Zellige and Bejmat tile installation|Tips & Tricks

Handcrafted, full of character, and unlike any other, bejmat and Zellige tiles bring centuries of Moroccan tradition into modern homes. Because each piece is handmade, installation comes with its own unique steps. The good news? With a skilled installer and the right preparation, laying bejmat and Zellige can be a smooth, rewarding process. Here’s everything you need to know before creating your dream Moroccan-tiled space.
Step 1: Inspect Your Tiles :Once your shipment of Moroccan handmade tile arrives, take time to unpack and inspect the pieces. Small pits, hairline cracks, and surface variations are part of their natural charm they’re not flaws, but proof of authentic craftsmanship.👉 Pro tip: Mix tiles from different boxes as you go. Each batch is slightly different in shade, and blending them ensures a beautifully balanced, mottled finish.
Step 2: Making the Cut :Before installation, measure carefully and prep your surface. For clean cuts, use a water-cooled tile saw with a diamond blade or a quality tile cutter. While bejmat and Zellige naturally vary in thickness, your base surface should be as level as possible to create a consistent layout.
Step 3: Thinset & Placement :Spread thinnest on both your surface and the back of each tile. Install tiles edge to edge with little to no spacing, just as they’re traditionally laid in Morocco. You’ll still need grout to fill micro-gaps we recommend a grout color that matches your tile, applied with a grout bag to avoid staining.
Step 4: Special Care for Unglazed Tiles
If you’ve chosen unglazed bejmat or Zellige, a few extra steps are key:
· Soak tiles before applying Thinset.
· Seal tiles both before and after grouting to protect their porous surface.
We recommend 511 Porous Plus Sealer by Miracle Sealants for lasting protection. Though they take more care, the raw beauty of unglazed Moroccan tile is unmatched.
Step 5: Where to Use Bejmat & Zellige
Not sure where to showcase your Moroccan tile? Here are some ideas:
· Zellige tiles: Stunning for backsplashes, fireplace surrounds, or shower walls.
· Bejmat tiles: Perfect as statement floors in low-traffic areas or as striking wall accents.
Whether indoors or outdoors, these tiles bring texture, light, and artistry to any project.
From Morocco to Your Home
At Moroccan Mosaic & Tile House, we’re proud to bring you authentic Zellige tiles handcrafted by Moroccan artisans. With over 25 colors and four distinct cuts to choose from, you’ll find the perfect shape and shade for your design. Based in Nevada, we ship worldwide so your dream space is just an order away.
Contact our Team: Sales@mosaicmorocco.com