Lippage (tiling)
Also called: tile lippage, tile lipping, uneven tile edges
Lippage is the height difference between the edges of two adjacent tiles — one sits slightly proud of the next, leaving an edge you can feel with a foot or a hand. A tiny amount is sometimes unavoidable, but visible lippage is the classic sign of large-format tiles or stone laid on a bed that isn't flat, or without the coverage and levelling they need. It shows up more with big slabs and polished stone, because the bigger and shinier the tile, the more any lip catches the light and the eye, and a raised edge is also a trip and chip risk. The fix isn't cosmetic grouting, it's substrate preparation and full adhesive coverage so every tile beds evenly — which is exactly why marble and large-format work is specialist. Getting lippage put right, or avoided on a new install, is work for Al Ghubaiba's maintenance team, because it comes down to the bed and the setting, not the tile.
Related terms
Movement (control) joint — tiling
A deliberate flexible gap left in a tiled area — filled with sealant, not rigid grout — that absorbs thermal and structural movement so tiles don't tent or crack.
Tile trim (edge trim / profile)
The metal or PVC profile that finishes an exposed tile edge or external corner — protects the vulnerable edge and gives a neat line instead of a raw or mitred edge.
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