We go over what lime pop and efflorescence are in Saltillo tile
Lime Pops
Lime pops can sometimes appear on the surface of Saltillo tiles as small bumps that resemble bubbles or bumps. These "lime pops" are typically caused by the presence of lime or calcium within the clay.
During the manufacturing process, the presence of these minerals is usually filtered out. However, it is sometimes difficult to completely eliminate lime from the clay. Consequently, when the clay is fired, the lime nodules heat up and expand. This expansion puts pressure on the surrounding clay, and if the pressure becomes excessive, the lime pops can erupt through the tile surface, resulting in small indentations that reveal the natural clay beneath.
Don't worry! This is completely normal and can be easily maintained. In fact, it adds to the character of handmade, authentic tiles!
If you notice the presence of these small lime pops when inspecting your tiles, you have the option to not use those particular tiles. We recommend either leaving them behind or repairing them before installation.
To prevent lime pops from appearing after installation, it's important to hire an experienced installer who knows how to properly prepare the subfloor and install the tiles. In some cases, a professional can gently grind down the lime pops using a diamond-tipped tool. This should be done carefully to avoid damaging the surrounding tiles. Alternatively, lightly sanding the affected area and resealing it can often revitalize the spots.
Efflorescence
Efflorescence is a common issue that occurs on Saltillo tiles. It manifests as a white, powdery substance on the tile surface, typically after being exposed to moisture.
The cause of efflorescence is the salts and minerals, such as calcium, that rise to the surface of the tile. When moisture enters the tile's pores, it dissolves these salts. As the moisture evaporates, the salts crystallize on the tile surface, resulting in the characteristic white powdery appearance of efflorescence.
To prevent efflorescence on Saltillo tiles, it is crucial to adequately seal them with a high-quality sealer. You can find our recommended tile sealers here. Proper sealing helps reduce moisture penetration and prevents the migration of salts to the surface. Additionally, ensure that the tiles are installed correctly and that the grout lines are sealed to prevent moisture from seeping through.
If efflorescence appears on unsealed Saltillo tiles, it can be removed using a hard-bristled brush. Afterward, the tiles should be sealed once they are completely dry.
However, if efflorescence occurs on a sealed Saltillo tile, the sealer must be removed before attempting to eliminate the efflorescence with a brush or sandpaper. For oil-based sealers, an oil-based stripper should be used to effectively remove the sealer and reach the clay body surface. Once the sealer is removed, the efflorescence can be eliminated with a brush or sandpaper. After removing the efflorescence, make sure the tile is spotless and allowed to dry completely before applying a new sealer.