The Tiles are the most important and widely used component of any home renovation or construction; choosing adequate and best tiles can make all the difference.
In this article, we’ll dive deep into the world of Zia tile and Cle tile, two popular brands that are making a splash in the tile industry.
We’ll overall compare their advantages and disadvantages, examine their histories, and address some commonly asked questions to assist you in making an informed decision for your next project,
A Brief Comparison Table
| Zia Tile | Cle Tile |
| Authentic Moroccan craftsmanship | Wide range of styles |
| Direct sourcing from Moroccan artisans | Glossy finish |
| Distinct, rustic personality | Commitment to sustainability and ethical sourcing |
| Limited selection (Zellige only) | Diverse selection, including Zellige |
| Slightly higher price point | More affordable price point |
| Traditional, handcrafted aesthetic | Modern, polished aesthetic |
| Los Angeles-based company | California-based company |
| Tiles handcrafted in Morocco | Tiles sourced from artisans worldwide |
A Tale of Two Tiles: Zia and Cle’s Origin Stories
Once upon a time, in the land of tile manufacturing, two brands emerged that would eventually become household names for those in the know: Zia and Cle.
Both brands are known for their beautiful and unique Zellige tiles, but each has its own distinct story and features.
Zia Tile is a Los Angeles-based company that specializes in handcrafted Zellige tiles sourced directly from Morocco.
By working closely with Moroccan artisans, Zia ensures that each tile is created using traditional techniques that have been passed down through generations.
This results in a product that is both authentic and charming, with a distinct personality.
On the other hand, Cle Tile is a California-based company that offers a wide range of tile styles, including Zellige. Cle sources its tiles from artisans around the world, curating a collection that is both diverse and aesthetically appealing.
Cle Tile is known for its commitment to sustainability and social responsibility, ensuring that their products are ethically produced and environmentally friendly.
Also Read: Differences Between RevoTile And QuicTile.
Analyzing The Aesthetics of Zia And Cle Tiles
When it comes to aesthetics, Zia and Cle tiles both offer a beautiful and unique take on Zellige tiles. Zia’s tiles are handcrafted in Morocco, with each piece bearing the marks of the artisan who created it.
This results in a unique appearance that is both rustic and refined, ideal for adding personality and attractiveness to any space.
Cle Tile, on the other hand, offers a more polished glossy look also a wider variety of colors and styles. Their Zellige tiles feature a glossy finish that is both sophisticated and modern, making them a versatile choice for various design styles.
The Price Factor: Is Zellige Tile More Expensive?
When it comes to price, Zellige tiles tend to be more expensive than their mass-produced counterparts.
This is due to the labor-intensive process of hand-making each tile and the expense of importing them from Morocco.
However, the unique beauty and craftsmanship of these tiles make them well worth the investment for many homeowners.
Both Zia and Cle tiles are competitively priced within the Zellige market, with each brand offering a range of options to suit different budgets.
While Zia’s tiles may be slightly more expensive due to their focus on authenticity and direct sourcing, Cle’s offerings are still a fantastic option for those seeking high-quality Zellige tiles at a more affordable price.
Pros and Cons of Zia Tile And Cle Tile
Till now we’ve covered the basics. Let’s examine the pros and cons of Zia and Cle tiles so that you can make an informed decision.
Zia Tile
Pros:
- Authentic Moroccan craftsmanship: Each tile is handcrafted by artisans in Morocco, ensuring a unique and charming product.
- Direct sourcing: By working directly with Moroccan artisans, Zia ensures that their tiles are of the highest quality.
- Distinct personality: The rustic, one-of-a-kind appearance of Zia’s tiles lends personality to any space.
Cons:
- Limited selection: Zia focuses exclusively on Zellige tiles, which may not suit everyone’s design preferences.
- Higher price point: Due to their focus on authenticity and direct sourcing, Zia’s tiles may be slightly more expensive than some other options on the market.
Cle Tile
Pros:
- Wide range of styles: Cle offers a diverse selection of tile styles, including Zellige, ensuring that there’s something for everyone.
- Glossy finish: Cle’s Zellige tiles feature a modern and sophisticated glossy finish, making them a versatile choice for various design styles.
- Commitment to sustainability: Cle sources their tiles ethically and ensures that they are environmentally friendly.
Cons:
- Less focus on authenticity: While Cle’s tiles are beautiful and high-quality, they may not have the same level of traditional craftsmanship as Zia’s offerings.
- Slightly lower perceived value: Due to their more polished appearance and lower price point, some customers may perceive Cle’s tiles as less valuable than Zia’s.
Installation and Maintenance: What To Expect?
When it comes to installation, Zellige tiles from both Zia and Cle require a bit more care and attention than standard tiles.
Due to their handmade nature, Zellige tiles have slight variations in size and thickness, which can make installation more challenging.
It’s essential to hire a skilled professional who is familiar with Zellige tiles to ensure a proper installation.
Maintenance-wise, Zellige tiles are relatively easy to care for, but they do have some specific requirements.
It is essential to clean them frequently with a gentle, nonabrasive cleanser in order to maintain their aesthetic appeal. Additionally, sealing Zellige tiles is essential to protect them from water damage and stains, particularly in high-moisture areas like showers.
Making the Final Choice: Zia or Cle?
In the end, choosing between Zia tile and Cle tile comes down to your personal preferences and priorities. If you value authenticity, traditional craftsmanship, and a more rustic appearance, Zia Tile may be the perfect choice for you. Their direct sourcing from Moroccan artisans and commitment to preserving traditional techniques result in a truly one-of-a-kind product.
Cle Tile, on the other hand, may be a superior choice if you prefer a sleeker, more contemporary appearance with a greater variety of styles and colors. Their commitment to sustainability and ethical sourcing, combined with their diverse and visually appealing selection, make them an excellent choice for those seeking a unique and stylish tile option.
Ultimately, both Zia and Cle tiles have their strengths and weaknesses, but one thing is certain: either choice will result in a beautiful and eye-catching space that showcases the unique charm and character of Zellige tiles.
Also Read: Reasons To Have LiLi Cement Tiles.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
In this section, we’ll answer some common questions about Zellige tiles, Zia Tile, and Cle Tile to help you make an informed decision.
Yes, Zellige tiles are generally more expensive than mass-produced tiles due to the labor-intensive process of handcrafting each piece and the cost of importing them from Morocco. However, many homeowners believe that the distinctive beauty and craftsmanship of these tiles justify the price.
Zia Tile is a Los Angeles-based company, but their Zellige tiles are handcrafted by artisans in Morocco. They work directly with these artisans to ensure that their products are of the highest quality and showcase traditional Moroccan craftsmanship.
No, each Zellige tile is unique due to the handcrafted nature of the product. The process of creating Zellige tiles involves chiseling, glazing, and firing each piece individually, which results in slight variations in color, texture, and size. This adds to the charm and character of Zellige tiles, making them a popular choice for those seeking a one-of-a-kind look.
While traditional Zellige tiles may have contained lead in the glaze, modern Zellige tiles from reputable manufacturers, like Zia and Cle, are typically lead-free. Both companies produce high-quality, safe products for their customers, so you can trust that their tiles are free from harmful substances and environment friendly.
Yes, Zellige tiles can be an excellent choice for a shower due to their water-resistant properties and unique aesthetic. The natural variations in color and texture can add depth and character to a shower space, creating a spa-like atmosphere. Overall it’s merely essential to ensure that the tiles are properly sealed and installed by a professional to prevent water damage and ensure a long-lasting, beautiful result.
Final Thoughts
So, are you Team Zia or Team Cle? The choice is yours, and we’re extremely sure that whatever brand you choose from both, you’ll be astonished by the final outcome.
Outstanding info. Note: Zia now has far more than just zellige tile. I would love some info, if you have it, re comparisons of their other lines. You have motivated me to further explore Cle.