Living sustainably is a different experience for everyone, and if you’re trying to steer your lifestyle toward more eco-friendly choices in your home and everyday routine, it’s important to start off slowly and learn as you go. While there are some changes that you can make overnight, others take time to research and implement, and over time, sustainability becomes a lifestyle in itself.
One of the best ways to live more in tune with nature is to choose building materials that minimize environmental impact without skimping on functionality, durability, or beauty. Terracotta tiles tick all the boxes and are one of the best options for sustainable home decoration. If you’re in the midst of your redecoration project and you’re wondering about the type of tiling to choose for your home, here’s why terracotta is a good fit.
Key Takeaways
- Terracotta tiles are made of natural clay of a gorgeous reddish-deep brown color, which is a non-toxic material. They can be made with relatively low-energy inputs, reducing their production’s carbon footprint.
- These tiles are highly durable and can last you decades with proper care and maintenance. Terracotta can absorb, store, and gradually release heat, which makes it an energy-efficient choice for your home, particularly if you live in areas with harsh winters.
Why Terracotta Tiles Are Perfect for Sustainable Home Decor
If terracotta tiles caught your eye but you’re unsure whether they’ll be the right fit for your home, here are some advantages to keep in mind when shopping for them.
Terracotta Tiles Are Made of Natural Materials
One of the greatest advantages of terracotta tiles is that they’re made of earthenware clay, which is easily found worldwide. The clay is kiln-fired, purified, and shaped, and it consists of completely natural components. This means that, unlike some synthetic tiles that are made of polymers, terracotta tiles don’t contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs), so you won’t be at risk of increased indoor air pollution.
To ensure the best quality, it’s important to choose your tile manufacturer carefully. It’s always recommended to find a trustworthy company with a proven track record. Well-established manufacturers usually have whole collections of tile variations, like Clé terracotta tile collection, which takes the guessing out of the equation, and you know you’re getting exactly what you’re paying for.
Terracotta Tiles Are Biodegradable
Since they’re made of completely natural materials, terracotta tiles are fully recyclable and biodegradable, which makes them an excellent eco-friendly choice for your home decor. These tiles can be crushed and reused in landscaping or construction projects, further extending their life. Terracotta breaks down naturally over time without harming the environment, so you don’t have to worry about harming it once the time comes to replace the tiles.
Even when you’re done using them as tiles, you can easily repurpose them for any suitable DIY project in your home, especially on your patio or any outdoor space. If you have a knack for it, you can also use them in creating mosaics and art pieces.
Terracotta Tiles Production Has a Reduced Carbon Footprint
To ensure you’re using eco-friendly materials in your home, it’s important to take into consideration the carbon footprint of their production. Terracotta tiles fit this profile because they can be made through sun-drying or firing at lower temperatures, without the use of heavy machinery. This, in turn, reduces the carbon footprint associated with their manufacturing, and the result is a product that looks good and is a far more sustainable option than other types of tiles.
If you want to take things one step further, try finding local tile makers who make their tiles by hand. Chances are they’re using traditional tile-making techniques and renewable energy sources, which additionally reduces the environmental impact of transportation.
Terracotta Tiles Are Durable and Low-Maintenance
When picking materials for your home decor, you want them to be reliable and not require too much fuss. Otherwise, you’re at risk of spending a lot of time and money on maintenance. This is why so many people swear by terracotta tiles – they require minimal attention, but they’ll serve you for years if not decades.
The only thing you need to worry about with these tiles is treating them to a regular sealing so that they keep that clean look and lock away moisture. When they’re regularly sealed, you don’t need to use chemical cleaning products to ensure they look good, just gentle natural cleaners will do the trick nicely.
This brings us to the topic of terracotta tiles being extremely durable. Unlike other tiles that may need frequent replacement, terracotta’s durability reduces the need for new materials, cutting down on waste and additional maintenance costs. We already mentioned that they can serve you well for decades, which is a significant factor in helping you reduce your environmental footprint.
Conclusion
If you’re deep in your home redecoration project, then you know that there’s no lack of choices when it comes to tiles. If you’re looking for an option that will support your sustainable lifestyle, opting for terracotta tiles might be just the thing for you. Using them for flooring in outdoor areas, kitchens, or even living rooms will give your space a unique sense of warmth and earthiness, making you feel more comfortable in your own home.
Terracotta tiles are made of natural clay, which makes them fully biodegradable and recyclable while giving them that recognizable color and durability. Along with looking good, terracotta tiles will serve you for many years without demanding elaborate maintenance and additional expenses on that front. Every step of the way, these tiles allow you to reduce the carbon footprint of your household and make more environmentally mindful choices for your family.
