Cotto tile is an incredibly versatile tile type, making it an excellent choice for a wide variety of applications. We high-fire each tile, which hardens and seals each one from the elements. If you have an area that gets exposed to freeze-thaw conditions, Cotto tile is one of the best options for installation, as they are manufactured in a way that blocks water from penetrating the tile where it can freeze and cause cracks. Our Cotto tiles can be installed both inside and outside, and in areas exposed to both dry and wet conditions.
Whether you’re adding tile to walls, backsplashes, or floors, our Cotto tiles add a warm and natural, yet modern look to your living space. Common areas for Cotto tile installation include kitchens, bathrooms, patios, backsplashes, shower walls, shower floors, fountains, spas, and entryways.
Yes! Zia’s Cotto tiles are high-fired, sealing them off from water penetration, making them perfect for wet locations such as bathrooms, kitchens, and outdoor living spaces. That said, you’ll still want to ensure the installation surface of each area is stable and waterproof prior to starting the installation. Finally, be sure to use adhesive cement and grout appropriate for use in wet areas.
Because Cotto tile is sealed as a result of the firing process, it’s suitable even in areas that experience frost or freezing temperatures where other tiles may crack due to freeze-thaw cycles. With that said, places Cotto tile should not be installed include areas that might encounter heavy loads like vehicles or equipment, such as on driveways or garage floors.
Zia Tile’s Cotto tiles are made from the finest clays, first extruded and then high-fired, resulting in beautiful earthy tones that feature natural variations. Each of our Cotto tiles has a truly unique look, with a depth and character that’s all their own. A major benefit of our Cotto tile manufacturing process beyond the beautiful appearance is the water-resistance properties baked into each tile. This enables Zia’s Cotto tile to be installed where freeze-thaw cycles might damage more porous tiles that soak water up, along with areas that are exposed to wet conditions frequently, such as outdoor living spaces.
The materials that are used and the firing process of making our Cotto tiles means no two tiles look exactly alike. Each Zia Cotto tile has subtle variations in its color tones, patterns, and details that add more character to our Cotto tiles than plainly mass-produced tiles that are highly uniform in appearance. Our Cotto tiles are a great design decision for installation in environments which prioritize authenticity and craftsmanship. Zia’s Cotto tiles have an approximate variation of 15-20% between each tile. If you’re seeking a more uniform look, we suggest increasing the order size by 20% to reduce the amount of variation during installation.
Zia’s Cotto tiles are encapsulated by the manufacturing process and therefore do not require sealing, as they are protected from water penetration and stains. You can mix different tones and shades from different cartons of Cotto tile for achieving a harmonic look between the varying hues and surface textures. For installation areas that may come in direct contact with water, such as bathroom showers, kitchen backsplashes, or outdoor living spaces, you’ll want to ensure the base installation surface has been properly waterproofed before you install your new Cotto tile.