Alicatado

Alicatado refers to the tiling of walls or floors using tiles such as ceramic, porcelain, glass, or natural stone, creating a finished surface. It denotes both the installation process and the resulting tiled area. The term is common in Spanish-speaking contexts, with alicatar as the verb and alicatado as the noun or past participle.

The process requires a prepared substrate, often with moisture barriers in wet areas. Tiles are set with adhesive mortar or modern cementitious tile glues, and joints are filled with grout. Proper layout and precise cutting are essential to achieve even joints and aligned patterns; expansion joints may be needed to accommodate movement and temperature changes. After installation, surfaces are typically cleaned and cured before use.

Materials and finishes vary widely. Ceramic and porcelain tiles are durable and widely used for both walls and floors, while glass tiles offer reflective accents and natural stone provides a luxurious look. Decorative tile traditions, such as azulejos in Iberian and Portuguese-speaking regions or Talavera-inspired tiles in Mexico, represent regional expressions within the broader practice of alicatado.

Regional significance and style have historical depth. Alicatado is central to Iberian architecture and colonial-era tilework, influencing public and religious buildings as well as homes in Latin America and other former territories. In contemporary contexts, alicatado remains a common method for bathrooms, kitchens, façades, and interior design, valued for its durability, ease of maintenance, and aesthetic versatility. Regular maintenance includes cleaning and, when needed, sealing or regrouting to preserve the tiled surface.