Complete Installation Guide for Moroccan Tiles

Handcrafted in Fez. Installed with Care. Timeless Everywhere.

Welcome to the My Moroccan Tile Installation Guide. Every tile we create is shaped, glazed, and fired by hand in the historic workshops of Fez, Morocco—continuing a thousand-year tradition of artisan craftsmanship. This guide will help you install your authentic Moroccan tiles with confidence, preserving their beauty and ensuring a flawless, long-lasting result.

Quick Navigation

• Before You Begin
• Zellige Tile Installation
• Mosaic Tile Installation
• Terracotta Tile Installation
• Hand-Painted Tile Installation
• Grouting Your Tiles
• Repairing Damaged Tiles During Installation
• Troubleshooting Common Issues
• Quick Reference Chart
• Questions? We're Here to Help

Before You Begin: Understanding Handcrafted Tiles

Moroccan tiles are not machine-made. Each piece is individually shaped by hand, glazed with natural pigments, and fired in traditional kilns. This artisan process creates subtle variations in size, thickness, color, and surface texture—these are authentic features, not defects.

What to Expect:

• Size Variations: Tiles may vary by ±2mm. This is normal and intentional.
• Thickness Variations: Handcrafted tiles are not perfectly uniform in thickness.
• Color Variations: Natural glazes create tonal shifts and depth—no two tiles are identical.
• Surface Texture: Slight waves, pinholes, and glaze pooling are signatures of authentic craftsmanship.
• Lime Pops: Small surface imperfections caused by natural lime in Fez clay—part of the tile's heritage.

Important: Do not attempt to "correct" these variations. They are what make your installation unique and authentic.

Extra Tiles Included: Your order includes extra pieces for repairs. If tiles break or become damaged during installation, follow the repair protocol in the Repairing Damaged Tiles section below.

Zellige Tile Installation

Zellige tiles are hand-cut from larger glazed slabs and are among the most iconic Moroccan tiles. Their irregular edges and slight size variations require specific installation techniques.

Materials You'll Need:

• Thinset: White polymer-modified thinset (e.g., Laticrete 254 Platinum, Mapei Kerabond)
• Trowel: 3/16" × 5/32" V-notch or 1/4" × 1/4" square-notch
• Grout: Unsanded grout in a complementary color
• Grout Width: 1/8" to 3/16" (natural spacing)
• Spacers: NOT RECOMMENDED—allow tiles to find their natural spacing

Step-by-Step Installation:

1. Prepare the Surface: Ensure substrate is clean, level, and dry. Zellige can be installed on cement board, drywall (for backsplashes), or concrete.
2. Dry Layout: Lay out tiles without adhesive to plan your pattern and color distribution. Mix tiles from multiple boxes for color variation.
3. Apply Thinset: Spread thinset on the wall or floor using your notched trowel. Work in small sections (2-3 sq ft at a time).
4. Back-Butter Each Tile: Apply a thin layer of thinset to the back of each tile. This is non-negotiable for handcrafted tiles to ensure full adhesion.
5. Press and Set: Press each tile firmly into place with a slight twisting motion. Do not slide tiles—this can cause lippage.
6. Allow Natural Spacing: Let the tiles settle into their natural spacing (1/8" to 3/16"). Do not use spacers. The irregular edges of zellige create organic grout lines.
7. Level as You Go: Use a straight edge to check for lippage. Adjust tiles while thinset is wet.
8. Cure: Allow thinset to cure for 24-48 hours before grouting.

Pro Tips:

• Zellige tiles have a glazed face and unglazed back. The back is porous and absorbs thinset well.
• Work slowly and methodically—rushing leads to uneven surfaces.
• Keep a damp sponge nearby to wipe excess thinset from tile faces immediately.
• No spacers: The beauty of zellige is in its natural, irregular grout lines.

Mosaic Tile Installation

Our mosaic tiles arrive pre-assembled with epoxy backing, making installation 60-70% faster than traditional loose-tile mosaics. Each mosaic is carefully fitted by artisans in Fez to ensure pattern accuracy. The rigid epoxy backing allows for easy cutting with a wet saw and eliminates the need for spacers.

Materials You'll Need:

• Thinset: White polymer-modified thinset
• Trowel: 3/16" × 3/16" square-notch (smaller notch for intricate patterns)
• Grout: Unsanded grout
• Grout Width: 1/16" to 1/8" (pre-set by artisan assembly)
• Spacers: NOT NEEDED—tiles are pre-spaced on epoxy backing

Step-by-Step Installation:

1. Prepare the Surface: Substrate must be perfectly flat and smooth. Any unevenness will telegraph through the mosaic.
2. Dry Layout: Lay out mosaic sheets to plan seams and pattern alignment.
3. Apply Thinset: Spread a thin, even layer of thinset on the substrate. Use a smaller notch trowel to avoid excess squeeze-out.
4. Back-Butter the Epoxy Backing: Lightly back-butter the epoxy backing (not individual tiles) to ensure full contact.
5. Press Firmly: Press the entire mosaic sheet into the thinset with even pressure. Use a flat trowel or grout float to press uniformly.
6. Do Not Adjust Individual Tiles: The tiles are pre-fitted by artisans. Moving individual pieces will disrupt the pattern.
7. Align Seams Carefully: Where sheets meet, ensure patterns align. Small adjustments can be made while thinset is wet.
8. Cure: Allow 24-48 hours before grouting.

Pro Tips:

• The epoxy backing makes mosaics rigid and stable—easier to handle and install than mesh-backed alternatives.
• Use minimal thinset—excess will squeeze up between tiles and create a mess.
• Epoxy-backed mosaics can be cut cleanly with a wet saw for edges and corners.
• No spacers needed: Spacing is pre-set by artisans during assembly.

Terracotta Tile Installation

Terracotta tiles are unglazed, porous, and require special care during installation. Pre-sealing is mandatory to prevent grout staining.

Materials You'll Need:

• Thinset: Gray or white polymer-modified thinset
• Trowel: 1/4" × 1/4" or 1/4" × 3/8" square-notch (depending on tile size)
• Grout: Sanded grout (for joints wider than 1/8")
• Grout Width: 1/4" to 3/8"
• Sealer: Penetrating sealer (e.g., Aqua Mix Sealer's Choice Gold, Miracle 511)
• Spacers: Use tile spacers to maintain consistent grout lines

Step-by-Step Installation:

1. Pre-Seal the Tiles: Before installation, apply 1-2 coats of penetrating sealer to all terracotta tiles. Let dry completely (24 hours).
2. Prepare the Surface: Substrate must be level, clean, and dry. Terracotta is typically installed on concrete or cement board.
3. Dry Layout: Plan your layout, mixing tiles from multiple boxes to distribute color variation.
4. Apply Thinset: Spread thinset using a notched trowel. Work in small sections.
5. Back-Butter Each Tile: Apply thinset to the back of each tile for full coverage and adhesion.
6. Set Tiles with Spacers: Press firmly with a twisting motion. Use spacers to maintain consistent grout lines.
7. Check for Lippage: Terracotta tiles can vary in thickness. Use a level and adjust as needed.
8. Cure: Allow 48-72 hours before grouting (terracotta absorbs moisture, so longer cure times are recommended).
9. Grout: Use sanded grout. Work carefully to avoid staining.
10. Final Seal: After grouting, apply 2-3 additional coats of penetrating sealer. This protects against stains and moisture.

Pro Tips:

• Never skip pre-sealing. Unsealed terracotta will absorb grout and stain permanently.
• Terracotta is softer than glazed tiles—handle with care to avoid chipping.
• For high-traffic areas, consider a topical sealer for added protection.

Hand-Painted Tile Installation

Hand-painted tiles feature intricate designs painted by artisans. Each tile is a work of art and should be treated with care.

Materials You'll Need:

• Thinset: White polymer-modified thinset
• Trowel: 1/4" × 1/4" square-notch
• Grout: Unsanded or finely sanded grout in a neutral color
• Grout Width: 1/8" to 1/4"
• Spacers: Use tile spacers for consistent grout lines

Step-by-Step Installation:

1. Dry Layout: Plan your design carefully. Hand-painted tiles often form larger murals or patterns.
2. Prepare the Surface: Ensure substrate is smooth, clean, and level.
3. Apply Thinset: Spread thinset evenly on the substrate.
4. Back-Butter Each Tile: Apply a thin layer of thinset to the back of each tile.
5. Set Tiles with Spacers: Press each tile into place, ensuring pattern alignment. Use spacers for consistent grout lines.
6. Clean Immediately: Wipe any thinset from the tile face immediately with a damp sponge. Dried thinset can damage painted surfaces.
7. Cure: Allow 24-48 hours before grouting.

Pro Tips:

• Hand-painted tiles are decorative and best suited for low-traffic areas like backsplashes and accent walls.
• Avoid abrasive cleaners—use only pH-neutral cleaners on painted surfaces.

Grouting Your Tiles

Grouting is the final step that brings your installation together. Proper grouting technique ensures a clean, professional finish.

General Grouting Guidelines:

• Unsanded Grout: For grout joints 1/8" or narrower (zellige, mosaics, hand-painted tiles)
• Sanded Grout: For grout joints wider than 1/8" (terracotta, larger format tiles)
• Grout Color: Choose a color that complements your tiles. Neutral tones (white, cream, gray) are safest.

Step-by-Step Grouting:

1. Ensure Thinset is Cured: Wait at least 24-48 hours after installation (48-72 hours for terracotta).
2. Mix Grout: Follow manufacturer instructions.
3. Mix Grout: Follow manufacturer instructions. Grout should be the consistency of peanut butter.
4. Apply Grout: Use a rubber grout float held at a 45-degree angle. Press grout firmly into joints, working diagonally across tiles.
5. Remove Excess: After 10-15 minutes, use the float to scrape excess grout from the tile surface.
6. Sponge Clean: Use a damp (not wet) sponge to wipe tiles clean. Rinse sponge frequently. Avoid pulling grout out of joints.
7. Haze Removal: After 1-2 hours, buff away any grout haze with a clean, dry microfiber cloth.
8. Cure: Allow grout to cure for 24-72 hours before exposing to moisture.
9. Seal (if needed): For terracotta, apply final sealer coats after grouting.

Pro Tips:

• Work in small sections—grout sets quickly.
• For zellige and mosaics, be gentle during sponging to avoid disturbing grout in narrow joints.
• Change sponge water frequently to prevent grout residue from re-depositing on tiles.

Repairing Damaged Tiles During Installation

Handcrafted tiles can occasionally crack or break during installation. We include extra tiles with every order specifically for this purpose. Follow this protocol to replace damaged tiles without disrupting your installation.

Important: Do NOT Remove Broken Tiles Immediately

If a tile cracks or breaks during installation while the thinset is still wet:

• Leave the broken tile in place. Do not remove it immediately.
• The crack lines show you the exact alignment and spacing of the tile within your pattern.
• Removing a broken tile too early can disrupt surrounding tiles and make proper replacement difficult.

Step-by-Step Repair Process:

1. Leave Broken Tile in Place: Allow the thinset to cure fully (24-48 hours) with the broken tile still installed.
2. Mark the Tile: If needed, mark the broken tile with painter's tape so you can easily identify it after curing.
3. Wait for Full Cure: Once the thinset has cured completely, the surrounding tiles will be locked in place.
4. Extract the Broken Tile: Carefully remove the broken tile using a chisel or oscillating multi-tool. Work slowly to avoid damaging adjacent tiles.
5. Clean the Substrate: Remove all old thinset from the substrate. The surface should be clean and level.
6. Install Replacement Tile: Apply fresh thinset to the substrate and back-butter the replacement tile. Press firmly into place, matching the alignment of surrounding tiles.
7. Level and Adjust: Ensure the replacement tile is flush with adjacent tiles. Use a straight edge to check.
8. Cure Before Grouting: Allow the replacement tile to cure for 24-48 hours before grouting.

Why This Method Works:

• The crack lines act as a visual guide for proper alignment.
• Surrounding tiles remain undisturbed and fully cured.
• Replacement tiles fit seamlessly into the pattern.
• This method prevents gaps, misalignment, and lippage issues.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Even with careful installation, challenges can arise. Here are solutions to the most common issues:

Lippage (Uneven Tile Surfaces)

Cause: Thickness variations in handcrafted tiles, uneven substrate, or insufficient back-buttering.

Solution:

• Always back-butter every tile to compensate for thickness variations.
• Use a level or straight edge frequently during installation.
• Adjust tiles while thinset is still wet by pressing down high spots or adding more thinset under low spots.
• For severe substrate unevenness, apply a leveling compound before tiling.

Thinset Squeeze-Out Between Tiles

Cause: Too much thinset applied, or pressing tiles too hard.

Solution:

• Use the correct trowel size for your tile type (see reference chart below).
• Apply even pressure when setting tiles—don't force them.
• Wipe excess thinset from tile faces and grout joints immediately with a damp sponge.

Grout Staining (Especially on Terracotta)

Cause: Porous tiles not properly sealed before grouting.

Solution:

• Prevention is key: Always pre-seal terracotta tiles before installation.
• If staining occurs, try a poultice cleaner designed for natural stone and terracotta.
• For stubborn stains, consult a professional tile restoration service.

Tiles Not Adhering Properly

Cause: Dusty substrate, expired thinset, or insufficient back-buttering.

Solution:

• Clean substrate thoroughly before applying thinset—remove all dust, debris, and grease.
• Use fresh, properly mixed thinset (check expiration dates).
• Always back-butter handcrafted tiles for maximum adhesion.
• Ensure 95%+ thinset coverage on the back of each tile.

Cracked Tiles After Installation

Cause: Voids under tiles (insufficient thinset coverage), substrate movement, or impact damage.

Solution:

• Always back-butter tiles to eliminate voids.
• Ensure substrate is stable and properly installed (no flex in floors, no movement in walls).
• For cracked tiles, follow the repair protocol in the Repairing Damaged Tiles section.

Uneven Grout Lines (Zellige & Mosaics)

Cause: This is normal and intentional for handcrafted tiles.

Solution:

• Zellige tiles have irregular edges—grout lines will naturally vary. This is part of their authentic charm.
• Do not use spacers on zellige or mosaics—let tiles find their natural spacing.
• Embrace the organic, artisan aesthetic.

Mosaic Tiles Coming Loose from Backing

Cause: Rough handling or excessive force during installation.

Solution:

• Handle mosaic sheets gently—the epoxy backing is strong but tiles can dislodge with rough treatment.
• If a tile comes loose, re-adhere it with a small dab of thinset before the sheet is installed.
• Once installed and cured, individual tiles are locked in place by thinset and grout.

Quick Reference Chart

Universal Installation Rules:

• Always back-butter every tile—this is non-negotiable for handcrafted tiles.
• Mix tiles from multiple boxes to distribute color variation evenly.
• Work slowly and methodically—rushing leads to mistakes.
• Clean as you go—remove excess thinset and grout immediately.
• Allow proper cure times—patience ensures a long-lasting installation.

Questions? We're Here to Help

Installing authentic Moroccan tiles is a rewarding process, but we understand that questions can arise. Our team is here to support you every step of the way—from planning your layout to troubleshooting installation challenges.

Contact Us:

• Phone: +212-661 46 5751 (WhatsApp available)
• Email: sales@mymoroccantile.com
• Website: mymoroccantile.com

We Can Help With:

• Choosing the right thinset, grout, and sealer for your project
• Planning layouts and calculating quantities
• Troubleshooting installation issues via phone or video call
• Recommending experienced installers in your area
• Providing additional technical guidance and support

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• Instagram: @mymoroccantile
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• Twitter: @mymoroccantile

Thank you for choosing My Moroccan Tile. We're honored to bring the artisan traditions of Fez into your home, and we're committed to ensuring your installation is a success.

Handcrafted in Fez. Installed with Care. Timeless Everywhere.