterned terracotta tiles are the most suitable. These designs are more contemporary and modern looking, and works really well in feature walls or kitchens of modern aesthetic homes. 

3. Handmade & Rustic Finish Tiles

Are you a fan of the handmade and original look? Then the rustic terracotta tiles with rough and irregular edges, along with textures, are a great choice. These tiles are adequate for artistic and bohemian home aesthetics. 

4. Glazed Terracotta Tiles

Did you know that, along with the regular ones, glazed finish terracotta tiles are now becoming a new favourite in the market? Regular terracotta is porous, so gets stained easily, but not the glazed ones, because they are non-porous and ideal for your high-moisture corners like the kitchen and bathroom. 

Where Can Terracotta Tiles Be Used?

Are you wondering which are the places, or where you can place the terracotta tiles in your home? Then read the section below to know more about it. 

1. Terracotta Tiles for Roofing

In Indian households terracotta roof tiles are very famous and widely used. 

• Bungalow roof
• Sectional roof shading
• Farmhouse and villa roof
• Porch or outhouse roof

2. Terracotta Floor Tiles

Terracotta flooring is popular in:

• Living rooms
• Courtyards and patios
• Farmhouses and villas
• Cafés and heritage properties

They create a warm, grounded atmosphere and age beautifully over time.

3. Terracotta Wall Tiles

Terracotta wall tiles work well as:

• Accent walls in living rooms
• Kitchen backsplashes
• Staircase feature walls
• Outdoor façade cladding

Their texture adds depth and visual interest to plain surfaces.

4. Terracotta Tiles for Outdoor Areas

Due to their thermal properties, terracotta tiles are ideal for:

• Balconies
• Terraces
• Walkways
• Garden seating areas

With proper sealing, they can withstand outdoor conditions effectively.

Advantages of Terracotta Tiles

If you are looking for the advantages that the terracotta tiles carry, then you should know they have plenty. But here we are gonna give you those which are gonna be useful for you. 

• Organically made, so they are eco-friendly and naturally sourced.  
• The aesthetic is timeless and classic 
• Terracotta floor tiles are exceptionally comfortable underfoot. 
• Fit very well in traditional as well as modern settings. 

Things to Consider Before Choosing Terracotta Tiles

There are multiple things you should consider when you are choosing clay terracotta tiles for your home. Let’s understand them. 

• These tiles have pores, so without sealing you cannot use them. 
• Tiles can catch stains easily if they are not sealed. 
• Maintenance of the tiles are much more intense than the regular vitrified tiles
• Longeivity can be maintained if installed properly, so hire expert professionals. 
• The terracotta tiles price can vary, so go to the best tiles shop in Bangalore to explore the options. 

How to Maintain Terracotta Tiles

Proper care helps clay terracotta tiles remain beautiful for decades.

1. Sealing

Seal the tiles after installation to protect against stains, moisture, and dirt. Resealing is recommended every few years, depending on usage.

2. Cleaning

• Use a soft broom or mop regularly
• Clean with mild, pH-neutral cleaners
• Avoid harsh chemicals and acidic cleaners

3. Stain Removal

Blot spills immediately. For stubborn stains, use a terracotta-safe cleaner or consult a professional.

FAQs

1. Are terracotta tiles durable?

Yes clay terracotta tiles can be very durable if installed and maintained in the right way.

2. Do terracotta tiles need sealing?

Yes, as these tiles are porous naturally, sealing is essential to minimise the chances of water absorption and dirt build-up. You might also need to go for periodic resealing. 

3. Can terracotta tiles be used in bathrooms?

Yes, glazed terracotta ones are non-porous and moisture-resistant, so you can absolutely use them in your bathrooms. 

4. Are terracotta tiles ideal for Indian weather and climate?

Yes, they are very much suited for the Indian weather, and in fact that is the reason why Indians have been using these tiles for ages. 

5. How do you clean terracotta tiles?

Use pH-neutral cleaners to clean your tiles, always use soft clothes, or mops to clean the tiles. 

Summing Up

Terracotta tiles are one of the most favourite choices of Indian homeowners for their homes. Traditional homes, villas, or bungalows are the places where you can see the usage of tiles in wide scale. The usage of terracotta is not new in India, over the years and centuries, Indians have been using them differently, mostly for the outdoor areas and roofing, but today these tiles are not just limited to the roof or outdoor.

Terracotta tiles have now modernized, the porous tiles now come with the non-porous glazed features as well, which can fit well into your high moisture bathroom areas. The thermal comfort tiles are ideal for Indian homes to keep comfortable during every season. 

I am sure, after knowing the multiple benefits and design variations, you have made the decision already that terracotta tiles are gonna be included in your home decorations.

Learn More: Modern Bathroom Tiles Trends for 2026: Smart Design Choices for Contemporary Homes