Terracotta tiles last decades, but they fade, become porous, and collect dirt over time. Restoring them does not always mean painting over them. Thinking Paint offers two approaches depending on what you want the finished roof to look like. This guide covers both so you pick the right product the first time.
What is the difference between glazing and painting a terracotta roof?
Two distinct products, two different outcomes.
Terracotta Glaze penetrates the tile surface, repels water, dirt, and stains, and enhances the natural terracotta colour with a glossy finish. It does not change the colour. One mist coat applied with airless spray.
Terracotta Primer plus Roof Protect is a full paint system. The primer bonds to the tile, then two coats of topcoat give you a solid new colour. This changes the appearance entirely.
| Approach | Product | Finish | Colour Change | Coats | Warranty |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Glaze | Terracotta Glaze | Glossy, natural look | No | 1 mist coat | 2 years |
| Paint | Terracotta Primer + Roof Protect | Solid colour | Yes | 1 primer + 2 topcoat | 15 to 20 years |
Both approaches require the same surface preparation. The difference is the end result.
When should I use Terracotta Glaze?
Choose glaze when you want to keep the natural terracotta look.
Glaze suits roofs where:
- The tiles are in good structural condition with no major cracks
- The colour has faded but you still want the terracotta appearance
- You want water and stain protection without covering the clay surface
- You prefer a glossy, enhanced version of what is already there
- You want a faster job with one mist coat instead of a three-coat system
Terracotta Glaze is designed for unglazed terracotta tiles only. It penetrates the tile rather than sitting on top, which means it protects from within without forming a thick film layer.
Use the calculator to estimate how much glaze you need based on your roof area.
When should I paint a terracotta roof instead?
Choose paint when you want a different colour or a longer warranty.
Painting suits roofs where:
- You want a completely new colour
- The tiles are heavily stained, patchy, or previously coated
- You want 15 to 20 years of warranty coverage instead of 2
- You are preparing the property for sale and want a modern look
- The roof needs to match a new exterior colour scheme
The process is: clean, apply one coat of Terracotta Primer, then two coats of Roof Protect in your chosen colour. Terracotta Primer is a styrene acrylic formula with etching and bonding capabilities, specifically designed for unglazed terracotta surfaces. Custom tinting is available for any colour.
For maximum protection, choose 20-Year Roof Protect as your topcoat. For a solid mid-range option, the 15-Year Roof Protect does the job well.
Use the calculator to estimate primer and topcoat quantities.
How do I prepare a terracotta roof before glazing or painting?
Preparation is the same regardless of which approach you choose.
1. Inspect the tiles. Look for cracked, broken, or loose tiles. Replace damaged tiles before applying any coating. A coating will not fix a structural problem underneath it.
2. Clean the surface. Remove dirt, moss, lichen, and debris. High-pressure cleaning is standard. The surface must be free of contaminants for the primer or glaze to bond properly.
3. Let the roof dry completely. Do not apply product to a damp surface. Allow enough drying time after cleaning before you start coating.
4. Check ridge capping and pointing. Repair crumbling mortar or loose ridge caps before coating. If you are unsure what this involves, see the guides on roof tile bedding and bedding mortar.
Skipping preparation is the main reason roof coatings fail early. A clean, dry, structurally sound surface is what makes the product perform to warranty. For more detail on how preparation affects coating lifespan, read why roof paint fails.
How much product do I need for a terracotta roof?
Coverage rates differ between products:
- Terracotta Primer: approximately 9 square metres per litre. Available in 15-litre drums.
- Terracotta Glaze: check the product page for coverage per litre.
- Roof Protect: check the product page for coverage per litre. Two coats required.
If you are unsure of your roof area, see how to measure your roof for paint for a step-by-step method using ground-level measurements.
The Thinking Paint calculator takes your roof size and product choice and gives you a quantity estimate. This avoids ordering too much or running short mid-coat.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I paint over terracotta tiles that have already been glazed? A: If the existing glaze is in good condition, it may be possible to paint over it with proper primer. Contact the Thinking Paint team on 0447 710 365 to discuss your specific situation before ordering.
Q: Does Terracotta Glaze change the colour of my tiles? A: No. It enhances the existing terracotta colour and adds a glossy protective finish. It does not add pigment or change the shade.
Q: Can I use Terracotta Glaze on factory-glazed tiles? A: Terracotta Primer and Terracotta Glaze are designed for unglazed terracotta tiles. If your tiles are factory-glazed, contact the team for advice on the right product.
Q: How long does a terracotta roof restoration last? A: Terracotta Glaze carries a 2-year warranty. A full Terracotta Primer plus Roof Protect system carries a 15 to 20-year warranty depending on the topcoat chosen.
Q: Can I apply Terracotta Glaze myself? A: It is applied as a mist coat using airless spray equipment. If you have spray gear and are comfortable working at heights safely, DIY is possible. Otherwise, a professional applicator is recommended.
Terracotta roofs can be restored by glazing to preserve the natural look or painting to change the colour. Both start with proper preparation. The Thinking Paint Roof Protection Method applies to terracotta the same way it applies to any roof surface: identify, assess, prepare, choose your product, and order the right amount. Use the calculator to estimate quantities, or call 0447 710 365 for product advice before you order.