Frequently Asked Questions

Yes. Cement Tile Shop is based in Tampa, Florida, where we have our headquarters and showroom. We also operate warehouse locations in Tampa, Florida and Phoenix, Arizona for shipping and local order pickup.

View showroom and warehouse locations.

We accept Visa, MasterCard, American Express, Discover and PayPal. Personal checks and money orders may also be accepted. Orders paid by check will not ship until funds have cleared.

Please contact Customer Service if you would like to arrange payment by check or money order.

Yes. Our products are first-quality material sourced directly from our factories and suppliers. Many of the products we sell are handmade or made from natural materials. Variations and handmade characteristics are not considered defects.

The minimum order for most full-size tile products is four boxes. Minimum quantities may vary for certain materials, custom products or special orders. Please see the individual product page or contact us if you have questions about a particular item.

Yes, and we strongly recommend ordering samples whenever possible.

Full-piece samples of many in-stock patterned cement tiles are available for immediate shipment, and color swatches are available for solid cement tile colors. Sample availability, size, cost and lead time may vary by product.

Samples may be ordered through individual product pages or through our Sample Information page.

Product photography is intended to represent the material as accurately as possible, but actual color and appearance can vary.

Handmade and natural materials can have variations in color, shade, texture, size and finish. Computer monitors, phones, lighting and photography can also affect how colors appear on screen.

For these reasons, we recommend viewing the material in person or ordering a sample before purchasing. Cement Tile Shop is not responsible for differences between our products and samples supplied by other manufacturers, retailers or showrooms.

In many cases, yes. Our handmade cement tile collections offer extensive customization options. Existing patterns can often be produced using different colors, and custom patterns, borders and designs may also be possible.

Please visit our Custom Tiles page or contact us to discuss your project, minimum quantities, pricing and production lead times.

Yes. Variation is an inherent characteristic of handmade tile and is part of its appeal.

Depending on the material, you may see variations in color, shade, thickness, dimensions, texture, surface finish and edges.

Handmade cement tile may show slight variations in color, pattern alignment, dimensions or surface appearance. Zellige is intentionally irregular and may exhibit significant tonal variation, uneven edges, pits, surface texture, glaze variation, crazing and differences in thickness.

These characteristics help create the distinctive appearance of handmade tile and generally should not be considered defects. Always inspect and blend material from multiple boxes before installation.

No. Our cement tile collections are produced by different factories using their own handmade processes. Each collection has its own characteristics, colors, dimensions, finishes and appearance.

If you plan to combine products from different collections, we strongly recommend ordering samples first and reviewing the materials together.

An exact match cannot be guaranteed. Handmade and natural materials may vary between production runs, batches and raw-material lots. This applies particularly to cement tile, zellige, terrazzo and natural stone.

For this reason, it is important to order enough material for your complete installation, including appropriate overage for cuts, waste and future repairs.

No. Cement tile, zellige, terrazzo, marble, breeze block and other specialty materials have different installation requirements.

Always review the installation information applicable to the product you are purchasing and provide those instructions to your installer before work begins. Setting-material, grout, waterproofing and sealer manufacturers should also be consulted to confirm that their products are appropriate for your specific installation.

Yes. Handmade and specialty tile requires careful preparation, layout, setting, grouting and finishing. We strongly recommend using a qualified professional tile installer who is familiar with the material being installed.

Site conditions vary, and the installer is responsible for evaluating the substrate, moisture conditions, waterproofing, movement joints, setting materials, grout, sealer and applicable building requirements. Material should be inspected and approved before it is cut or installed.

Yes. Our cement tiles may receive a factory treatment for protection during manufacturing and transportation, but this does not replace jobsite sealing.

Cement tile is porous and should be properly sealed before grouting. Depending on the installation, tile porosity and sealer being used, an additional application may be appropriate after grouting.

Cement Tile Shop recommends Miracle Sealants 511 Porous Plus or another high-quality penetrating sealer approved for cement tile. Always test the sealer first and follow the sealer manufacturer's current instructions regarding application, drying, curing and coverage.

Glazed zellige does not normally require sealing.

Our unglazed zellige products — Seashell Unglazed and Unglazed Terracotta — are porous and require a penetrating sealer.

Because handmade surfaces, exposed edges, grout colors and installation conditions can vary, always test the selected grout and installation products on loose tile or in an inconspicuous area before completing the installation. A grout release or other pre-grout treatment may be appropriate for certain installations.

Yes. Cement Tile Shop offers Miracle Sealants 511 Porous Plus penetrating sealer in quart and gallon sizes.

Coverage varies considerably depending on the porosity of the material, installation conditions and number of applications required. Always follow the sealer manufacturer's current coverage and application instructions rather than relying on a fixed square-foot estimate.

For many interior cement tile and zellige installations, Cement Tile Shop recommends MAPEI Flexcolor CQ. MAPEI Flexcolor CQ is a premixed grout formulated with color-coated quartz aggregate and does not require sealing.

Always test the selected grout color and cleaning method on spare material or in an inconspicuous area before grouting the full installation. Dark cement-based grouts can stain porous cement tile and should not be used without successful testing.

Pools, submerged installations, steam rooms, saunas, commercial kitchens and other specialized environments may require different grout and installation systems. Confirm product suitability with the grout and setting-material manufacturer before installation.

Many of our products can be used successfully in wet-area applications when installed correctly.

A complete waterproofing system must be installed beneath the tile in showers and other wet areas. Tile, grout and sealer do not make an installation waterproof. Setting materials, waterproofing, grout and sealers must all be appropriate for the specific application.

Pools, submerged installations, steam rooms and saunas require specialized installation systems. Contact us and consult the installation-product manufacturer before proceeding with these applications.

Yes, but the application should be considered carefully.

Glazed handmade zellige may be used on floors but is generally recommended for lighter-traffic applications because of its handmade surface and edge characteristics. Our unglazed zellige products, Seashell Unglazed and Unglazed Terracotta, may be appropriate for higher-traffic applications when properly installed and sealed.

Always evaluate the requirements of the specific project before selecting a flooring material.

Some products may be suitable for exterior installations, but suitability depends on the material, location, climate, freeze-thaw exposure, drainage, substrate and installation system.

Exterior installations require careful planning and appropriate setting, waterproofing and drainage systems. Please contact Cement Tile Shop before purchasing material for an exterior application so that we can help you review the product requirements.

Many of our products have been successfully used in commercial projects, but suitability depends on the specific material and application.

Factors such as expected traffic, moisture, exposure to contaminants, slip resistance, maintenance requirements and applicable building requirements should be considered when selecting tile for a commercial project.

Technical information and available test reports can be provided upon request where applicable. Architects, designers, contractors and installers are responsible for confirming that the selected material and installation system meet the requirements of the particular project.

Yes. Cement Tile Shop has extensive experience supplying tile for commercial and residential projects. We regularly work with architects, interior designers, contractors, developers and other trade professionals.

Please contact us at (800) 704-2701 to discuss your project.

Yes, depending on the collection and project. Many standard cement tiles are approximately 5/8 inch (1.6 cm) thick. Thinner tiles of approximately 1.2 cm may also be available for certain products or custom orders.

The thickness of current in-stock material is listed on the individual product page whenever applicable. Contact us if your project has specific thickness requirements.

Yes. Cutting, drilling, grinding or removing tile, stone, cement and masonry materials can generate airborne dust.

Wet cutting is recommended whenever practical. Appropriate dust-control practices, ventilation, eye protection, respiratory protection and other personal protective equipment should be used for the work being performed. Avoid unnecessary dry grinding or pulverizing of tile.

Always follow the instructions provided by the tool manufacturer and applicable workplace safety requirements.

Use a mild, pH-neutral cleaner suitable for cement tile or natural stone. Sweep or vacuum loose dirt and grit regularly and clean spills promptly.

Do not use vinegar, acidic cleaners, harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaning pads. Acidic products can etch and permanently alter cement tile.

Periodic resealing may be required depending on traffic, exposure, cleaning methods and the sealer used.

Clean zellige with a mild, pH-neutral cleaner suitable for tile or natural stone.

Avoid acidic, highly alkaline, abrasive or harsh cleaning products. Do not use vinegar or vinegar-based cleaners. Floor installations should be swept or vacuumed regularly to remove abrasive dirt and debris.

Unglazed Seashell and Unglazed Terracotta may require periodic resealing depending on use, exposure and the sealer being used.

Zellige is a traditional handmade fired clay tile. Historically, some glaze formulations used in handmade tile production have contained lead or other metals as part of the glazing process.

Because formulations and available testing documentation can vary by manufacturer, Cement Tile Shop does not represent its zellige products as "lead-free" unless that representation is supported by appropriate product-specific documentation.

It is important to distinguish between the presence of a metal in a glaze and the amount, if any, that may be released from the finished fired surface. ISO 10545-15:2021 is a testing standard used to determine the release of lead and cadmium from tile surfaces.

Cement Tile Shop has requested additional technical information and testing documentation from our Moroccan zellige manufacturers regarding lead, cadmium and other regulated metals. We will review and update our product information as additional documentation becomes available.

Our zellige is sold as an architectural finish for applications such as walls, backsplashes, showers, fireplaces and similar decorative surfaces. It is not sold or represented as cookware, serving ware or a surface intended for direct food preparation or food storage.

When cutting, drilling, grinding or removing zellige, follow appropriate professional dust-control practices. Wet cutting is recommended whenever practical, along with suitable ventilation, eye protection, respiratory protection and other appropriate personal protective equipment.

Accurate measurements are essential. We recommend having your installer, contractor or another qualified professional confirm measurements before ordering.

The amount of material required can vary depending on the layout, pattern, room shape, cuts and installation method. Because handmade and natural materials may vary between production runs, it is much better to order sufficient material at the beginning of the project than to depend on matching additional material later.

For most tile installations, additional material should be ordered for cuts, waste, layout preferences and future repairs.

Approximately 10% to 15% overage is common, although more may be appropriate for complicated layouts, diagonal installations, unusual room shapes, patterned layouts or projects requiring extensive cuts. Some products or layouts may warrant 15% to 20% or more.

Our online calculators estimate the number of boxes and actual square footage based on the quantity entered but may not automatically include the overage appropriate for your project. Always confirm your measurements and required overage with your installer before ordering.

In-stock orders typically ship within one to two business days from our warehouse locations in Tampa, Florida or Phoenix, Arizona.

Transit time is typically approximately two to seven business days after the order leaves our warehouse, although timing can vary based on destination, order size, carrier schedules, weather and other transportation conditions.

If an item is backordered or unavailable, we will contact you regarding available options.

Lead times vary by product and factory. Many special-order and custom cement tiles require approximately 8 to 16 weeks from the date of order, but the estimated lead time shown on the individual product page or provided with your quote should be used for your particular order.

Production and delivery dates are estimates and can be affected by manufacturing schedules, international transportation, customs, weather, port conditions and other circumstances outside Cement Tile Shop's control.

If your project has a firm deadline, please discuss it with us before placing your order.

No. Shipping charges are based on factors including the weight of the material, destination, delivery type and freight requirements.

Samples are generally shipped by parcel carrier, while full orders are typically shipped by LTL freight carrier. Residential deliveries may incur an additional charge.

Orders shipped by LTL freight are delivered curbside on a pallet. The driver will usually unload the pallet from the truck at the curb or delivery point. The customer is responsible for moving the material from the curb into the home, business or jobsite.

The driver does not normally carry tile inside the building. Additional services such as liftgate service, inside delivery, redelivery or address changes may result in additional charges and may not be available in every location.

Someone must be present to receive and inspect the shipment. Before the driver leaves:

• Confirm the number of pallets and cartons.
• Inspect the shipment for visible damage.
• Note any shortage, incorrect material or damage clearly on the driver's delivery receipt or bill of lading before signing.
• Take photographs of any damage.

Do not refuse the shipment solely because damage is visible. Accept the shipment, document the problem on the delivery paperwork and contact Cement Tile Shop promptly.

Claims for shortage, incorrect product or damage must be made within three days and must be noted on the bill of lading. Failure to document visible damage on the carrier's paperwork may prevent a freight claim from being filed.

View our complete Shipping and Return Policy.

Usually not. Freight companies determine whether an address qualifies as commercial. A commercial freight address typically has characteristics such as a loading dock, warehouse access or forklift capabilities.

A business operated from a residence is generally considered a residential delivery. If the destination is a residence, please select residential delivery when ordering. Additional charges may apply if a residential location is entered as a commercial delivery.

Yes. Local pickup is available from our warehouse locations in Phoenix, Arizona and Tampa, Florida.

Pickup orders must be arranged in advance and require an appointment. Warehouse pickup fees may apply. Please contact us before traveling to the warehouse to confirm that your order is ready and obtain pickup instructions.

Yes. Our standard online freight rates generally apply to the contiguous 48 United States. Please contact us for a custom freight quote for Alaska, Hawaii and Canada.

Yes. Cement Tile Shop ships projects throughout the world. For shipments outside the United States, please contact Customer Service so that we can prepare a freight quote and review the shipping requirements for your destination.

Unless specifically stated otherwise in your written quote or order, international freight charges do not include destination-country VAT, duties, customs charges, brokerage fees or other import taxes.

These charges are generally the responsibility of the purchaser, recipient or importer of record and are collected by the appropriate customs authority, carrier, broker or other party involved with the import.

Import requirements differ by country. Customers should confirm applicable taxes, duties and import requirements before placing an international order.

We strongly recommend waiting until all material has arrived and has been inspected before scheduling installation.

Although shipping damage, shortages and backorders are uncommon, they can occur. Installation should not begin until the customer and installer have confirmed that the correct material and sufficient quantity have been received and accepted.

Return eligibility varies by product. Handmade, custom, made-to-order and special-order products are final sale. Any other return must be authorized by Cement Tile Shop in advance and may be subject to a 30% restocking fee plus applicable shipping charges.

Cancellation requests should be made as soon as possible. Requests received within 24 hours of purchase will be considered, but cancellation cannot be guaranteed once an order has entered processing or shipped. Custom and made-to-order products cannot be canceled once production has begun.

Material that has been cut, altered or installed is not eligible for return. Claims involving incorrect or defective material must be reported before installation and require prior authorization from Cement Tile Shop. Please review our Shipping & Return Policy for complete terms and conditions.