At New York Cement Tile, our Moroccan Zellige collection celebrates centuries of timeless craftsmanship. Traditionally used to create intricate geometric and floral designs in the most ornate palaces, these handmade tiles now bring their rich history and character to modern homes and public spaces around the world.

Each tile is completely unique—no two are exactly alike. Natural variations in color, texture, and surface details like pits and chips are part of the charm and authenticity of Zellige. To achieve a balanced and intentional layout, we recommend mixing tiles from all boxes prior to installation.

For best results, we also suggest ordering 15–25% overage to give yourself flexibility in curating your final layout. Every installation becomes a one-of-a-kind expression of this age-old art form.

Please note: Zellige tiles do not typically include traditional trim or edge pieces. You can find more information about finishing options in our FAQ, or contact us directly with any installation questions. Installers should always wear protective gear when handling Zellige, mortar, sealants, and grout.

Let our Zellige transform your space into something truly special—rich in texture, history, and soul.

Our Zellige tiles blend old-world craftsmanship with modern style. Each piece is handcrafted in Morocco by artisans who have perfected their technique over generations, using only natural materials and time-honored methods to create tiles with enduring beauty.

The process begins with locally sourced clay that is carefully soaked, cleaned, and prepared by hand. Once shaped, the tiles are sun-dried in the open air, then individually refined and smoothed. Each tile is hand-glazed and fired in a traditional kiln, where natural heat variation gives every piece its own depth, tone, and personality.

No two tiles are exactly alike—each one tells a story of human touch, cultural heritage, and subtle imperfection. The result is a surface that feels earthy, elegant, and uniquely alive in any space.

Our Zellige tiles are handcrafted and inherently variable, which contributes to their unique beauty. Below are the nominal dimensions for each format:

• Square – 4" x 4" x 3/8"
  
• Square – 2" x 2" x 3/8"
  
• Bejmat – 2" x 6" x 3/4"*

*Please note: Actual Bejmat dimensions often measure closer to 1¾" x 5½".

DISCLAIMER

All dimensions are nominal and may vary by up to ± 1/4 inch due to the handmade nature of the tile. Variations in size, thickness, and surface irregularities are inherent to the character of Zellige and should be expected.

Traditional vs. Modern Installation

Moroccan Zellige is often installed with tight, grout-free joints. However, for durability and compliance—especially in the U.S.—we recommend a 1/16" grout joint to ensure flexibility, ANSI compliance, and better performance in wet or seismic areas.

Recommended Materials

Unsanded cementitious grout

White thin set or mortar

Products meeting ANSI A118 or ISO 13007 standards

Consult your licensed installer to select grout and setting materials best suited to your space and usage.

Choosing Grout Color

Complete tile installation before grouting.

Review grout color samples in your installed space under natural and artificial light.

For multi-colored tiles, pick a grout color that highlights your favorite shade.

Avoid high-contrast grout (e.g., white on dark tiles), as it can accentuate natural pits and cracks unpredictably.

Using Contrasting Grout?

Order 20–30% extra tile for careful selection.

Seal tiles with Stonetech Heavy Duty Sealer before grouting.

Expect a rustic, expressive finish.

Grout Joints for Wet Areas

Increase grout joints beyond 1/16" on shower floors for slip resistance.

Consider cutting 4x4" Zellige to 2x2" for safer, adaptable layouts and better drainage with staggered patterns.

Final Notes

Always grout Zellige—do not dry-stack.

Grout protects tile edges and stabilizes your installation.

Test grout in a small area before full application, especially with unglazed tiles or contrasting grout.

BEFORE INSTALLATION

1. INSPECT YOUR TILES

Carefully inspect your order when it arrives. Once tiles are installed, they cannot be returned or replaced. Variation in color, texture, shape, and thickness is expected and part of the Zellige aesthetic.

You may notice small ink marks from the cutting process—these can be wiped off with a damp cloth. Be sure to account for:

• Color and tone variation
• Breakage in transit
• Cutting waste

We recommend ordering at least 15% overage to ensure coverage and prevent costly delays.

2. LAYOUT AND BLENDING

Before setting tiles, open all boxes and mix tiles from different boxes to balance color and variation. Layout tiles across your installation area and curate as needed.

For mesh-backed mosaic sheets (e.g. 2x2s, trapezoids), we recommend separating and mixing tiles prior to grouting for better distribution of tone and variation. Refer to our mosaic installation guide for specific steps.

Be involved in the layout process. Proper blending is key to a beautiful Zellige finish.

3. SOAKING & CLEANING (GLAZED ONLY)

Soak glazed Zellige tiles in clean, room-temperature water for 1–2 minutes to remove surface dust and aid adhesion.
(!) Do not soak unglazed tiles, as this can cause efflorescence (white mineral deposits).

INSTALLATION GUIDELINES

MATERIALS CHECKLIST

For Setting:

• High-quality medium-bed thin set morta
• Trowel
• Sponge & buckets
• Tile spacers or wedges
• Water-cooled tile saw (with diamond blade)
• Grout: Mapei Ultracolor Plus FA (glazed)
• (!) Mapei Flexcolor CQ (unglazed)

For Cleaning & Sealing:

• pH-neutral cleaner (e.g., Miracle Sealants Heavy Duty Cleaner)
• Paint roller/tray, lint-free cloth
• (!) 511 Porous Plus Penetrating Sealer
• (!) FILA Matte Wax Sealer
  
  SETTING THE TILE

1. Prep the Surface:
   Ensure substrate is flat, clean, and prepared by a licensed installer.
   
2. Apply Thin Set:
   Spread thin set on the wall or floor using a trowel. Back-butter each tile to ensure proper adhesion. Use more or less thin set to account for tile thickness variation.
   
3. Leveling:
   Place each tile individually, adjusting for height with your hand or tile wedges. Zellige does not use standard spacers—irregular edges and small gaps are part of the design.
4. Cutting:
   Use a water-cooled tile saw with a diamond blade for all cuts. Mitering can be used for exposed edges.
   

WALL INSTALLATIONS

Tiles may be set edge-to-edge or with a thin 1/16" grout line. Align tiles with wedges if needed. Layouts can be flush or spaced depending on your desired look.

FLOOR INSTALLATIONS

2x6 tiles are most traditional for floors. Use a minimum 1/8" grout joint. Layouts can be staggered to increase slip resistance. Smaller mesh-mounted mosaics can be laid as-is or removed from mesh for more control.

WET OR COMMERCIAL AREAS

For bathrooms, showers, pools, and other wet zones:

• Use appropriate waterproofing and sealers
  
• Glazed Zellige has a DCOF rating of 0.16; use wider grout joints or anti-slip treatments if needed
  
• Always consult with a professional installer for slip concerns
  

CURING TIME

Allow tiles to cure for at least 48 hours before sealing or grouting.

GROUTING

1. Grouting is required. Dry-stacking is not recommended as grout protects the tile edges.
2. Use Mapei Ultracolor Plus FA (or Mapei Flexcolor CQ for unglazed).
   
3. Fill all joints and surface pits with grout.
   
4. Wipe excess grout off immediately with a damp sponge—do not allow grout to dry on the tile surface.
   

SEALING FOR UNGLAZED ZELLIGE (!)

Apply 511 Porous Plus Sealer before grouting to prevent stains. After grouting and curing, apply FILA Matte Wax Sealer in thin coats. Do not overapply. Do not use FILA Matte Wax outdoors.

FOR GLAZED ZELLIGE

Seal grout lines only (optional) after installation using a penetrating grout sealer.

TRIM & FINISHING

We recommend tiling floor-to-ceiling or ending tile flush with drywall. For exposed edges, miter cuts create a clean, custom-finished look.

If trim is required, Schluter strips offer a clean solution and are widely available.

ONGOING MAINTENANCE

Zellige will develop a beautiful patina over time—this is expected and desirable.

Routine Cleaning:

• Sweep or vacuum regularly
  
• Clean with neutral pH cleaner (e.g. Miracle Sealants)
  
• Promptly wipe spills, especially oils on unglazed tile

Re-Sealing:

• Unglazed tiles should be re-sealed periodically, depending on use and exposure.
  
• Glazed tiles typically do not require ongoing sealing.
  

FINAL THOUGHTS

Installing Zellige is both an art and a craft. Every detail—from the layout to the grout color—affects the final look. Work with a trusted installer, take the time to curate, and embrace the character of this ancient material.

Need more inspiration? Visit @newyorkcementtile on Instagram or our website to explore project examples and grout color combinations.

Do Zellige tiles need to be sealed?

Zellige tiles are naturally porous, and sealing requirements depend on the tile’s use:

• For exterior applications, we recommend using STONETECH® Heavy Duty Exterior Sealer by LATICRETE®.
  
• For glazed tiles with crazing, unglazed natural Zellige, or when using contrasting grout, apply STONETECH® Heavy Duty Sealer as a pre-grout treatment.
  
• For dry applications with glazed Zellige, sealing post-installation is typically not necessary.
  
• For general protection, STONETECH® BulletProof® Sealer is our go-to.
  

Always consult your installer or our team for guidance based on your unique space.

Do you offer trim pieces for Zellige?

Zellige installations traditionally don’t include trim. Instead, here are a few expert solutions:

• Mitered edges for corners provide the cleanest finish
  
• Painted drywall edges to match tile color offer a seamless look.
  
• Caulk or grout beads can be applied along the tile edge.
  
• Built-out sheetrock can be finished flush to the tile face.
  

What’s the best way to clean and maintain Zellige?

Zellige develops a natural patina over time—this is part of its charm. Here’s how to keep it clean:

• Use pH-neutral soap and water.
  
• Avoid abrasive scrubbers or acidic cleaners.
  
• For deeper cleaning, we recommend products from LATICRETE®.
  

What finish should I expect?

• Most of our Zellige tiles feature a high-gloss glaze, bringing out color depth and natural variation.

• The Natural Zellige is unglazed with a matte, raw texture.
  
  
• Some styles, like Charred Cedar, feature a textured satin finish.
  

How much variation is normal?

Each tile is handcrafted from natural clay and fired in traditional earthen kilns, meaning no two pieces are identical. Expect variation in:

• Color and tone
• Surface texture (pits, specks, crazing)
• Size and thickness
  

We recommend mixing tiles from all boxes before installation for a balanced look. If you’re after perfect uniformity, Zellige may not be the right fit.

Sampling tips?

Zellige tiles are all about character. We suggest sampling more than one piece to get a full sense of the texture, tone, and variation.

Will my order look like my sample?

Due to natural materials and traditional production methods, there will be differences between samples and your full order. We recommend ordering enough upfront to avoid mismatched add-ons.

What should I expect upon delivery?

Our tiles ship directly from Morocco and are packed with care—but:

• Sawdust or fine debris may be present to protect the tiles.
  
• Always inspect and clean tiles prior to installation.
  

Are 2"x2" tiles available on sheets?

Yes—2"x2" tiles can be mounted to mesh or face-mounted plastic sheets for easier installation. Reach out for lead times and ordering details.

Why order extra tiles?

We strongly recommend ordering at least 15% extra for cuts, breakage, or future repairs.

Zellige tiles can include imperfections like:

• Chips and pits, especially on corners
  
• Crazing or hairline crack
  
• Color and size variation
  

For precise layouts or cherry-picking, consider ordering 20–30% extra.

Can I order more tile later if I run short?

Due to the nature of handmade Zellige, reordering the same tile may result in noticeable variation. We always recommend ordering enough from the start to complete your project.

Let us know if you have any other questions—we’re here to help make your tile journey beautiful and stress-free.
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