Frequently Asked Questions
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Cement
54 questions
Zellige
56 questions
Terracotta
52 questions
Terrazzo
53 questions
Ceramic
52 questions
Porcelain
52 questions
The Essentials 12
Where are LiLi Cement Tiles made?
All of our cement tiles are handmade in Vietnam, where each piece is shaped using traditional methods that have been passed down since the 1850s. The process is slow, steady, and full of craft, the kind you can see in every pattern and feel under every step.
Are LiLi Cement Tiles suitable for wet areas?
Absolutely. LiLi Cement Tiles are right at home in showers and other wet areas, bringing pattern and personality where the water runs. They pass the DCOF slip-resistance test and are suitable for both residential and commercial spaces.The only place we don’t recommend them is inside a swimming pool.
Can LiLi Cement Tiles be installed over heated floors?
Yes. Our cement tiles are perfectly safe over heated floors.
Can LiLi Cement Tiles be installed outside?
Yes — when properly sealed, LiLi cement tiles can be installed almost anywhere except inside a swimming pool or water line. They're perfectly suitable for pool surrounds, outdoor decks, outdoor showers, walkways, and even pavements with proper foundations. We strongly urge using Zeus' Tile Sealer to prevent stains and discoloration.
How soon can I expect my tiles to arrive?
Most in-stock orders ship next business day from our NJ warehouse. Delivery times depend on your location — most customers receive their order within just a few days to a week.
Do I need to use grout?
Since our tiles are not baked in an oven or fired in a kiln they do not shrink or expand, which means they can be installed with or without grout. Most customers choose to use grout on floor installations. Standard grout is not recommended for cement tiles as it contains color pigments that are prone to stain the tiles — please refer only to our suggested quartz-based grout list.
Do I need to seal my cement tiles?
Cement tiles are naturally quite porous, which means that if left unsealed they will absorb liquid and stain. We strongly urge all our tiles to be sealed with Zeus' Tile Sealer — this creates a protective coat to prevent stains from instantly absorbing. As always, we suggest cleaning up spills as soon as possible. Lookin' at you, red wine!
How much extra material do I need to order?
Since cement tiles are handmade, there may be slight variations between lots. We suggest ordering 10–15% extra. This overage accounts for cutting, breakage during installation, a greater range of selection, and extra material for future repairs (future lots may not match).
Which adhesive should I use?
Any standard thinset is perfectly fine (modified or unmodified). Be sure to back-butter each tile before application.
How long does a custom order take? Is there a minimum order quantity?
Since our custom cement tiles are handmade, all custom cement tile orders take 12–14 weeks from order confirmation. Our minimum order quantity for custom cement tiles is 10 boxes. Please note that lead times for custom orders of other tile types may vary.
Do LiLi Cement Tiles have test results?
Yes — you can download the full product data sheet here.
Zellige 10
Where are LiLi Zellige Tiles made?
Our Zellige tiles are handcrafted in Morocco by skilled artisans using traditional techniques that have been practiced for centuries. Each tile is individually shaped and glazed from natural Moroccan clay — fired in kilns the old-fashioned way, the kind of process that leaves a little soul in every piece.
Can LiLi Zellige Tile be installed over heated floors?
Yes, Zellige tiles can be installed on heated floors and are also suitable for steam rooms.
What are the "imperfections" in Zellige tiles, and should I be concerned?
Not one bit. The chips, pits, iron spots, crazing, and color variation you'll notice in Zellige tiles aren't defects — they're the whole point. These are the marks of an authentic, handmade tile, and they're what give Zellige its legendary depth and shimmer. No two tiles are identical, and that's exactly as it should be.
Do I need to seal my Zellige tiles?
Most glazed Zellige tiles don't require sealing thanks to their glossy, fired glaze. However, our unglazed Zellige (like the 920 Fossil colorway) must be sealed before use. When in doubt, we always recommend Zeus' Tile Sealer for extra protection — especially in high-traffic or wet areas.
What color grout should I use with Zellige tiles?
We recommend matching your grout color as closely as possible to the color of your Zellige tiles. Because Zellige is handmade, the edges can be slightly uneven — and a closely matched grout helps those natural variations blend seamlessly into the overall look, rather than drawing attention to them. It's a small detail that makes a big difference in the finished result.
Are Zellige tiles suitable for wet areas like showers?
Yes — Zellige tiles are water-resistant and work beautifully on shower walls, bathroom walls, and backsplashes. Just make sure grout joints are properly sealed to prevent moisture from sneaking through.
Can Zellige mosaic be installed on a shower floor?
Zellige mosaic is not recommended for shower floor installations. While Zellige may be suitable for certain wet areas and floor applications, shower floors have specific performance requirements due to standing water, slope, drainage, and slip-resistance concerns. For this reason, we do not recommend installing Zellige mosaic on shower floors.
Can Zellige tiles be used on floors?
Yes, with a note of care. Zellige tiles are suitable for floors with light traffic. For high-traffic commercial floors, we'd recommend a more heavy-duty option. Their glossy, slightly uneven surface adds beautiful character underfoot — just pair them with the right setting and a proper grout.
How much extra material should I order?
We recommend ordering 15–25% overage to account for cuts, shipping breakage, and future repairs. If you'd prefer a more uniform look with fewer of the characteristic imperfections, ordering 20–30% overage gives you a wider range to hand-select from.
Can Zellige tiles be used outside?
Zellige tiles are best suited for interior applications. Their fired clay body can be more vulnerable to freeze-thaw cycles than denser materials, so we don't recommend them for outdoor use in climates with hard winters. Have questions about your specific project? Reach out — we're happy to help.
Terracotta6
How are LiLi Terracotta Tiles made?
Our terracotta tiles are shaped from natural clay and fired in wood-fired kilns using traditional methods that honor the ancient roots of this material. That firing process is what gives each tile its rich, earthy tones — and because it's done by hand with natural materials, you'll see beautiful variation in color and texture from tile to tile. That's not a flaw; it's the whole character of terracotta.
Do Terracotta tiles need to be sealed?
Yes — always. Terracotta is naturally porous and will stain quickly if left unsealed. We strongly recommend priming with Demeter's Terracotta Primer before grouting, then sealing with Zeus' Tile Sealer after. Clean up spills promptly regardless — red wine included.
Can Terracotta tiles be used outdoors?
Yes, when properly sealed and installed. Terracotta is a beautiful choice for patios, garden paths, and outdoor entertaining areas. Consult our installation guide for best practices.
Are Terracotta tiles suitable for wet areas?
Absolutely. Terracotta tiles are perfectly safe in wet areas like bathrooms and showers — just make sure they're properly primed and sealed, and that grout joints are well sealed to keep moisture from permeating through.
Will my Terracotta tiles all look the same?
Beautifully, no. Natural variation in color, texture, and tone from tile to tile is an inherent quality of handmade terracotta — and it's what makes it so special. We recommend ordering 10–15% overage so you have a good range to work with during installation.
Can Terracotta tiles be installed over radiant heated floors?
Yes. Our terracotta tiles are perfectly safe over radiant heated floors, making them a wonderful choice for bathrooms and kitchens where underfloor heating adds that extra touch of comfort.
Terrazzo7
What exactly is in LiLi Terrazzo tiles?
Our Terrazzo tiles are handcrafted cement tiles with individual terrazzo pieces — and in some styles, mother of pearl — meticulously sprinkled and pressed throughout. The result is a one-of-a-kind tile with the depth and sparkle of classic terrazzo in a fully handcrafted format.
Are Terrazzo tiles handmade?
Yes. Every tile in our Terrazzo collection is hand-pressed by skilled artisans using the same premium cement as our other collections. Slight variations in color and texture are a natural part of the process — and part of the charm.
Do Terrazzo tiles need to be sealed?
Yes. Like all our cement tiles, Terrazzo tiles are porous and should be primed with Poseidon's Tile Primer before grouting, then sealed with Zeus' Tile Sealer after. We recommend re-sealing periodically depending on traffic and use.
Can Terrazzo tiles be used outdoors?
Yes — our Terrazzo tiles are suitable for both indoor and outdoor use. They're a great choice for patios, outdoor kitchens, and covered exterior spaces. One note: these tiles are not recommended for use inside a swimming pool or water line.
Are Terrazzo tiles slip-resistant?
Yes. Our Terrazzo tiles are DCOF tested and slip-resistant in both wet and dry conditions, making them suitable for wet areas like kitchens, bathrooms, and patios.
What grout should I use with Terrazzo tiles?
Standard color-pigmented grout is not recommended, as it can stain the tile surface. Please refer to our suggested quartz-based grout list for safe, compatible options. Grout is especially important for any wet-area application to keep moisture from permeating through the joints.
How much extra material should I order?
We suggest ordering 10–15% overage to account for cuts, breakage during installation, and future repairs. Since these tiles are handmade, future lots may not match exactly.
Ceramic6
What makes LiLi Ceramic tiles different from standard ceramic?
Our Ceramic Collection isn't your average subway tile. It's a design-forward range built around sculptural surface detail — think the vertical fluting of the Column series, the dimensional gloss of the Piano series, and the woven-textile relief of the Woven series. These are tiles with a point of view.
Are Ceramic tiles suitable for floors?
Our ceramic tiles are primarily designed for walls and interior applications — backsplashes, feature walls, and accent surfaces where their sculptural detail can really shine. For floor use, we'd recommend checking the specific product specs or reaching out to our team to confirm suitability for your project.
Are Ceramic tiles suitable for wet areas?
Yes — our ceramic tiles pass thermal shock and frost resistance tests and are suitable for interior wet areas like bathroom walls and backsplashes. Always ensure proper installation with waterproofing membranes and grout for any moisture-prone application.
Do Ceramic tiles need to be sealed?
Glazed ceramic tiles do not require sealing — the glaze provides a naturally protective, non-porous surface that resists stains and moisture. Just clean with mild soap and water and enjoy.
How do I clean Ceramic tiles?
Easy — mild soap and water does the job. The glaze on our ceramic tiles is durable and low-maintenance. Avoid abrasive scrubbers that could scratch the surface finish.
Do LiLi Ceramic Tiles have test results?
Yes — you can download the full Ceramic Product Data Sheet from our Resources page.
Porcelain6
What makes porcelain different from ceramic?
Porcelain is fired at higher temperatures than ceramic, making it denser, less porous, and more durable. It has a water absorption rate under 0.5% — compared to ceramic which can absorb more — making it an excellent choice for both indoor and outdoor use, including high-traffic areas.
Are Porcelain tiles suitable for outdoor use?
Absolutely. Our porcelain tiles — especially our paver formats — are designed for outdoor use and pass frost resistance testing. They're built to handle the elements without losing their beauty.
Do Porcelain tiles need to be sealed?
Typically no. Porcelain's ultra-low water absorption means it doesn't need sealing the way cement or terracotta does. That said, if you're using an unglazed or matte-finish porcelain in a particularly demanding environment, a sealer can add an extra layer of protection. Always a good idea to check the specific product.
Can Porcelain tiles be used in showers and wet areas?
Yes — porcelain's density and near-zero porosity make it one of the best choices for showers, bathroom floors, and other wet applications. Just ensure proper waterproofing and grouting, and you're set.
Are Porcelain tiles resistant to staining and scratching?
Yes. Porcelain is built to resist stains, scratches, and heavy wear — one of the reasons it's a go-to for both residential and commercial projects. It's the tile you install once and don't worry about.
Do LiLi Porcelain Tiles have test results?
Yes — you can download the full Porcelain Product Data Sheet from our Resources page.
Gray Tiles 5
What grout color goes best with gray tiles?
For gray tiles, grout colors like light gray, white, or charcoal offer a range of options. Light gray grout creates a seamless, cohesive effect; white grout provides a subtle contrast that brightens the space and highlights the tile pattern; charcoal or dark gray adds a bold contrast that emphasizes the tile shape and layout. Each option enhances the beauty of gray tiles while allowing flexibility in style.
What colors complement gray tiles?
Gray tiles pair beautifully with a wide range of colors. Soft neutrals like white, cream, or beige add warmth and balance. Earthy shades — terracotta, warm browns, olive green — bring warmth and depth, contrasting the coolness of gray. For a bolder contrast, rich colors like navy blue, deep burgundy, or mustard yellow add vibrancy and sophistication.
Are gray tiles hard to clean?
Gray tiles are easy to maintain, just like any other color. The type of finish — glossy, matte, or textured — may affect cleaning, but all our tiles are designed to be both beautiful and practical.
Can gray tiles be used in outdoor spaces?
Absolutely. Our gray tiles are weather-resistant and ideal for patios, garden areas, outdoor kitchens, and more. Gray offers a sleek, neutral palette that complements any outdoor space — modern or natural.
What styles work best with gray tiles?
Gray tiles are incredibly versatile. For a modern, minimalist look, pair them with clean lines and chrome or glass. In traditional designs, they work beautifully with dark wood, brass, or marble. For a rustic or farmhouse style, they complement reclaimed wood, stone, and vintage accents. In eclectic or bohemian spaces, gray provides a neutral backdrop for bold colors, patterns, and textures.
Beige Tiles 5
What grout color goes best with beige tiles?
Beige, light gray, or white grout creates a soft, subtle contrast that enhances the natural warmth of the tiles. Beige grout offers a seamless, cohesive look; light gray adds definition without overpowering; white adds a fresh, crisp brightness.
What colors complement beige tiles?
Beige pairs beautifully with warm neutrals like cream, taupe, or soft grays. Earthy tones such as terracotta, rich browns, or muted greens add depth. For a vibrant contrast, navy blue, burgundy, or deep charcoal bring sophistication. Pastel shades like blush pink or light blue add elegance.
Are beige tiles hard to clean?
Beige tiles are easy to maintain, just like any other color. Finish type — glossy, matte, or textured — may affect cleaning, but all our tiles are designed to be both beautiful and practical.
Can beige tiles be used in outdoor spaces?
Absolutely. Our beige tiles are weather-resistant — ideal for patios, gardens, outdoor kitchens, and exterior spaces. They offer a warm, natural look that complements outdoor environments beautifully.
What styles work best with beige tiles?
Beige tiles work across many styles. For contemporary spaces, pair with simple lines and light wood. In classic settings, they pair with deep wood tones, gold accents, or marble. For farmhouse, they harmonize with weathered wood, natural stone, and vintage decor. In eclectic spaces, they serve as a versatile backdrop for bold colors and textures.
Black Tiles 5
What grout color goes best with black tiles?
Dark gray, charcoal, or black grout creates a sleek, seamless look. For a more defined tile pattern, light gray or white grout creates a striking contrast that emphasizes the shape of each tile.
What colors complement black tiles?
Warm neutrals like beige, taupe, or cream soften the boldness. Earthy tones — terracotta, rich browns, deep greens — add warmth and depth. Crisp whites or light grays create a modern, high-contrast design. Gold, navy blue, or emerald green add drama and glamour.
Are black tiles hard to clean?
Black tiles are easy to maintain, just like any other color. Finish type may affect cleaning, but all our tiles are designed to be both beautiful and practical.
Can black tiles be used in outdoor spaces?
Absolutely. Our black tiles are weather-resistant and perfect for patios, gardens, and outdoor kitchens — sleek modern or more classic exterior designs both welcome black tile.
What styles work best with black tiles?
For sleek modern looks, pair with minimalist fixtures and metallic accents. In industrial designs, they pair with exposed brick, concrete, and metal. For classic styles, combine with marble, wood, or brass. In eclectic spaces, black provides a striking backdrop for vibrant decor.
Blue Tiles 5
What grout color goes best with blue tiles?
Neutral grout colors like white, light gray, or soft beige create a clean, balanced contrast that complements the cool tones of blue — letting the tile's color stand out without overpowering the space.
What colors complement blue tiles?
Neutral tones like white, gray, and beige create balance and warmth. Bold accents like yellow or natural wood tones add contrast and vibrancy.
Are blue tiles hard to clean?
Blue tiles are easy to maintain. Finish type may affect cleaning, but all our tiles are designed to be both beautiful and practical.
Can blue tiles be used in outdoor spaces?
Absolutely. Blue tiles are durable, weather-resistant, and perfect for patios, gardens, and outdoor kitchens — adding a splash of color to your exterior.
What styles work best with blue tiles?
Blue tiles work well with coastal, modern, and Mediterranean styles, bringing a serene, refreshing vibe. They also complement classic and contemporary designs.
White Tiles 5
What grout color goes best with white tiles?
White grout creates a seamless, bright, minimalist finish. Light gray or beige grout introduces a subtle contrast that highlights the tile pattern. For a bolder statement, charcoal or black grout adds definition and a striking contrast that emphasizes shape and layout.
What colors complement white tiles?
Soft neutrals like beige, taupe, or light gray add warmth and subtle contrast. Earthy tones — terracotta, warm browns, muted greens — bring depth and coziness. For a more vibrant contrast, navy blue, charcoal, or even black create a striking, modern aesthetic. Pastels like blush pink or soft blue lend a fresh, serene vibe.
Are white tiles hard to clean?
White tiles are easy to maintain, just like any other color. Finish type — glossy, matte, or textured — may affect cleaning, but all our tiles are designed to be both beautiful and practical.
Can white tiles be used in outdoor spaces?
Absolutely. White tiles are made with weather-resistant materials, perfect for patios, garden areas, and outdoor kitchens — creating a clean, bright look that extends your living space seamlessly.
What styles work best with white tiles?
For a sleek modern look, pair white tiles with minimalist fixtures, clean lines, and neutral tones. In traditional styles, they pair with wood or marble. For farmhouse, they work with distressed finishes and vintage accents. In bohemian spaces, white provides a neutral backdrop for bold colors and patterns.
Pink Tiles 5
What grout color goes best with pink tiles?
Neutral grout colors like white, light gray, or beige create a soft, harmonious contrast that lets pink tiles take center stage. For more definition, a medium gray grout adds a subtle but distinct contrast while complementing the warmth.
What colors complement pink tiles?
Pink tiles pair beautifully with soft neutrals like white, cream, or light gray. Cool tones — light blues, mint greens — bring playful contrast. For a bolder approach, navy blue or charcoal gray add sophistication and depth.
Are pink tiles hard to clean?
Pink tiles are easy to maintain. Finish type may affect cleaning, but all our tiles are designed to be both beautiful and practical.
Can pink tiles be used in outdoor spaces?
Absolutely. Our pink tiles are durable, weather-resistant, and perfect for patios, gardens, and outdoor kitchens.
What styles work best with pink tiles?
For sleek modern looks, pair with minimalist fixtures and clean lines. In vintage or retro designs, pair with brass accents, patterned textiles, and antique fixtures. For bohemian vibes, mix with bold colors, natural textures, and playful patterns.
Green Tiles 3
What colors complement green tiles?
Green tiles pair beautifully with warm neutrals like beige or taupe. Earthy tones such as terracotta or rich browns also complement them well, adding warmth and depth to your space.
Can green tiles be used in outdoor spaces?
Absolutely. Our green tiles are durable, weather-resistant, and perfect for patios, gardens, and outdoor kitchens — adding a splash of color to your exterior.
What styles work best with green tiles?
Green tiles work across modern, contemporary, traditional, and rustic styles. For sleek modern looks, pair with minimalist fixtures and clean lines. For a more classic feel, combine them with vintage or earthy accents.
Orange Tiles 5
What grout color goes best with orange tiles?
Neutral grout colors like white, light gray, or beige create a balanced contrast that highlights orange's vibrancy while keeping the look cohesive and stylish.
What colors complement orange tiles?
Neutral tones like white, gray, and beige help balance orange's vibrancy. Earthy shades — deep browns, terracotta, soft greens — add warmth and richness.
Are orange tiles hard to clean?
Orange tiles are easy to maintain. Finish type may affect cleaning, but all our tiles are designed to be both beautiful and practical.
Can orange tiles be used in outdoor spaces?
Absolutely. Our orange tiles are durable, weather-resistant, and perfect for patios, gardens, and outdoor kitchens.
What styles work best with orange tiles?
Orange tiles are versatile. For a modern look, pair with sleek, neutral tones and minimalist decor. For a more traditional or bohemian vibe, combine with natural wood accents, earthy textures, and warm lighting.
Red Tiles 5
What grout color goes best with red tiles?
Neutral grout colors like white, light gray, or beige provide a clean contrast that highlights the richness of red while creating a balanced, polished finish.
What colors complement red tiles?
Neutral tones like white or gray create a sleek, balanced look. Warm accents such as gold, beige, or soft browns also complement red beautifully, adding richness and elegance.
Are red tiles hard to clean?
Red tiles are easy to maintain. Finish type may affect cleaning, but all our tiles are designed to be both beautiful and practical.
Can red tiles be used in outdoor spaces?
Absolutely. Our red tiles are crafted with durable, weather-resistant materials — perfect for patios, garden paths, or outdoor kitchens.
What styles work best with red tiles?
Red tiles are versatile and suit a variety of design styles — from rustic and Mediterranean to contemporary and industrial. For a bold modern look, pair with sleek minimalist decor and neutral accents. For traditional or rustic style, complement them with warm wood tones and vintage-inspired details.
Still have questions?
Our team is here to help match tile materials with your design goals, usage requirements, and installation needs. Reach out and we'll get back within one business day.
Contact Us Order SamplesOur suggested primer + sealer combo will help keep your new tiles looking beautiful for years to come
