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Zellige Tile Installation Challenges and Considerations This document outlines the unique characteristics of Zellige tiles and the potential challenges you might encounter during installation.

HANDCRAFTED BEAUTY, REQUIRES PLANNING: Zellige tiles, unlike their mass-produced counterparts, are handmade from clay. This handcrafting process creates variations in thickness, size, and shape, resulting in a beautiful yet irregular product. Achieving a balanced and aesthetically pleasing layout requires: • Template creation : Lay out the tiles beforehand to create a visually appealing design. • Patience : Precise placement and adjustments take time. • Keen eye for detail : Embrace the Uneven: Zellige's inherent variations contribute to its overall beauty. • Grout application : Requires a steady hand and an understanding of how to adjust gaps for visual harmony. • Mandatory mock up approval : Create an agreed upon sample board size with the desired pattern and grout joint for approval by all parties involved. If a grout joint is not specified, all parties need to be made aware of the impact on the tile assemblies this may cause. The mock up needs to be grouted for final approval . CHOOSING THE RIGHT MATERIALS: • Adhesive : Standard tile adhesives may not be suitable. Opt for an adhesive with extended open time, flexibility, and strong bond strength to prevent tile movement or cracking. Consult your mortar supplier for recommendations. • Wet-dip process : Many manufacturers require soaking the tiles before installation to prevent the adhesive from drying too quickly. GROUTING AND FINISHING TOUCHES: • Pre-grouting treatment : Consult your grout manufacturer for recommendations on treating the tiles to prevent staining and ensure proper adhesion. • Grout selection : Grout type (consider sanded grout for uneven surfaces) and color significantly impact the final result. Perform a mock-up to confirm compatibility and desired aesthetics. SAFETY AND IMPERFECTIONS: • Sharp edges : Be aware of the deceptively sharp, hand chipped edges of Zellige tiles, especially when creating mitered corners. Wear appropriate protection. Straight lines and perfect grids are not achievable with Zellige. Mastering uneven-width grouting is key:

• Imperfections as charm : Hairline cracks and slight variations in color and glaze are inherent to Zellige and contribute to their rustic appeal. However, distinguish between acceptable "character marks" and potential structural issues before installation. WASTE AND ORDERING: • Extra is essential : Factor in waste for cutting and breakage. Many manufacturers recommend ordering 25% more tiles to account for these possibilities and allow for selection of tiles without unwanted characteristics. EMBRACE THE ART OF INSTALLATION: • Patience is key : Installing Zellige is an art form requiring meticulous attention to detail. Rushing the process can lead to uneven and frustrating results. • Communication is crucial : Discuss the handcrafted nature and limitations of Zellige with your client before installation. • Information is power: Contact your Zellige tile supplier and request an installation data sheet for specific recommendations.

Photo courtesy of ©Tilesofezra.

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NTCA Reference Manual | 2024 / 2025

Chapter 5 | Material Specific Products and Installation