5 Common Mistakes with Cotto
5 Common Mistakes with Cotto
Cotto is handmade terracotta - even more porous and irregular than machine-made tiles. Its rustic beauty demands traditional care methods. Modern cleaning mistakes destroy its character.
Mistake #1
Using modern cleaning machines too aggressively
Why this is a problem
Cotto's surface is softer and more irregular than factory tiles. Aggressive machine scrubbing removes the fired surface layer, exposing the softer clay underneath which absorbs even more.
How to fix it
Re-seal the exposed surface with Lithofin Cotto Wax-Finish in multiple coats to rebuild protection.
Prevention
If using a machine, use the lowest speed and softest pad. Hand cleaning with a brush is gentler and works with cotto's irregular surface.
Mistake #2
Stripping all wax layers at once
Why this is a problem
Years of wax buildup IS the protection. Stripping everything in one session leaves completely bare, extremely porous cotto that's vulnerable to every drip and spill during the re-waxing process.
How to fix it
If fully stripped, immediately apply Lithofin Cotto Initial-Wax as a base coat, then Lithofin Cotto Wax-Finish within hours.
Prevention
Strip and re-wax in sections, completing each section before moving on. Never leave bare cotto exposed overnight.
Mistake #3
Using water-based sealers on cotto
Why this is a problem
Traditional cotto care uses solvent-based wax that penetrates deep into the porous body. Water-based sealers sit on the surface, creating a plastic-like film that peels and doesn't breathe.
How to fix it
Strip the water-based sealer mechanically or with Lithofin Wax-Off. Switch to traditional wax treatment.
Prevention
Use the Lithofin Cotto range: Cotto Initial-Wax for base treatment, Cotto Wax-Finish for ongoing protection, Cotto Care for daily cleaning.
Mistake #4
Not treating cotto before grouting
Why this is a problem
Cotto is so porous that cement grout stains the tile surface permanently during installation. The grey grout soaks into the edges and face of each tile, creating dirty-looking borders.
How to fix it
Extremely difficult to reverse. Heavy Lithofin MN Builders' Clean application may lighten the staining.
Prevention
Apply Lithofin Cotto Initial-Wax before grouting. This creates a temporary barrier that prevents grout absorption.
Mistake #5
Expecting uniform colour from handmade tiles
Why this is a problem
Cotto tiles vary in colour by nature - different firing positions in the kiln create different shades. Trying to even out the colour with stains or enhancers often makes it worse.
How to fix it
Accept the variation as part of cotto's character. Lithofin Cotto Wax-Finish evens out the appearance slightly while respecting the natural variation.
Prevention
Mix tiles from multiple boxes during installation. The pattern of variation is part of cotto's beauty - embrace it.
Need help with Cotto?
Use the LithoFinder wizard to find the right product for your cotto surface, or read the full Cotto care guide.