Moroccan tiles are celebrated across the world for their rich colors, intricate patterns, and handcrafted charm. Whether you’re using Moroccan zellige tiles for a splash of artisanal texture or laying down Moroccan floor tiles to create a bold, geometric statement, one detail can make or break your entire design: the grout.

While grout might seem like an afterthought in the tile installation process, it plays a crucial role in both the appearance and longevity of your tiles. In this article, we’ll walk you through the best practices for grouting Moroccan tiles—so your project doesn’t just look beautiful, but stays that way for years to come.

Why Grout Matters with Moroccan Tiles

Grout serves more than a structural purpose—it frames each tile, enhances color contrasts, fills gaps, and protects against moisture. With Moroccan tiles, especially handmade ones like Moroccan zellige tiles, the spacing and grout lines are highly visible due to slight irregularities in shape.

Here’s why grout deserves your full attention:

• It seals out moisture, preventing water from getting underneath tiles.

• It highlights or blends tile patterns, depending on your chosen color.

• It enhances durability, especially in high-traffic zones where Moroccan floor tiles are used.

• It compensates for tile variation, which is common in artisanal Moroccan designs.

Step-by-Step Grouting Best Practices for Moroccan Tiles

Whether you’re tiling a backsplash, floor, or bathroom wall, follow these detailed best practices to achieve a clean, professional-looking installation.

1. Choose the Right Grout Type

There are several grout types available, but not all are suitable for Moroccan tiles.

✅ Recommended:

• Unsanded grout is best for narrow joints (less than 1/8 inch) and delicate tiles like Moroccan zellige tiles. It’s smooth and less likely to scratch.

• Sanded grout is more durable for wider joints, especially in Moroccan floor tile applications. However, avoid it with glazed or delicate surfaces, as it may scratch the tile face.

❌ Avoid:

• Epoxy grout unless specified by the tile manufacturer—it can be too harsh for porous or uneven surfaces.

Tip: Always test your grout on a sample tile first.

2. Consider Grout Color Carefully

Color dramatically affects the final look of your tile layout. With patterned or colored Moroccan tiles, grout color can either blend in or provide a striking contrast.

Color Tips:

• Neutral or matching grout blends seamlessly, letting the tiles take center stage.

• Contrasting grout highlights each tile’s edges—ideal for geometric Moroccan floor tiles or monochrome zellige walls.

• White grout offers a clean finish but may discolor in high-use areas unless sealed well.

Visit Milota Tiles to compare tile samples with grout swatches before committing to a color.

3. Use Proper Spacing Between Tiles

One of the charms of Moroccan zellige tiles is their handmade, irregular edges. This means uniform spacing can be a challenge—but not impossible.

Spacing Guidelines:

• For zellige tiles, use minimal spacing (~1–2 mm). Let the tile's natural shape determine the spacing visually.

• For floor tiles, maintain consistent spacing with tile spacers—typically 3–5 mm for a clean grout joint.

This helps prevent uneven lines and ensures the grout adheres properly in the gaps.

4. Pre-Seal Porous Tiles Before Grouting

Many Moroccan tiles, especially zellige tiles, are unglazed or semi-glazed and porous. If you grout these without sealing, the grout can stain the surface permanently.

Sealing Tips:

• Apply a penetrating sealer (also called an impregnating sealer) before grouting.

• Let the sealer cure fully—usually 24 hours—before moving to the next step.

• For floor installations, seal again after grouting for added protection.

This pre-sealing process is essential for maintaining the vibrant look of Moroccan tiles.

5. Mix Grout to the Right Consistency

Grout that’s too watery won’t stay in the joints, while grout that’s too thick can be hard to spread and clean.

Ideal consistency:

• Like creamy peanut butter—smooth, not runny, and not crumbly.

• Mix slowly and let it slake (rest) for 10 minutes before applying.

• Stir again before use to ensure even texture.

Avoid shortcuts here—improper mixing can lead to weak grout that crumbles or cracks.

6. Apply Grout Gently and Diagonally

When working with delicate or uneven Moroccan tiles, apply grout with care to avoid dislodging tiles or overfilling joints.

Application Technique:

• Use a rubber float at a 45-degree angle, moving diagonally across tiles.

• Press grout firmly into gaps but avoid forcing it too deep.

• Work in small sections (2–3 sq. ft. at a time) to maintain control.

With zellige or patterned tiles, you may need to use your fingers or a sponge for detail work.

7. Wipe Clean Without Overwashing

Once grout is applied, timing is everything.

Cleaning Steps:

• After 10–15 minutes, use a damp (not wet) sponge to wipe off excess grout.

• Rinse the sponge frequently and wipe in a diagonal motion.

• Avoid using too much water—it can weaken the grout and leave a haze.

Wait 1–2 hours, then polish any remaining haze with a dry microfiber cloth.

8. Seal Again for Long-Term Protection

For Moroccan floor tiles or tiles in wet zones (showers, backsplashes), sealing the grout after it cures (usually 48–72 hours later) is essential.

Use a grout sealer or an all-in-one tile and grout sealer for:

• Water and stain resistance

• Easier cleaning

• Extended tile life

Common Grouting Mistakes to Avoid

Here are some mistakes that can ruin the look of your beautiful Moroccan tiles:

• Using sanded grout on delicate zellige tiles → leads to scratching

• Skipping pre-sealing → results in permanent tile staining

• Over-cleaning grout before it cures → causes crumbling or uneven lines

• Inconsistent spacing → leads to crooked lines and patchy appearance

• Choosing the wrong grout color → diminishes the tile’s visual impact

Conclusion: Let Grout Enhance Your Moroccan Tile Design

Grouting may seem like a technical chore, but with Moroccan tiles, it's part of the art. Whether you’re installing handcrafted Moroccan zellige tiles in a bathroom or bold, geometric Moroccan floor tiles in a hallway, proper grouting makes all the difference in both durability and style.

By following the best practices shared above—choosing the right grout, pre-sealing, spacing tiles properly, and sealing the final finish—you ensure your installation not only looks clean but lasts for decades.

For high-quality Moroccan tiles and expert guidance, visit Milota Tiles and explore our curated collection of artisanal tilework designed to elevate your space.