I saw a few tile and grout boards at the tile store. The grout just serves the purpose of binding the tile surface together for sturdiness and for easier cleaning. Ultimately, its up to you to decide what you believe will look best, so experiment with different sizes to determine which fits best with your design. Notify me of follow-up comments by email. The original subway tile was ceramic tile. A larger tile requires more room for contraction and expansion. Your access to this site was blocked by Wordfence, a security provider, who protects sites from malicious activity. Copyright 2023 Why Tile. . A 1/8" size is used for our product lines that feature a rectified, clean-cut edge. Our tiles looked very different before the white grout was added. But now I'm confused. If youre working in a small area with a small tile, such as a 3x12 subway tile on a backsplash or fireplace surround, you can usually have small 1/16 or 1/8 grout lines. Grout lines need to be at least 1/16 for the grout to even fit, and often larger than that depending on a variety of other factors. I'm ready to order the tiles and need to order them asapthis worried me a bit though. YjNlZjU4Y2RkOGI5ZWJjNDFhZWRhMDQzNDRkYjkwNTI2N2Q5OWNjMjZjYTU3 Use a grout knife to mix thoroughly once more. Is the surface level? The size of your tile should be considered when choosing a grout size. Wesley Chapel Kitchen & Bathroom Designers, Grain Valley Kitchen & Bathroom Remodelers, Garden Grove Kitchen & Bathroom Remodelers, Port Angeles Kitchen & Bathroom Remodelers, San Juan Capistrano Kitchen & Bathroom Remodelers. Over 100 years old, subway tile remains a favorite for home and business owners alike. If all else fails, check the Manufacturers Recommendations. Use spacers for an even finish. A Credit Card-Sized Grout Line: How small can we go? I'm using the plain white American Olean Tile from Lowes that's only 22 cents/piece. This is why your tile installer may suggest a larger grout line for a straighter, more professional-looking installation. Large-format tiles, 18-by-18 inches wide, require a smaller grout line (1/32 inch). Can anyone show me photos (either of your kitchen or others) of subway tile with a 1/4" grout line? This is especially the case for walls but will depend on the look you are aiming for with your tiling. How big should grout lines be for subway tile? No-sheen, non-slippery finish. Too small of grout lines can lead to inadequate contraction of the grout, which will make it more prone to cracking and damage. For smaller subway tiles (1x2 or 2x4), some may prefer a slightly wider grout line of 1/16. For reference, my cabinets are a fairly white white as are my subway tiles. Both were probably too confusing for them (the directions don't come in their language) and we are still working the excess off the limestone With handmade tiles, you want to lay a bunch of them out dry, touching. When using thinner grout lines, unsanded grout is recommended and works better with more delicate tile surfaces like ceramic and glass. Simply lay one tile vertically and the other perpendicular to it, and then repeat that pattern. Generated by Wordfence at Mon, 1 May 2023 13:43:09 GMT.Your computer's time: document.write(new Date().toUTCString());. It looks way better (IMO). Safe in food-prep areas. 1/16 is the thinner and more preferred grout line as it gives a more tile and less crap kind of look. Keep in mind that grout serves a purpose-- to fill in voids, make things straight, and also relieve stress. Similarly, if you want the look of a floating tile, such as a tile backsplash, then a thinner grout line should be used. Depending on your selection, their Classic Field tile has different degrees of color variation, but it is in these color variations that a sense of depth, warmth and visual interest is found. I should let OverlyOptimistic know that he/she was misinformed. Kelly - what is your grout line in the shower? After the tiles are fixed, the joints need to be grouted to fill in the gaps, hide any ugly cuts at the edge and add a contrasting or . The rectified tiles are made either from ceramic or porcelain. Brick Shown: Glazed Thin Brick in a custom color for Barebottle Brewing, Brick Shown: Front Range // Design: Jon De La Cruz // Photo: House Beautiful. The confidence that we always have your back. Using a staggered tile transition, you can transition your tile design to another subway tile color, another tile shape, or another material altogether. All-white bathrooms were common during the Victorian era, since they reserved plain tiles for the less visible areas of the home. A subway tile has a traditional and standard size of 3 x 6 inches. Grout lines and their organization is a critical feature in any tile installation project and requires an in-depth thought process. What material is subway tile? Shop online and get free delivery on orders over 300. Subway tile is typically 3 x 6 inches, but this backsplash proves thats not a hard and fast rule. -----BEGIN REPORT----- What grout line size shoud I use for a 12" x 24" shower wall tile? 3 x 6 inch subway tiles typically have grout joints of 1/16 inch, but 1/8 inch grout joints are also common. Houzz Pro: One simple solution for contractors and design pros. A large tile, such as 12x24, usually requires a 3/16 grout line, so its best to check the manufacturers recommendations to see how small you can go. [Related: Tile Trend Ideas: Textured Tile]. The use of 1/4 tile spacers is recommended for almost all types of ceramic and porcelain tile installations. When choosing tile spacers, its important to consider the size of the tile youre working with and the look you want to achieve. The width of this line makes a very noticeable difference in the final appearance. ZTQzNzNhNDU0YzJhZmUyOTZmMTUzZmM5NjQ5YmI2NTk1YTQxMjkwMGFiOTVk This option is a great choice for smaller tile applications such as backsplashes. As a rule of thumb, each subway tile should be a perfect rectangle with the length twice its width. is 1/8", the actual grout joint will need to be 3/16". If I use gray - will it be so skinny you won't see much color anyway? Mine is 1/16" from the way my tiles are, when you butt them up together, it automatically leaves 1/16" . My installer ended up using whatever stock white grout that Home Depot had. (and it looks just fine!) Stress from home settling may also be an issue with little grout space. If put on too thickly, the thinset mortar can cause uneven tile heights. We can have narrow width lines only with the prime quality tiles that are strong and durable. It gives an airtight sealing to the surface and does not let any litter or sand particles enter the space between the tiles. This way, the tiles do not lose their luster, and frequent wiping is not necessary. It is an aesthetic decision whether to go slightly larger or tighter. 3 x 6 inch subway tiles typically have grout joints of 1/16 inch, but 1/8 inch grout joints are also common. It looks clean. The grout line will almost be invisible, and the texture of the tiles will come out nicely. Cement and epoxy versions have different appearances, durability and rules of installation, Get a polished, high-end look from subway tiles old and new, It repels water. Generally speaking, many people prefer to grout that is lighter than the tile color, as this helps create a cohesive look and makes the tile look more uniform. A 50% tile pattern is not recommended because it can give a visual illusion that the tile is out of alignment with the walls or floor in the room, making it look disjointed or off-balance. With your 1224 tiles you should use a 1/2 notched trowel on the wall and back butter each tile, but just with a skim coat. Tile Shown: Hexite in Dusty Blue, Nautical, Slate Blue // Design: Young America Creative // Photo: Roger Casas. Doing so will help ensure that the tile will lay flat against the wall surface and will prevent the tile from popping out of place. I like the contrast, but I think we would have been happy with a lighter gray too. Subway tile with high-contrast grout emphasizes the pattern, whereas subway tile with matching grout creates a seamless look. NjU0M2YwNDExYjI3NjY1YWIxODE0ODgwZDk5M2YxYTY5MjkxMjU5YTkyOTU2 If youre covering a larger area, such as a floor or shower wall, look at the size of your tile. What are the dimensions of subway tile? She also said to take my two samples at home and see how close they can be butted up together. Usually these tiles are set a little further apart, such as a 1/8-3/16 grout line. Terms of Service Edlakin - Phew! What is the smallest grout line for backsplash? Redroze, mine were either 1/8 or 1/16. Match if possible, or use one shade darker or lighter but in the same palette of the tile if you can't match. Take note of the sizing difference and the accuracy with reference to squareness. 1/8 for backsplash if you don't want them looking huge. Bring your dream look to life with our big floor tiles. You all have such beautiful subway tile. Using plain white rectangle tiles and a simple tile layout, subway tile has managed to create a design thats equally impactful and easy to achieve. Additionally, excessively small grout lines are not very aesthetically pleasing, as they can give the appearance of fillers or a continuous pattern, rather than a separate, unique tile. I think the 1/4" line was one of those 1980s fads best left unrevived :) Here's a pic: 1/16" looks modern/contemporary with matching grout.1/8" or more with contrasting grout looks more traditional (80s dated?). On a larger scale, the 50% tile pattern can be time consuming, as it requires time and precision to maintain an exact center cut when laying the tile. Using a high-quality grout sealer will, The easiest way to do this is to put some mixed grout on the tile and drag it across the joints at a shallow angle, Grout dries lighter. Use a single grout shade that will work for both tile styles a mid-toned gray is a safe choice. If youre looking to draw attention to the individual pieces, a bolder grout might be the way to go. If you are thumbs up for grout lines, then the next thing you need to consider is the width and color of the lines. Choosing the right grout line size is always important for your subway tile project. For regular-format tiles, between 12 by 12 and 16 by 16 inches, you can stay with those measurements or go up to 3/16, depending on the tile and the look you want. Though ceramic and porcelain tiles are the most common, glass and metal tiles are available as well. Additionally, you should use spacers to keep all exterior walls and corners properly aligned and precise. Consider researching the details, such as how to install subway tile backsplash corners or how to tile a shower niche with subway tile. Similarly, the rounded edges of tumbled or chiseled natural stone tiles make their grout lines look larger, while natural stone tiles with a square edge will help the grout line look smaller. However, if youre going for an old world, farmhouse, or Mediterranean design, especially with hand crafted-looking tiles, a wider 3/16 grout line will give you that vintage aesthetic. On the other hand, if you have larger tiles and you want wider grout lines, you should get 1/8 or 3/16 tile spacers. You don't want the grout lines to become the focus. Grout absorbs movement from the natural contraction and expansion your tiles will experience from temperature and humidity changes. If you have subway tile with a particular grout line, would appreciate if you could tell me the grout thickness as well as any photos. The actual grout joint size should be equal to three times the variance in actual tile facial dimensions. it would be way to big and clunky looking. Yes, grout lines can be too big. This may cause problems in mathematical aspects of the tiling work. How to lay subway tile in a herringbone pattern: Laying herringbone tile may be slightly more complicated than laying a traditional offset pattern as it involves diagonal cuts around outlets and the edges of your space. There will be sand everywhere but in the end the extra effort is worth it. Wipe the tile edges with a damp sponge and seal the grout lines. Even selecting 1/8 vs. 3/16 grout line subway tile can make you question which is best. Calacatta Gold Beveled Marble Subway Tile 3X6 SKU: TCFCT8836BPA 6 $39.90 per sq. Were here to help! This process helps the tile to adhere better to the wall surface and will also fill in the voids and irregularities on the back of the tile. Also, more tiles and time is required, which will lighten your pockets. Regular - 12 X 12 up to 16 X 16 inches square. For instance, a smaller grout line size is typically not recommended in areas that are prone to staining and/or require frequent cleaning, such as flooring in kitchens and bathrooms, as dirt and debris can accumulate in the small crevices. This is also a great choice on wall tiles as it can draw your eye upwards and make a space appear larger. Grout gives a smooth ending to the brittle marble corners, so they do not rub against each other and scrap out. Now heres a way to make your subway tile stand out (literally). Also, if you are not a big fan of grout lines, then only use rectified tiles from a reputable company in your project. Required fields are marked *. kellythompson - this is a NINE year old thread. Alternatively, you can use painters tape to cover the beveled edges of the tile, which keeps the grout from getting stuck in any. Since most tiles are hand-made, they are not cloning of one another and may differ in sizes. The size of spacers you need for subway tile depends on the size of your tiles and the desired grout lines. How many cubic feet in one quickcrete bag. Note that using the smallest grout joint possible will increase installation time. Subway tile is a popular choice for showers as well, and traditional white subway tile showers are a particular favorite for those who want to create a Victorian-inspired design. The inspiration doesnt have to stop here, though: Visit our Design Gallery and Pinterest board for even more creative subway tile designs to admire. Without grout, your tiles could buckle and come loose. Textured tile creates a subway tile design that youll admire and want to reach out and touch. Plus this is the kitchen forum and you're posting about your bathroom Kelly. Thanks!! We'll keep you updated with new products, design trends, promotions and any exciting happenings around the studio. Let grout rest (slake) for up to 10 minutes. The variety of available ceramic tile options means you can even combine sizes for a one-of-a-kind look.. Depending on your design, you may also want to opt for color-coordinated spacers to pair with the color of your grout and tile. Herringbone subway tile adds a sense of movement to any application and can be laid at different angles to different effects. What grout line size do you need for 3" x 6" subway tile? One trend is to sprinkle tiles of a different color into your subway tile design in a random fashion, giving you unique looks like the one pictured above. NmY2NDBlY2Q0NmRlYjRhOTM4MmZiNzk4ZWJmODkwODE2MWJjMjM2Yzg4NDRm I'm sharing my favorite gray grouts to help you choose the best one! If I use gray - will it be so skinny you won't see much color anyway? I tried to find a photo of the grout installed, but I don't have anything better than the following: {{!gwi}}We move in on Monday, so I can take more then if you want. Now I've seen and know I love it. Having grout lines that are too large can detract from the overall look of a tiled area, particularly if the tiles used are small. shaker style on old beveled cabinet doors. Subway tile is an excellent choice for staggered tile transitions, and the combination draws attention to the creative layout patterns subway tile can create. NWY4YjJhMzY3MzA4NDJjNmVlZDE5NmNiZDg0ZTAyNDdmMDljN2EyYzZmNTcx I don't want a big grout line. The middle of each tile should line up with the edges of the two tiles above and beneath it. Thank you!!! Our subway tiles are a bright, cool white. But some also prefer grout line for all the already discussed reasons like a sturdier and durable finish. The XT is supposed to be more stain resistant (than other grouts? Hi, everyone! Good luck! In general, there is more size variation in larger-sized handmade tiles so they need a bigger grout joint for that to be less noticeable and to acheive a more even installation. Finally, accomplishing the pattern may require additional material, such as grout and adhesive, which adds to the cost of the tile project. It is also important to consider the grouts staining capabilities as different grout sizes can help increase the desired visual effect in a space. It can be used in sealing joints and stuffing voids. And any good brands for grout? [Related: Bathroom and Kitchen Backsplash Tile: Your Comprehensive Guide]. Accessibility, See our tile in your home - your first 5 Samples are FREE! All of our Handpainted collections feature this type of edge. Dark-colored grout and tiles are preferred when one does not have time for constant maintenance or has pets or kids in their house. If you have tight grout lines, you would be using unsanded grout, which looks whiter than the sanded version of the same color. Remember, smaller subway (3x6 inches) tiles can go along with 1/8-inch size spacers. A tight, 1/8" grout space will allow the pattern to flow nicely from one tile to the next. If your surface is not level, the grout will slope from one tile to another. With just the tiles up, it appeared to have a dark gray grout just from the shadows between the tiles. The large format Porcelanosa tile we used in our MB is a very white, very glossy tile, so we wanted a white grout that matched well. A large tile, such as 12x24", usually requires a 3/16" grout line, so it's best to check the manufacturer's recommendations to see how small you can go. Check out the Laticrete perma color-bright white #44. Ultimately its up to personal preference, and testing out both lighter and darker grouting is a great idea to see how it looks in the space. If smaller spacers, like 1/8", are used it will accentuate the size difference of handmade tile. How big should grout lines be for subway tile? This line formed by grout around the tiles is what we call a grout line or grout joints. Love it, gives just the effect I wanted for my bungalow bath. YjViNzMxMDg4M2U4MGIxMTI3ZjBiZDQxODk1MDBjZjE4YTExMTA4YWU5NjVi Glass Tile Shown: Rosy Finch Matte 4x12 // Design: Project M plus, Oh Joy // Image: Bethany Nauert. I just ordered the tile, SO excited. Its important to note that larger tile spacers offer more stability during the installation process, so you may want to go with slightly larger ones. MDg4NTMwMTBjZmVlYTM0MzU5NTAzNTIxOGFjYmY1ZWI5MTY1MzllNDkxMzIy Yjg4NTQxZjk0YWQ4ZmJiOTJmOGNlMTM3YmIzYzhhZmFmMjkyNjJjNzhmYzE5 Escher Smoke mosaic with Dimensions Onyx glass grout. In such cases, thin grout lines are our only option. Let's Talk About Grout Size Options Finished grout lines will vary from 1/16" to 3/16". Its sanitary appearance and health benefits meant that it was soon being used anywhere hygiene was a concern, including kitchens and bathrooms. It is recommended for certain applications such as for swimming pool areas, steam rooms and spas. Uneven edges can create an old-world look, but this also means the tiles cannot be right next to each other. Because subway tile typically has 1-to-2 dimensions, you can use the short side of a tile to determine the middle point of the long side. Fireplace surrounds can benefit from subway tile as well, such as this weathered reddish-brown subway tile. However, white subway tile and, indeed, any subway tile color can be paired with any color of grout. Rectified tiles are fired and then the edges are cut off, leading to a very precise, square edge. I've been reading a post about grey grout so I will revisit it. A horizontal herringbone < or > pattern creates movement horizontally rather than vertically. For regular-format tiles, between 12 by 12 and 16 by 16 inches, you can stay with those measurements or go up to 3/16, depending on the tile and the look you want. While they do come in many different sizes, 3" x 6" subway tile is by far the most common and was actually their original intended dimensions. So, the things you need to consider for the proper width of the grout line are: The grout line should be thin if the tiles are small and thick if the tiles are more prominent as the grout lines form a frame for the tiles, and it must be proportionate with each block of the tile. Should grout be lighter or darker than tile? This thickness leaves room for the natural variation in size, and the perfectly imperfect edges of handmade tile. There is an appearance of fine finishing with grout lines, which is quite blunt without these lines. This is small enough to provide adequate support to the tiles and also make sure that there is a clear enough gap for it to be filled in with grout. To determine the size grout to use, you should consider the size of the joints or cracks you are trying to fill and the size and type of tiles being used. Whether you stick with the traditional subway tile layout or not, there are plenty of other options to make your subway tile stand out. Has anyone noticed that? Backsplashes are perhaps the most common place we see subway tile today. One of the most serious issues is the weakening of the grout, which can lead to water penetration and the formation of mold. After my experience with the Custom Building Products grout for my floors, I'm worried about using it again. I want a grout line no bigger than a credit card! Sorry, but a 1/32 grout line will lead to failure. Today, subway tiles popularity continues to grow. Find even more ways to make your subway tile unique in our video. When it comes to grout versus tile, it really depends on the look and feel you want to create in your space. Hence, there may be an installer cost associated with utilizing smaller grout lines. Ultimately, the size of grout lines will largely depend on the type of tile, the desired look, and the practicality of the application. This kitchen backsplash opts for a neutral beige subway tile for a brick effect, but no color is off the table. If grout lines are too small, it can lead to a number of issues. Check it on Amazon. The closer you install handmade tile together, the more apparent the size variation will become as shown below. Generally, the color of the grout line is like the color of the tile as contrasting colors may create an illusion of smaller space. Mjg1MzZhZGU2YTQzOWI3YmFkNGMzMTMxZTVhZDZmMTFiYTk0YzkzODIxNTA4 NTAyMzY4YjkwZjRmMTQ1MGY5ZTQxZWE2MzZmMGQyMDViNmJlM2Q1MjM5ZWM2 If you are calling the professionals for the job, then the Installation team from the Tile Company will take care of all the factors mentioned above. Floor Tile Category. There were some areas on the layout that could be 1/16, but others that were 1/8. A 1/16" grout line is most commonly used for 3" x 6" subway tile, particularly when covering walls. You might be wondering, why are subway tiles called subway tiles? As a result of this testing, the tile manufacturer will often have a recommended grout size. However, a 1/8 inch size spacer will create a thinner grout line giving a seamless look to your project. In addition, it is the best option for areas where precision installation is required such as for backsplashes and kitchen walls. For example, when using large format tiles, a narrower grout line (1/8 inch) should be used in order to maintain the look of cohesion on the surface. MDFiZjkzY2ZmYmMwMDZhNzQwODI0ODc4ZGM2YjYzOWNkZjA1YjBjZTQ2MTZh Bluekit, I realized that you said it's from HD. Can I add grout to new shallow grout joints? More logical option when it is the matter of cheap tiles. But if you want something funky and different and you have big walls, then you can always experiment. Before the technological advancements of modern tile making, porcelain and ceramic tiles were highly irregular (some cheaply-made modern tiles still are). Maybe zombie threads do appeal to some. Its important to be sure that the type of spacer you select is suitable for the material of the tile youre installing, as some materials arent compatible with certain types of spacers. Generally, for larger subway tiles (3"x6" or 4"x8"), grout lines that are 1/8" wide are recommended to avoid over-emphasizing the lines of the tile. Some tiles are irregular by design, not subpar manufacturing. Before installing your tile, we suggest you do a dry layout to determine where your cuts will be needed. It is also preferable for areas that need increased chemical and physical resistance such as commercial applications. Are subway tiles expensive? At first glance, this white subway tile backsplash appears quite similar to the traditional white subway tile design, but its subtle marble veining adds a luxurious twist. What happens if grout lines are too small? As we know grout is a mixture of water, sand, and cement., As you walk on tile floors, the grout becomes weaker and can eventually start to show unsightly cracks. We recently used TEX XT grout in Bright White--#910 in our bathrooms, and it looks very white. But I'm sure you'll be getting lots more input from others with more exerience. Ultimately, there are multiple factors to consider when choosing between grout lines, and the decision should be tailored to the individual application to ensure the best results. width x 6 in. Stagger your subway tiles by 25% and youll get the look of stairs climbing up and down your wall. Additionally, the white and glossy design of the first subway tiles formed a highly reflective surface that helped create a safe, sanitary feeling for passengers who may have had concerns about travelling underground. Application Location . Grout is oyster grey.{{!gwi}}. If youre setting tiles on an 18 tall, 6 wide kitchen backsplash, you dont need as much wiggle room as a 10x20 floor. YzdlYjJiODYxZjBmNjcwNmM1ZDYxZDM2MjVlZmIxOWZjY2Q0NzRjZTQxNDMy Our space is 1/16th of an inch and still not grouted as yet. The most popular grout line sizing for 3" x 6" subway tiles is 1/16" and 1/8". Malhgold - You're so on the ball here!! Subway tile also comes in a diverse range of sizes from the conventional 3 by 6 inches to oversized ones. Made of ceramic tile, subway tile is known for both its durability and its timeless style. Additionally, the smaller grout lines provide the benefit of trapping less dirt, as smaller grout is more difficult to penetrate. You made me feel even better. They tend to have a slightly rounded pillow edge. TCNA recommends a minimum 1/8" grout joint for rectified tile and minimum 3/16" grout .