Moroccan tiles

Port-U-Palace is specialized in Moroccan tiles, glazed and unglazed wall and floor decorations in particular. In the rich assortment of Moroccan tiles there are also tiles and flagstones that were produced in Italy, Spain, Portugal and England. A large part (over 1000 types of Moroccan tiles) of the assortment is in stock. The Moroccan tiles are a beautiful (and qualitatively very good) addition to the supply of Port-U-Palace. By using classic designs and creative (contemporary) variants the walls and floors get a strong and authentic appearance. The Portuguese, Spanish and Moroccan decorative tiles are obtained directly from the factory. The quality is therefore guaranteed. Most of the decorative tiles have been tested frost proof to –10C. Apart from Moroccan floor tiles there are also Moroccan zelliges. More information about these in the chapter Moroccan zelliges

Portuguese Moroccan cement tiles are pressed tiles, 100% handmade, manufactured by craftsmen that keep up a meticulous technique. From the preparation of the paint to the final drying of these tiles they take all the care required to guarantee that things are done under the required circumstances and with the quality demanded by the factory.

And therefore our care also extends after delivery of the product, so that these Moroccan tiles can be received, layed and used in the right way. Producing a final result that is in accordance with the demands of our customers. Because of this philosophy we, Portupalace, give some extensive instructions to follow.

The pressed cement tiles from Portupalace must always be kept in a covered space and on pallets, to prevent the surface from getting wet as a result of rainfall, as the cardboard of the boxes, when wet, can cause staining on the surface.

When the Portuguese mosaic tiles are taken from the box to lay them, always stack them in the same way they were packed, with the surfaces of the tiles against each other. This prevents scratching.

The Moroccan mosaic tiles can be layed with cement (for indoor or outdoor use) and a toothed tile trowel. Because these are traditional tiles (handmade) it is normal that minimal differences in thickness (+/- 2 mm) occur. That is why we recommend the tiler to use a large trowel when laying the tiles.

The tiler must take care that he applies the glue, some glue is also applied to the corners of the Portuguese tiles, to prevent them from coming undone after laying.

The pressed Moroccan tiles are always layed with a “dry joint”, in other words no room is left between the tiles as with ceramic tiles, with the exception of a number of conditions in which a minimum space of 1 to 2 mm can be applied.

Observation: never tap the Portuguese tiles with the handle of a hammer, as is customary when laying ceramic tiles, as, apart from scratches (especially in bright colours), this can damage or jam the tiles in other ways. These little cracks are not visible during tiling, only when the tiles are treated with resin or when they are mopped. If the Moroccan tiles are damaged they must be sanded with 200-grid water sandpaper.

When cement is spilled during tiling with Moroccan cement tiles we advise to clean this immediately with a clean, wet sponge to prevent the cement/glue from reaching the surface and penetrating. All the same we recommend sanding the tiles lightly with 100-grid water sandpaper.

The pressed tiles are very porous (before treatment with resin). Therefore we always advise, when the location is determined but still in use as a passageway, to cover the tiles with plastic and on top of that blister padding and cardboard. Never put cardboard or newspapers directly onto the floor as these may stain.

Check whether the tiles are clean and dust free before treating them with resin. When this is not the case we recommend to sweep the surface with a soft broom or to mop it with water and a neutral soap. Never wash the surface with hydrochloric acid or other acids, chemicals or comparable products. If the stains persist contact the manufacturer for the required instructions.

Check that the mopped cement tiles are completely dry. Wet Portuguese tiles must not be impregnated because this can cause staining.

To impregnate the tile use a non-fluffy cloth.

Always apply 2-3 layers with intervals of 1 hour between each layer. The layers must be applied in the same direction (in straight lines) and not crosswise.

For daily maintenance it is recommended to apply a colourless wax with a squeegee every 15 days, or when you notice that the surface becomes dull. When it is necessary to clean the surface, use water and a neutral soap. The wax or soft soap protects the Portuguese floor tiles and therefore it is best to apply it regularly.

A reminder: Pressed tiles are a traditional product and should never be compared with industrially manufactured tiles, like ceramic ones, as some minimal imperfections make them unique and give the pressed tile its charm and value.

A personal advice without any obligations? Contact us at Portupalace.