How To
Installation Guide
Follow these steps for a professional finish. If in doubt, we always recommend hiring an experienced tiler familiar with natural stone and handmade tiles.
⚠️ Important: Zellige tiles are handmade and each piece is slightly unique. Slight variations in colour, size, and surface texture are a hallmark of authentic craftsmanship — not a defect.
Surface Preparation
Ensure the surface is clean, flat, and structurally sound. Remove old tiles, paint, or adhesive. Fill any holes or cracks with filler and allow to dry completely. The surface must be level within 3mm over a 2m span.
Apply Adhesive
Use a flexible tile adhesive suitable for the surface type. Apply with a notched trowel, working in small sections of around 1m². Comb the adhesive in one direction for better bond.
Lay the Tiles
Press each Zellige tile firmly into the adhesive with a slight twisting motion. Because each tile is hand-cut and slightly irregular, adjust spacing as needed. Use tile spacers of 2–3mm for consistent grout lines.
Allow to Cure
Allow the adhesive to cure fully — typically 24 hours for walls and 48 hours for floors — before proceeding. Do not walk on floor tiles during this time.
Grout the Joints
Use a flexible, unsanded grout for joints under 3mm. Apply with a rubber float, pressing grout fully into the joints. Remove excess grout with a damp sponge before it dries.
Polish & Seal
Once grout is fully cured (48–72 hours), buff the tile surface with a dry cloth to remove any remaining haze. Apply a penetrating grout sealer to protect the grout lines from moisture and staining.
Materials You'll Need
- Flexible tile adhesive
- Notched trowel (6mm V-notch)
- Rubber float for grouting
- Flexible unsanded grout
- Tile spacers (2–3mm)
- Rubber mallet
- Level and straight edge
- Tile cutter or wet saw
- Sponges and buckets
- Penetrating grout sealer
- Safety glasses and gloves
- Lint-free polishing cloth