Installation of Zellige and Bejmat Tiles – glazed Terracotta
This guide is complementary to general knowledge of tile installation. The tile installer should therefore read these instructions before work begins. The client and/or end user may also benefit from being familiar with the installation process. At the end of this document, a cleaning guide is provided, which the user should follow when cleaning.
Please read these instructions carefully, as we do not accept claims once the tiles have been installed. If needed, contact Villa Fliser for advice before starting the installation process. Minor transport damage to the tiles, such as chipped edges or similar, is not covered by warranty or claims. A standard waste allowance of at least 10% must therefore be observed to account for cutting and potential minor damage.
Villa’s handmade terracotta tiles, Zellige and Bejmat, are produced using approximately 1,000-year-old traditional craftsmanship techniques. The tiles are handmade and therefore display intentional irregularities, variations in colour shades, and small chips. These characteristics are an inherent part of the product and are not grounds for complaint.
Installation Process – Zellige Wall Tiles
- Install the tiles with 1–3 mm grout joints.
- Mix tiles from several boxes during installation.
- Apply a generous amount of tile adhesive to compensate for height differences between tiles.
- Inspect the tiles and, if necessary, set aside tiles that fall outside the desired overall appearance.
- Agree with the client/builder on the desired visual result before installation.
Install the tiles using the “string line” principle to achieve straight grout lines. Each tile is unique, as the tiles are both hand-moulded and hand-cut, meaning that all dimensions vary.
Grout the tiles using a grout colour that closely matches the tile colour. If in doubt, consult Villa Fliser regarding grout colour selection. Grout only small areas at a time. Clean off excess grout continuously and thoroughly.
Before grouting, the tiles will appear uneven (“toothed”). This is levelled out by the grout, creating the sought-after wavy appearance. Any grout residue that overlaps onto adjacent tiles should be wiped off immediately.
Installation Process – Zellige Floor Tiles and Bejmat
These tiles are hand-moulded but not hand-cut and are most commonly used for floor applications due to their thickness.
Follow the same installation instructions as described above for Zellige wall tiles.
Cleaning and Maintenance
For daily cleaning, use warm water with a universal cleaning agent.
The tiles tolerate acidic cleaning products down to a pH value of approximately 5.5 and alkaline cleaning products up to a pH value of approximately 11. Limescale can easily be removed during regular cleaning using a scouring sponge, universal cleaner, and warm water. Acidic cleaners may be used in cases of severe limescale build-up.
For commercial cleaning or particularly frequent cleaning, Villa Fliser can be contacted for individual advice.
