Here you can learn all you need to know about Zellige tiles. These unique and exquisite tiles are an exquisitely unique product that showcases the versatility of terracotta. Explore this page to discover the beautiful ways Zellige tiles can be used to enhance the spaces in your home.
Zellige tile (also known as Zelige) is a special type of terracotta that originates from Morocco. Classic Moroccan Zellige tile is fired over a kiln, which helps each tile achieve a distinctive glaze, texture, and color. Machine-made Zellige tile is made in bulk, while classic Zellige tile is handmade and one-of-a-kind.
Morrocan Zellige tiles have roots stemming back to the days of the Moors when tilework was composed into striking works of art using a plaster base to set geometric-shaped tiles in exciting and exquisite patterns.
You can install Zellige tile nearly everywhere, except for areas that frequently freeze and thaw. Zellige tile can be placed in many areas around the home for a luxury result. They are best suited for wall coverings and low-traffic residential floors. Zellige tile fireplaces and Zellige tile backsplashes are particularly popular.
The main advantages of Zellige tiles are their striking beauty and versatility. Their handcrafted look strikes the perfect balance between rustic and elegant. Additionally, you can install Moroccan Zellige tiles in many places around a home or business –– such as on wall coverings, bathroom floors, shower walls, kitchen backsplashes, and fireplaces.
One of the main disadvantages of Zellige tiles is their cost since they are handmade. If you're looking for a budget tile, then Zellige tiles may not be the right choice for you. However, Zellige tiles are a long-lasting, stylish investment that will last many years to come.
Additionally, Zellige tiles are not hardwearing and are not well-suited for high-traffic floors. We recommend them for light, low-impact residential floors and all interior wall coverings.
Yes, you should use grout to install Zellige tiles. The most common (and traditional) application of Zellige tile has the tiles laid edge to edge. There is little to no grout spacing between tiles in this application and it looks the most timeless and authentic. Other designs require the smallest amount of grout spacing to showcase the design’s selected colors and patterns.
Yes, but you should use minimal spacers for Zellige tile flooring and walls. Ideally, no space or grout should be visible around Zellige tiles. Homeowners often request that installers achieve the thinnest possible grout spacing for Zellige designs.
It is possible for Zellige tile to stain over time, especially if the dirt, food, or other debris are left to accumulate on the tile’s surface. The natural luster of your zellige tile will appeared dulled and cloudy without regular cleaning and drying. Therefore, it's best to stay on top of the cleaning as you would with other types of tiles.
Handmade Zellige tiles cost more than tiles made in mass production using machinery. Handmade Zellige tiles cost on average $18-$28 per square foot, whereas machine-made tiles will cost $7-$10 per square foot on average.
Compared to more commonly used types of tile, Zellige tiles are on the pricier end. You can expect Zellige tiles to cost as much as $28 per square foot (or more). Nevertheless, their beauty and longevity are worth the investment – properly installed Zellige tile will easily last for a lifetime.
Homes all across Morocco have walls adorned in Zellige tile backsplash that has held up fabulously for ages. With the proper installation and care you can expect your Zellige tile backsplash to serve your needs just as confidently. In recent years, Zellige tile kitchen backsplashes have become increasingly popular in the US.
The installation of Zellige tile can be tricky, especially for a novice or everyday DIYer. It is best to let the professionals handle Zellige tile installation. Experts can achieve the perfect spacing and make sure your tiles are installed with precision.
For the most part, Zellige is a glazed terracotta that does not require additional sealant when applied. If you install unglazed natural Zellige, then a penetrative sealer is recommended to help seal the surface of your tile. Sealants should be applied before and after grouting to reduce porosity and moisture absorption.
Yes, Zellige tiles can be installed in showers and are beautiful additions. Be sure to use glazed Zellige tiles, as they are waterproof. If you use larger formats, like Zellige 4x4 tiles, on shower floors, be sure to apply a slip-resistant coating to seal grout joints.
Create a fully tiled oasis in your bathroom using Zellige tile in white, grays, blues, or other dynamic colors. Or opt to focus on intricate design in one or two areas of the bathroom to make for visual accent spaces.
You sure can place Zellige tiles in bathrooms. Zellige tile flooring, Zellige tiled bathtubs, and Zellige tiled shower walls are all great ways to use these intricate tiles in your home. Properly applied Zellige bathroom tile will sparkle, especially glazed Zellige styles. The glass enamel layer on top of the tile makes them impermeable to water, so they will not wear down in a moist environment.
When wet, Zellige tiles can indeed be slippery. If you install Zellige tiles on shower floors, be sure to install a slip-resistant coating over grout joints to make them more secure.
Zellige tile pairs well with soapstone. It is a metamorphic rock that conducts heat well and is often used for countertops and fireplaces.
Bejmat tiles are thicker more sturdy versions of traditional Zellige tiles. They are made to serve in areas that see higher traffic where standard Zellige tile may be too fragile.
