Our ceramic tile installation guide provides essential information on handling, installing, and caring for handmade tiles. Following these guidelines ensures the best finish and long-term performance of your installation.

Important Notice

By proceeding with installation, the client and/or installer confirms that all tiles have been inspected and accepted prior to installation.

Installation of the product constitutes full acceptance of the tiles as supplied. No claims relating to appearance, variation, or selection will be accepted once tiles have been installed, except where required under applicable law.

1. Understanding Handmade Tiles

Akashic Tiles are handmade using natural clay and lead-free glazes. As a result:

• Tiles are not perfectly uniform
• Slight variations in size, thickness, surface texture, and glaze tone are normal and expected
• Edges may be softly irregular rather than machine-sharp

These characteristics are not defects but an essential part of the handmade aesthetic.

2. Pre-Installation Checks (Very Important)

Before any tiles are fixed:

• Open all boxes and dry-lay tiles to assess colour, tone, and size variation
• Mix tiles from different boxes to ensure an even overall blend
• Check tiles in natural and artificial light
• Confirm you are satisfied with the variation before proceeding

Once tiles are installed, variation-related claims cannot be accepted.

3. Substrate & Surface Preparation

• Surfaces must be clean, dry, level, and structurally sound
• Uneven substrates will exaggerate variation
• Waterproofing must be completed where required (wet areas)
• Use a high-quality flexible adhesive suitable for handmade ceramic tiles

We strongly recommend installation by an experienced tiler familiar with handmade tiles.

4. Tile Layout & Setting Out

Due to slight size variation:

• Perfectly straight, rigid grid layouts are not recommended
• Expect to make micro-adjustments as you go
• Step back frequently to assess overall balance rather than focusing on individual tiles

Take your time — handmade tiles reward patience.

5. Grout Lines & Spacing

Because Akashic Tiles are handmade and slightly varied in size:

• Grout lines must be flexible and adjusted tile by tile
• Do not force tiles into tight, uniform spacing
• Allow grout lines to subtly widen or narrow as needed

This approach ensures a natural, harmonious finish rather than a forced, mechanical look.

6. Grout Colour Selection

Grout colour plays a crucial role in the final appearance of handmade tiles:

• The wrong grout colour can overpower or flatten the tile
• The right grout colour enhances depth, texture, and variation

We strongly encourage clients to contact Akashic Tiles for guidance in selecting an appropriate grout colour.

We are happy to advise based on:

• Tile colour and glaze
• Installation area
• Desired overall aesthetic (soft, tonal, or contrast-driven)

7. Grouting

• Test grout on a sample area before full application
• Use grout suitable for handmade ceramic tiles
• For textured or decorative tiles, clean grout off the surface as you go
• Do not allow grout to dry on the tile face
• Clean gently and avoid aggressive scrubbing
• Do not allow grout haze to fully cure on the surface

Failure to follow proper grouting practices may result in staining or surface damage, for which Akashic Tiles cannot be held responsible.

8. Cutting Tiles

• Expect slight edge variation when cutting
• Use a wet saw with a suitable ceramic blade
• Position cut tiles in less visible areas where possible

9. Sealing (If Applicable)

Some tiles or finishes may benefit from sealing:

• Always test sealers on a sample tile first
• Follow manufacturer instructions carefully

If unsure, please contact Akashic Tiles before sealing. Incorrect sealing or product selection may affect the appearance of the tile and is not considered a product defect.

Need Help?

We are always happy to assist.

Please contact Akashic Tiles for guidance on:

• Grout colour selection
• Layout advice
• Installation considerations

Each installation is unique, and thoughtful planning ensures a beautiful, long-lasting result.