I’m not one to throw money at just any home decor, but Zia Tile’s handmade, artisanal tiles have me hooked. Their vibrant patterns, eco-friendly materials, and timeless charm make them a standout choice for anyone looking to elevate their space.
Whether you’re revamping a kitchen backsplash or designing a bathroom oasis, Zia Tile delivers quality and style that’s worth every penny. Trust me, these tiles aren’t just a purchase—they’re an investment in beauty and durability.
Let’s explore why Zia Tile should be your go-to for your next project.
My Experience With Zia Tile
When I decided to renovate my kitchen, I wanted something special—something that would make my space feel unique without screaming “trendy.”
That’s when I stumbled across Zia Tile. I’ll be honest: I was skeptical at first.
Handmade tiles?
Sounded like a lot of hype for something that could easily be mass-produced.
But when my order arrived, I was blown away.
The box opened to reveal 8×8-inch cement tiles in a bold geometric pattern I’d chosen after hours of browsing their site.
Each tile had this subtle, almost imperfections-on-purpose vibe that gave them character—nothing like the sterile uniformity of big-box store tiles.
Installing them was an adventure. I’m no DIY pro, but with a friend’s help, we got the backsplash up over a weekend. The tiles were heavier than I expected, which made me nervous, but they cut cleanly and laid down smoothly.
The colors popped in a way that photos on the website couldn’t fully capture—rich blues and warm terracottas that made my kitchen feel like a Mediterranean café. What struck me most was how they felt under my fingers: textured, solid, like they were built to last a lifetime.
A few arrived with minor chips, which was a bummer, but Zia’s customer service sent replacements within days, no questions asked.
Living with these tiles for a few months now, I can say they’re a conversation starter. Every guest who walks into my kitchen notices them immediately. They’re not just tiles; they’re a statement. Cleaning them is a breeze, and they’ve held up against splashes of tomato sauce and the occasional coffee spill.
The only hiccup?
I wish I’d known more about sealing them upfront—more on that later. Overall, my experience with Zia Tile has been a game-changer, making my kitchen feel like my kitchen, not just another cookie-cutter space.
Pros of Zia Tile
- Artisanal Craftsmanship That Stands Out
You know that feeling when you touch something and can tell it was made with care?
That’s Zia Tile. Each piece is handcrafted by artisans across three continents, and you can feel the human touch in every tile.
The slight variations—tiny imperfections in the glaze or pattern—aren’t flaws; they’re what make your space feel alive.
I chose a Moroccan zellige pattern for my kitchen, and no two tiles are exactly alike, which gives my backsplash a soul that mass-produced tiles just can’t match. It’s like owning a piece of art, not just a building material.
- Eco-Friendly Materials and Practices
If you’re like me and try to make sustainable choices, Zia Tile’s commitment to eco-friendly materials is a big win. Their cement and zellige tiles use natural ingredients, and the company emphasizes sustainable production methods.
I felt good knowing my purchase wasn’t contributing to environmental harm. Plus, their durability means you won’t be replacing them every few years, which cuts down on waste. It’s rare to find a product that’s both beautiful and kind to the planet, but Zia nails it.
- Versatile Design Options
Whether you’re into bold, colorful patterns or understated, minimalist vibes, Zia Tile has something for you. Their catalog spans over 200 patterns, from vibrant cement tiles to glossy zellige and rustic cotto. I spent hours flipping through their options, and it was like a candy store for design nerds.
You can go traditional with intricate Moroccan designs or modern with sleek, monochromatic ceramics. Whatever your style, Zia’s got a tile that’ll make your space pop without feeling overdone.
- Exceptional Customer Service
I can’t stress this enough: Zia’s customer service is top-notch. When a few of my tiles arrived chipped, I emailed their team expecting a hassle. Nope. They responded within hours, apologized, and had replacements shipped out before the week was over.
They even followed up to make sure everything arrived intact. It’s the kind of service that makes you feel valued as a customer, not just a transaction. If you’re nervous about ordering tiles online, Zia’s team will have your back.
- Long-Lasting Durability
These tiles aren’t just pretty—they’re built to last. Zia’s cement tiles, in particular, are known for their ability to withstand heavy wear. I’ve got a busy kitchen, with kids and pets running around, and my backsplash still looks as good as the day we installed it.
The company claims their tiles can last centuries with proper care, and I believe it. They feel solid, like they could handle anything short of a sledgehammer. If you’re looking for something that’ll stand the test of time, Zia’s got you covered.
Not-So-Good Parts of Zia Tile
- Higher Price Point
Let’s talk about the elephant in the room: Zia Tile isn’t cheap.
Handcrafted tiles come with a premium, and if you’re on a tight budget, the cost can sting.
My kitchen backsplash set me back more than I’d planned, especially when you factor in shipping and installation supplies.
Compared to mass-produced tiles from big-box stores, Zia’s prices are noticeably higher.
That said, I think the quality and uniqueness justify the cost if you can swing it. Just be prepared to save up or scale back your project’s scope.
- Longer Lead Times
Patience isn’t my strong suit, and Zia Tile tested me here. Because their tiles are handmade, lead times can stretch longer than you’d expect—sometimes weeks or even a month, depending on the order.
For my project, I waited about three weeks, which wasn’t terrible but definitely longer than grabbing something off the shelf at a local store. If you’re working on a tight timeline, this could be a headache. Plan ahead, and you’ll avoid the stress.
- Shipping Challenges
While Zia’s customer service was great about replacing chipped tiles, the fact that some arrived damaged in the first place was frustrating. Handmade tiles are delicate, and their shipping process isn’t foolproof. A few reviews I read mentioned similar issues, so it’s not just me.
They do offer order pickup at their LA warehouse, which could save you the hassle if you’re nearby, but for most of us, shipping is the only option. Just cross your fingers and double-check your order when it arrives.
- Limited Physical Showrooms
As someone who likes to see and touch things before buying, I was bummed that Zia Tile is primarily an online operation. They don’t have many physical showrooms, so you’re relying on high-resolution images and samples to make your decision.
I ordered a few samples (the first five are free, which is nice), but it’s not the same as seeing a full display in person. If you’re picky about visualizing how tiles will look in your space, this could feel like a gamble.
Maintenance Tips For Zia Tile
- Regular Cleaning with pH-Neutral Soaps
Keeping your Zia tiles looking pristine is easier than you might think. I use a mild, pH-neutral soap diluted in water and a soft cloth to wipe down my backsplash weekly. It takes maybe five minutes, and it keeps dust and grime from building up.
Avoid harsh cleaners like bleach or acidic solutions—they can dull the finish or damage the glaze, especially on zellige tiles. A quick wipe-down after cooking also prevents stains from setting, especially if you’re as messy in the kitchen as I am.
- Sealing for Stain Protection
Here’s where I learned a lesson the hard way: seal your tiles. Zia’s cement and zellige tiles are porous, so they can soak up spills if you’re not careful. I didn’t seal mine right away, and a red wine spill left a faint mark that still bugs me.
Use a penetrating sealant (Zia recommends specific brands on their site) and apply it after installation. Reapply every year or two, depending on how much wear your tiles get. It’s a small effort that makes a big difference in keeping your tiles stain-free.
- Avoiding Abrasive Tools
I’m guilty of grabbing a scrubby sponge when I’m in a rush, but don’t do it. Abrasive tools like steel wool or rough scrubbers can scratch the surface of your tiles, especially the glossy zellige ones.
Stick to soft cloths or non-abrasive sponges. I keep a dedicated microfiber cloth just for my tiles—it’s gentle and gets the job done. If you’ve got a stubborn stain, let it soak with a mild cleaner for a few minutes before wiping it away.
- Handling Chips and Cracks
Accidents happen—trust me, I know. My dog knocked a heavy pot off the counter, and it chipped a corner of one tile. If this happens to you, don’t panic. Zia’s customer service can often provide replacement tiles, but for minor chips, you can use a color-matched epoxy to fill in the damage.
I found a tutorial online that walked me through it, and the fix is barely noticeable. For bigger cracks, you might need a pro, but keeping a few extra tiles from your order is a smart move.
- Periodic Inspections
I make it a habit to check my tiles every few months for any signs of wear, like loose grout or fading sealant. It sounds like overkill, but catching small issues early saves you from bigger headaches later. Run your hand over the tiles to feel for loose spots or cracks, especially in high-traffic areas.
If you notice anything off, reapply sealant or call in a professional to re-grout. A little vigilance goes a long way in keeping your Zia tiles looking as good as new.
Comparison of Zia Tile With Other Tile Brands
Let’s put Zia Tile up against some of its competitors: Cle Tile, Fireclay Tile, Tilebar, Bedrosians Tile & Stone, and Ann Sacks. Each has its strengths, but here’s how they stack up in a way that’s easy to wrap your head around.
Cle Tile is Zia’s closest rival in the handmade, artisanal space. Their designs are stunning, with a modern, minimalist edge that’s perfect if you lean toward sleek aesthetics. I was tempted by their offerings, but Cle’s tiles felt less traditional than Zia’s, which was a dealbreaker for my Mediterranean vibe.
Cle’s prices are comparable, but their lead times can be just as long, and I found Zia’s customer service more responsive.
Fireclay Tile is another eco-conscious brand, which I love. Their tiles are made with recycled materials, and they offer a huge range of colors and shapes. But their focus is more on ceramics than cement or zellige, so if you’re after that handcrafted, textured look, Zia wins.
Fireclay’s tiles are also pricier, and their customization options didn’t feel as flexible as Zia’s, where you can tweak colors or patterns to fit your vision.
Tilebar is the budget-friendly option, and I’ll admit, their prices are tempting. They’ve got a massive selection, and you can get free samples, which is great for indecisive folks like me.
But their tiles lean heavily on mass-produced designs, and I missed the soul and craftsmanship of Zia’s products. If you’re looking for affordability over uniqueness, Tilebar might be your pick, but I’d argue Zia’s worth the splurge.
Bedrosians Tile & Stone offers a broad range of tiles and stones, from budget to high-end. Their selection is overwhelming, which can be a pro or a con depending on your patience. I found their quality solid but not as distinctive as Zia’s.
Their tiles lack that artisanal charm, and their customer service felt more corporate than Zia’s warm, personal touch.
Ann Sacks is the luxury heavyweight, with jaw-dropping designs and custom options that scream high-end. But their prices are astronomical—think double or triple Zia’s in some cases. I drooled over their catalog, but my wallet said no way.
If money’s no object, Ann Sacks is a dream, but Zia gives you similar quality and style for a fraction of the cost.
In the end, Zia Tile strikes a sweet spot: artisanal quality, eco-friendly practices, and a price that’s high but not unreachable. If you want tiles that tell a story and make your space feel one-of-a-kind, Zia’s tough to beat.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Zia Tile is based in Los Angeles, California, and ships from their warehouse there. If you’re local, you can arrange to pick up your order directly, which saves on shipping costs and reduces the risk of damage. For everyone else, they ship worldwide, so you can get their tiles no matter where you are. Just keep in mind that international shipping might add to the cost and lead time.
It depends on your priorities. If you value handmade craftsmanship, eco-friendly materials, and a balance of quality and affordability, I’d say Zia Tile is a top contender. Cle Tile and Fireclay are great for similar artisanal vibes, while Tilebar is better for budget shoppers. Ann Sacks is the luxury pick, but Zia offers comparable style without the eye-watering price tag. Think about your budget, style, and project timeline to decide what’s best for you.
Zia Tile offers a range of materials, including cement, Moroccan zellige, cotto, ceramics, and limestone. Their cement tiles are made with pigmented concrete, pressed and molded by artisans. Zellige tiles are crafted from natural clay, glazed, and fired for that glossy, textured look. Cotto and ceramics use traditional clay-based methods, while limestone is a natural stone option. Each material has its own charm, so you can pick based on your project’s needs.
Zellige tiles, like Zia’s Moroccan offerings, are gorgeous but come with some drawbacks. They’re prone to chipping during shipping or installation due to their delicate, handmade nature. Their porous surface requires regular sealing to prevent stains, which adds to maintenance. The irregular, handcrafted look might not suit those who prefer uniform designs. Finally, they’re pricier than mass-produced tiles, so budget-conscious buyers might hesitate. Proper care and planning can mitigate these issues, though.
Conclusion: Why Zia Tile Is Worth It?
If you’re dreaming of a space that’s uniquely yours, Zia Tile is the way to go. Their handcrafted, eco-friendly tiles bring artistry and durability that elevate any project. From vibrant patterns to stellar customer service, Zia delivers a product that’s worth the investment.
Sure, the price and lead times might give you pause, but the payoff is a space that feels personal and timeless. Go for Zia Tile—you won’t regret it.