Frequently Asked Questions

Zia’s limestone tiles are quarried near Fez, Morocco, and Bordeaux, France, where ancient craftsmanship meets natural beauty. Limestone has been used in architecture for thousands of years—from the pyramids to Mediterranean villas—and our collection carries that legacy into modern spaces.

Each tile is cut from solid blocks of natural limestone and finished by local stone masons. Our honed tiles are gently smoothed for a clean, matte surface, while our hammered finish uses a bush hammer to create a textured, rustic feel. No two pieces are alike—each tile is shaped by time and technique.

Yes. Limestone is porous and should always be sealed before and after grouting. Use only pH-neutral cleaners to avoid etching the surface, and re-seal as needed—especially in high-traffic or wet areas. Expect a natural patina to develop over time.

Sweep or vacuum regularly to remove grit, and clean with warm water and a pH-neutral stone cleaner. Avoid acidic or abrasive products, which can damage the surface. For deeper cleaning, use a non-acidic heavy-duty cleaner like Miracle Heavy Duty Cleaner (Acid Substitute).

Limestone should be installed by a professional tile installer, who has experience in natural stone. Here’s a general overview of the process:

• Blend tiles from all boxes to distribute natural variation.
• Clean off dust residue with a heavy spray before installation, then let dry.
• Wet the back of each tile before applying thin set, and press into place using a rubber mallet.
• Seal the tiles before grouting, using a penetrating sealer like 511 Porous Plus.
• Grout in small sections with Mapei Flexcolor CQ and wipe excess immediately.
• Finish with a protective wax indoors, or an additional coat of sealer for outdoor use.

For detailed step-by-step instructions, please review our Limestone Installation Guide.