Installation and grout guide

Before installation, Tiles by Conie Vallese should be carefully reviewed and arranged. As each tile is handmade, subtle variations in tone, size and surface are part of the material’s character. Lay out the tiles in advance and mix pieces from different boxes. This ensures a balanced distribution of colour and variation across the surface and creates a natural visual rhythm once installed.

As a general guideline for handmade tiles, we recommend ordering approximately 10% extra tiles. This allows for cuts during installation and for selecting the tiles that best fit the overall composition. Before installation begins, check that all tiles are intact and free from defects that would prevent proper use.

Grouting

A grout joint width of 1–4 mm is recommended. The exact width can be adjusted slightly to accommodate natural variations between tiles and to ensure an even alignment across the surface. The colour of the grout plays an important role in the final appearance. For a calm and unified surface, choose a grout colour that closely matches the tile. A contrasting grout can also be used deliberately to emphasise the geometry of the layout. In most cases, a grout tone similar to the tile will create the most cohesive and architectural result.

Installation

Tiles should be installed according to standard professional practices for glazed terracotta tiles. Proper preparation of the substrate, along with the correct choice of adhesive and grout for the specific conditions of the project, is essential for a durable installation. The substrate should be clean, stable and level before installation begins. It is recommended to define the layout and starting lines in advance to ensure a balanced composition and minimise visible cuts.

Before fixing the tiles, mix pieces from different boxes to distribute variations in tone and size evenly across the surface. Apply a suitable tile adhesive using a notched trowel and place each tile carefully, aligning and pressing it firmly into the adhesive. Tile spacers can be used to maintain consistent joints.

Where required, tiles can be cut using a tile cutter or a wet tile saw.

Allow the adhesive to cure for approximately 24 hours before grouting the joints. Grout should be applied using a rubber float and any excess removed from the surface. Once the joints are filled, clean the tiles immediately with a damp sponge to remove grout residue and rinse the surface.