Terracotta is made from clay of different colors, containing varying amounts of lime and mineral salts. It comes in different shapes and is then heated in kilns, which gives it the appearance we know.
The treatment of terracotta is done in three different stages: stripping, treatment, and finishing patina.
Stripping
Stripping is done on both new and old terracotta. When stripping new terracotta, it is recommended to use Giordacide with a nylon brush. After this, the terracotta should be dried to remove any efflorescence of mineral salts and lime, which may appear on the tiles.
For old terracotta, the stripping process aims to remove previous treatments applied to the terracotta. Different types of treatments require different products:
- Giordafort HP is used to remove oil-based treatments.
- For wax-based treatments with heavy soiling, Giorda Fort is used.
- For resin-based treatments, Giorda DK 530 is used. With this product, a Tynnex brush should be used. Rinsing is done with Giordacide and a nylon brush.
Treatment
This second stage is done once the terracotta tiles are completely dry. There are several treatments, both aesthetic and technical (to protect the terracotta from stains).
- First, we have Giordatim Naturel, a solvent-free, matt, water-based, hydrophobic and oleophobic treatment.
- Next is Giordabarr, a color-enhancing treatment that provides a satin finish of very high performance, both technically and aesthetically.
- Finally, we have Giorda Oil, also color-enhancing, giving an old-fashioned terracotta a coppery appearance.
For outdoor terracotta treatments, you can use Giordatim Naturel and Giordapav, both hydrophobic and oleophobic, water-based.
Finishing patina
The finishing patina aims to facilitate maintenance and add an aesthetic touch to the terracotta (matte satin – high satin).
For this, we use Giordapatine: a finishing wax with self-polishing properties. We can also apply Giorda Wax, a natural polishing wax that will give a beautiful patina to your terracotta.
For daily maintenance, Giordasol is used, a product with a neutral pH.
If you need additional information or advice on our products, do not hesitate to contact us. We would be happy to help you find the right solution :)
