If you have tight grout lines, you would be using unsanded grout, which looks whiter than the sanded version of the same color. Glass has clean edges allowing for a tight install. Add water to grouting powder in the manufacturer-recommend ratio. What is the Jane Austen Society of North America. Available sizes are 2x8, 3x6, 3x12, and 4x16. Certain materials, such as porcelain and glass tiles, may require a wet saw. Hence, there may be an installer cost associated with utilizing smaller grout lines. If your tiles are larger than 2 inches, you should use a 1/8-inch spacer. MDFiZjkzY2ZmYmMwMDZhNzQwODI0ODc4ZGM2YjYzOWNkZjA1YjBjZTQ2MTZh Notify me of follow-up comments by email. Ceramic tile is flame-resistant, so you neednt worry about heat or flame harming your tile. Size of Spacers For a standard look, grout lines should be 1/8 inch for the floor and 1/16 inch for the walls. I used a 1/16 grout line. Grade 1, first-quality ceramic tile for wall use 3 in. MDg4NTMwMTBjZmVlYTM0MzU5NTAzNTIxOGFjYmY1ZWI5MTY1MzllNDkxMzIy We recommend a 1/16" grout size for our Glass Tile. Tara Horvath We used a TEC brand DeLorean Gray, and a matching caulk at the countertop. This option is a great choice for smaller tile applications such as backsplashes. Subway tiles are typically manufactured for use as wall tiles and they commonly appear in applications such as those featured below. Edlakin - Phew! MzU2MTAzMDQ0MTUxZTg5ZWRlMWUwOGM3MGU5NDRiNzAzZTIyNjY1ZGZmNGNh You can also do the opposite and go with larger-than-average subway tiles. Adding tile accents is another way to make your subway tile unique. Some tiles are irregular by design, not subpar manufacturing. You should also keep in mind that when tiling over a corner, your grout joint will open up, and when tiling into a recess, the top of the grout joint will narrow. Today, subway tiles popularity continues to grow. The middle of each tile should line up with the edges of the two tiles above and beneath it. If you do not have these tools or the skills to use them safely, we recommend hiring a qualified tile installer. If your tiles are smaller than 2 inches, you should use a 1/16-inch spacer. Rating 0 is suitable for residential and commercial walls Semi-Vitreous flooring has water absorption of more than 3% but less than 7% for indoor use Not frost resistant All in all, determining the proper width of the grout line is necessary. If you want it brighter, go with white.). YjdhZmI0ZDExZTkwNTIwY2MyMTVlYzlmNTc2ZGMyMDI4OTIyYzhjYTdiYzU4 One of the most serious issues is the weakening of the grout, which can lead to water penetration and the formation of mold. NmY2NDBlY2Q0NmRlYjRhOTM4MmZiNzk4ZWJmODkwODE2MWJjMjM2Yzg4NDRm Before the technological advancements of modern tile making, porcelain and ceramic tiles were highly irregular (some cheaply-made modern tiles still are). If it's pretty good, and you don't see much variation, you might be able to get away with an 1/8" joint. 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?). It is also important to note that it is possible to over butter the tile. 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. Another way to make your subway tile unique: Choose a subway tile with a textured surface. But now I'm confused. I liked that look as well! Our subway tiles are a bright, cool white. N2M0NGU2MTJiZTNkNjRkNWIyMTRlYmRkOGRkZDAyZTcwY2ZiMWY0ZjBjY2E3 Who said subway tile has to be white? How Do I Hang Curtains Over Vertical Blinds That Stick Out? Pressed tiles are shaped and then fired. This thickness leaves room for the natural variation in size, and the perfectly imperfect edges of handmade tile. The XT is supposed to be more stain resistant (than other grouts? Copyright 2023 Why Tile. What grout line size do you need for 3" x 6" subway tile? Sealing the grout will actually strengthen it and help to prevent cracks and signs of excess wear and tear. We recommend a 3/16" grout size for our Ceramic Tile. Houzz Pro: One simple solution for contractors and design pros. The soaking ability of the grout prevents long-term rusting or tarnishing of the tiles. Selecting the right tile is also very necessary as determining the width of the grout line is majorly based on the shape and size of the tiles being used. 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. A trend growing in popularity, staggered tile transitions, ends along the tiles natural shape rather than cutting the tile to create a straight edge. Here are some creative ways to install subway tile. Lastly, tiles can move more freely when the grout lines are too small, as they have less support between adjacent tiles. It cannot be used in tiles having a put-together puzzle kind of design as the break-in continuity may turn the design unsightly. 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. MWQ4ZGU3YmYwMDc5OGRlN2MxYjZkYjg3MmU3ZmM2OTVmYzRkODUyOWFiYWIw Use spacers for uniformity of the lines. If smaller spacers, like 1/8", are used it will accentuate the size difference of handmade tile. OGI5ODkyMDQwYjAxMGJkZjM3MDk0NzUwODg2ZDFiYmU0ZmIxMDYyNzg2MzZh A key feature of modern subway tile is the pushing of boundaries to find unique new ways to showcase subway tile design. Tiles can give your walls and floor a very classy look and are very easy to maintain. I layed out our tile and it looks like we're going to have to go with 1/8" grout. No-sheen, non-slippery finish. Without grout, messes and germs can slip through the cracks and cause problems. Redroze, mine were either 1/8 or 1/16. Ultimately, it is best to stick with the manufacturers recommended grout size and grout joints that are two-thirds the width of the tiles. White subway tile with colored grout draws attention to the tile layout pattern, whereas subway tile with matching grout creates a more seamless design. There were some areas on the layout that could be 1/16, but others that were 1/8. What are the dimensions of subway tile? The original subway tile was ceramic tile. PS The subway tile is handmade tile (Waterworks/Architectonics line) so I guess they are not completely uniform. You can also use 1/8" for a slightly thicker grout line. You can remedy this by using caulk, Copyright 2023 HouseholdFAQ | Powered by Astra WordPress Theme. However, one potential downside to using smaller grout lines is that they are more difficult to work with, as the smaller joints more quickly fill with grout and require more precise work. Many older tile installations have smaller tiles (6-12) with large grout lines, and as such wide grout lines tend to look old-fashioned. Bluekit, I realized that you said it's from HD. YzA1NjRiMWI3ZTNhNjU2MDllNzNjNWYxMjg0MzBmMzZmYTBkYjA3YWViMDRl Victorians prioritized hygiene, so easy-to-clean, stain-resistant, and bacteria-resistant ceramic tile was a natural choice. NTAyMzY4YjkwZjRmMTQ1MGY5ZTQxZWE2MzZmMGQyMDViNmJlM2Q1MjM5ZWM2 The grout fills the gap between the tiles very effectively. I just got off the phone with them and they handmade tiles are done 1/8 to 3/16!! It's not necessary to seal it, but you can (with a solvent-based sealer). Once grouted, the line between the pressed tiles will look larger than the same sized line between the rectified tiles. NjU0M2YwNDExYjI3NjY1YWIxODE0ODgwZDk5M2YxYTY5MjkxMjU5YTkyOTU2 You can also lay your subway tiles in a straight (or 90-degree) herringbone pattern. OGUyYjhiMTU4ZDA3NGZmMzAzY2JiOTZhNDZlNTdkYjk3Yjk2MDcyZDlkYjVj Your email address will not be published. The confidence that we always have your back. When determining what color grout to use with subway tile, consider whether you want to draw attention to the layout pattern or not. Y2ZmMmQ3OTJmZTk5NjI3Zjk5NGJmMjI4NDVkOTM1MGZlODY3MTFiY2E2NmE1 Application Location . 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. You might be wondering, why are subway tiles called subway tiles? Just make sure there is minimal contrast between the tile and the grout color. How long does it take to install subway tile? Overall, smaller grout lines generally tend to be a better option, depending on the specific application. Subway Tile Wainscoting Puts Bathrooms on the Right Track, 10 Gorgeous Backsplash Alternatives to Subway Tile, Houzz Travel Guide: Atlanta for Design Lovers, 3 Key Steps for Grouting That Looks Its Best. It is important to use the same sized spacer between every two tiles to ensure a consistent look and even grout lines. Tile Shown: Hexite in Dusty Blue, Nautical, Slate Blue // Design: Young America Creative // Photo: Roger Casas. 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. NGUxYTFmYTU2ZWVmZjZlOGNhZjdiMWVmZDRmYzdmYjA4OWY2OTcwOGU5MzIy Alternatively, you can use painters tape to cover the beveled edges of the tile, which keeps the grout from getting stuck in any. 3 x 6 inch subway tiles typically have grout joints of 1/16 inch, but 1/8 inch grout joints are also common. The width of this line makes a very noticeable difference in the final appearance. So, to even out the irregularities in the shape and size of the tiles, grout can be used. While we definitely have recommendations for grout size for each Fireclay product line, there really is no set width requirement. 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. that's wrong, imo. Eastland-Fairfield Career and Technical Schools, Pantones 2021 Colors of the Year: Ultimate Gray and Illuminating, Open Shelving Tile Backsplashes and Tile Walls: Explore Your Options, They were first used in New York subway stations, easy-to-clean, stain-resistant, and bacteria-resistant ceramic tile, so long as the area is not exposed to a lot of moisture, 3 x 6 inch subway tiles typically have grout joints of 1/16 inch, Fall in Love With Tile: Fall-Inspired Tile Styles, In the Industry? MGZiMDdlNTcwOTFjNjk0ZGIwM2ZiZmFmYTVmODM2NzE0YmYzYTg1MTQxNGQ0 Match if possible, or use one shade darker or lighter but in the same palette of the tile if you can't match. YjBlMzBhOTgxYjcxYjVmNGE5OTRkMmQwZDEyZWMwMmNkMzc2MzM0NzIxMThi This maintains the ceramic tiles look and allows for a proper seal between each tile which prevents moisture damage, shifting, and cracking. I want to put grey grout with my white subway tile but have been nervous because I hadn't actually seen this anywhere. If grout lines are too small, it can lead to a number of issues. >. The size of tile spacers you should get will depend on the size of your tiles and the type of look you want to achieve. Here is a link that might be useful: {{!gwi}}. What is the smallest grout line for backsplash? Calacatta Gold Beveled Marble Subway Tile 3X6 SKU: TCFCT8836BPA 6 $39.90 per sq. Using an off color grout like that is there for one reason-- to give the tile pattern a SUBTLE highlight-- not stand out and say "LOOK AT ME!". This is especially important for Glass tile installations as glass is more sensitive to stress cracking than ceramic tile. Check it on Amazon. Safe in food-prep areas. What happens if grout lines are too small? Shop online and get free delivery on orders over 300. I think I'm using a 1/16th grout line in my bathroom. How to lay subway tile: For the traditional subway tile design, lay tiles with a 50% offset. Stress from home settling may also be an issue with little grout space. If you cant choose just one color for your subway tile, multicolor subway tile is for you. However, any rectangular tile with 1-to-2 dimensions can work as subway tile, with other subway tile sizes including 2 x 4, 4 x 8, and 6 x 12. However, most traditional subway tile applications are relatively quick to install, especially for small areas such as backsplashes. Subway tile also comes in a diverse range of sizes from the conventional 3 by 6 inches to oversized ones. mountaineergirl --- You can tell the difference. However, the actual finished grout spacing will vary from 1/8" to 1/4" if 3/16" spacers are used. Subway tile with high-contrast grout emphasizes the pattern, whereas subway tile with matching grout creates a seamless look. MzY0ODI5ZmVjYWE2NGI0NGNjZTllYmVmOGU0NGRiNDI2MmMzNmQwM2ZmNDg0 You don't want the grout lines to become the focus. 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. And any good brands for grout? If you have tile, you need grout. However, a 1/8 inch size spacer will create a thinner grout line giving a seamless look to your project. This has the added benefit of helping to hide size and shape differences in these tiles. Weve included a little historical perspective, the general characteristics of traditional subway tile, creative subway tile installation patterns and adaptations, and some ideas on how to use subway tile in your home. The presence or absence of a grout line makes a significant difference in the final appearance of the tiled surface. Light-colored grout lines get dirty and stained quickly and must be wiped at constant time intervals. We used ivory subway tile with a 1/8" grout line and "alabaster" grout (one shade darker) for our . Its much harder to pick up on a 1/16 size difference between tiles when theyre 1/2 apart. Yes, grout line size does matter, and the size of grout lines varies depending on the type of tile and the application. Subway tiles are traditionally laid in a 50% offset, meaning that the middle of the tile aligns with the edges of the two tiles above or beneath it. Again, when it comes to size you should keep in mind that the tighter the grout joint, the more variation from tile to tile will show, which can cause an installation to look sloppy. For smaller subway tiles (1x2 or 2x4), some may prefer a slightly wider grout line of 1/16. With just the tiles up, it appeared to have a dark gray grout just from the shadows between the tiles. [Related: Tile Trend Ideas: Textured Tile]. Only go this route if youre tiling a larger area, such as an entire shower. How many cubic feet in one quickcrete bag. NWY4YjJhMzY3MzA4NDJjNmVlZDE5NmNiZDg0ZTAyNDdmMDljN2EyYzZmNTcx The subway grout was supposed to be white and the grout lines are way too thick. The size of grout lines for tile is something that comes up with just about every tile installation and is a question we are asked almost every day. This is white subway with 1/16th grout lines, silver grout, in my bathroom: Thank you for posting this photo! shaker style on old beveled cabinet doors. 1/8 Vs. 1/16 Grout Line Best Size for Subway Tile Spacers. Use spacers for an even finish. And, choosing the right color combination is also not a cakewalk. It is okay to install subway tile over drywall so long as the area is not exposed to a lot of moisture. Available finishes are glossy and matte. 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. Twists on the Classic Subway Tile Pattern Now that you know some general characteristics of traditional subway tile, forget them. Contractors will do whatever is easiest or "standard"- thicker grout lines. Remember, smaller subway (3x6 inches) tiles can go along with 1/8-inch size spacers. This kitchen backsplash opts for a neutral beige subway tile for a brick effect, but no color is off the table. Smaller grout lines create a smoother, more uniform look, and can help to make a surface look more contemporary and cleaner. For example, if youd like a more seamless look, you may opt for a thinner grout line. MDhkNTQzMzNjMTcxNCIsInNpZ25hdHVyZSI6IjIyNWEwYjI1ZGI2Zjc4NWRk Enter your Square Footage OR Click to Calculate SQ FT OR Always Order an Extra 15% Overage for Cuts and Reserve Total price: $0.00 Add to cart 4 interest-free installments or from $18.01/mo with View sample plans A 1/16" grout line is most commonly used for 3" x 6" subway tile, particularly when covering walls. It can fill the gaps and voids formed in the process of laying the tiles. Now heres a way to make your subway tile stand out (literally). It will create a thinner grout line and give the finished project a more seamless look. Grout gives a smooth ending to the brittle marble corners, so they do not rub against each other and scrap out. Brick Shown: Lewis Range // Design: Amanda Jane Jones // Photos: Stoffer Photography. Large tiles are perfect for opening up smaller floor spaces or creating a seamless design across open plan flooring. Bring your dream look to life with our big floor tiles. The term subway tile typically refers to rectangular tiles (usually 3 x 6 inches) laid horizontally with a 50% offset. ZWY1NTA0YTZkMTAyNWZhNWQxNjEyNDAwZmJiZGNiN2NmNTNhZjI5NTUwNDkx 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. Made of ceramic tile, subway tile is known for both its durability and its timeless style. Depending on your design, you may also want to opt for color-coordinated spacers to pair with the color of your grout and tile. Additionally, for tiles with larger joints or cracks a larger size grout may be necessary. While the incredible popularity of this tile design may make you wonder if its just another short-lived trend, its longevity is a major clue that this isnt the case. When it comes to style, youll want to choose a spacer that will work with the design of your tile. I just went for the classic 3 x 6 size glossy white ceramic tile - mine are AKDO brand that I got through a local tile dealer! Zjc5ZjJmYTc3ZGVkMjJmZWRjZGEyMTg2ZWI0MWRhYjQxNmJmNTE2ZDQwNTcz When using thinner grout lines, unsanded grout is recommended and works better with more delicate tile surfaces like ceramic and glass. The Bright White looked just slightly yellow-ish to me sometimes. Why Tile Partner Resources. But if you have a small space, then 1/16 can be great for accentuating the sizing and variation of each time, while the 1/8 grout line provides for a more clean-cut edge. Find even more ways to make your subway tile unique in our video. Privacy Policy Use a grout knife to mix thoroughly once more. YjBmMjc3MWMwNWRlY2RhYjRlZDNkZmJiNjcwZmM5YmNkYmUxN2VhZTc2ZDdj The closer you install handmade tile together, the more apparent the size variation will become as shown below. If you believe Wordfence should be allowing you access to this site, please let them know using the steps below so they can investigate why this is happening. Since grout ensures a sturdy build to the tiles, cheap and frail tiles cannot be installed with a thin grout line. length x 6mm thick wall field tile Glazed glossy smooth finish with a uniform - same tone variation P.E.I. Consider researching the details, such as how to install subway tile backsplash corners or how to tile a shower niche with subway tile. I just ordered the tile, SO excited. I'm just afraid it could stain or turn "dirty" looking over the years, so thought I'd just use gray. Ummmmno, Only your single post. To create the illusion of smaller grout lines, get a tile with a rectified edge. It is advisable to use a 1mm grout line for very small tile sizes such as mosaic, glass and stone mosaics. If needed, select a grout additive. MGQ1MjljZmYxMDMzNTFjOGFlMTI4MjQ5NTI4YjI4MzZhNTdhNjJkYjQxZTA1 I thought I read that on some earlier postings here. 1/4 tile spacers are a handy tile installation tool used to help ensure the proper spacing of ceramic tile. ODAwNDQ2ZmQ5NzVmMWQzZWRlMzgzNTdhY2JhNDEyMTk1YmY1OWY3ZGYyZTZi Before installing your tile, we suggest you do a dry layout to determine where your cuts will be needed. If your color scheme permits, contrast your grout colors with the other tile colors in the space. Just like in the original New York subway station, entire walls can show off your subway tile. You can go up by 3/16 inches if you use regular sized tiles that range from 16 by 16 to 12 by 12 inches, depending on the overall look you want. The grout just serves the purpose of binding the tile surface together for sturdiness and for easier cleaning. Oh! received a comment from another Garden Webber that since Heath tiles are handmade then I have to go with a 1/4" grout line. You can get away with smaller grout lines in a smaller space, even with the same tile. An 1/8 grout line is too small. 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. High-moisture areas (such as shower walls) benefit from cement board backers to improve long-term durability. If I use gray - will it be so skinny you won't see much color anyway? Also, if you are not a big fan of grout lines, then only use rectified tiles from a reputable company in your project. For example, if you use 1/8-inch spacers you need to ensure every space has a 1/8-inch spacer in between them. Over 100 years old, subway tile remains a favorite for home and business owners alike. This may cause problems in mathematical aspects of the tiling work. 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. Pressed tile with 1/16 grout spacer. Take note of the sizing difference and the accuracy with reference to squareness. I've been reading a post about grey grout so I will revisit it. Your Tile Inspiration & Education Companion. Thanks so much mmme! We were very disappointed when we saw the work completed. FIND YOUR TILE. Pro tip: Grouts that are a high contrast with your tile color may also more easily show any imperfections in the grout line and may emphasize any tile size variation. Therefore, it is important to take care to use the right amount of mortar when back buttering subway tile. Simply lay one tile vertically and the other perpendicular to it, and then repeat that pattern. Copyright 2017 Why Tile. Type and size of the tile; Grout line size for marble and natural stone tiles; Subway Tile Spacing; Subway Tile with no-spacing; Grout joints for large format (1224) tiles; The simple way to figure grout lines for 1224 tiles; The skill of the person installing the tile; How to Calculate the Right Grout Joint Size (according to the tile . A rectified edge allows for smaller grout lines because the tile has been more precisely cut (unlike our other handmade tiles). NjM1YjMwMmY5OTVmMGU2MmZhNDI5OTIzY2MxMTA5ZGI5OWFlOTNkNTVmNDA1 Grout seals up the space between tiles so that dirt and spills stays on the surface where they can be easily cleaned up. You can make your joints whatever size you'd like; for what it's worth, I used the Daltile subways with lugs about 13 years ago and they have held up just fine; I liked the aesthetics of the thinner joint. The tiles have a lesser chance of scraping out from the corners or creaking when under high pressure. Typical Subway Tile Sizes. I'm this-close to ordering the Ann Sacks Heath ceramic tiles in 2"x8", but received a comment from another Garden Webber that since Heath tiles are handmade then I have to go with a 1/4" grout line. The traditional herringbone pattern is pictured above. Just make sure you have an installer that understands the concept of color modulation.. And any good brands for grout? The most popular grout line sizing for 3" x 6" subway tiles is 1/16 " and 1/8". We had contractor do epoxy for bathroom #1 and Quartzlock 2 urethane for bathroom 2. Plus this is the kitchen forum and you're posting about your bathroom Kelly. It is recommended for certain applications such as for swimming pool areas, steam rooms and spas. Can you paint subway tile? Choosing a colorful grout can also be a fun way to make your white subway tile unique. How do I seal the grout on the subway tiles? if you want a standard look, tile installers recommend grout lines of 1/16 inch for walls and 1/8 inch for floors. Grout is oyster grey.{{!gwi}}. Even selecting 1/8 vs. 3/16 grout line subway tile can make you question which is best. MTg3NTA0OTNlM2FlNzBhZjVkYTY5ZTc1MmE1MzJiNDc5NjczMTg0YzkzNTNj In0= 3/8" grout space is the industry standard for Glazed Thin Brick. Steve Green Updated July 7, 2022. What material is subway tile? Without grout, your tiles could buckle and come loose. After my experience with the Custom Building Products grout for my floors, I'm worried about using it again. What is the advantage of Instant Pot over pressure cooker? 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. Having grout lines that are too large can detract from the overall look of a tiled area, particularly if the tiles used are small. Tile trowels come in many shapes and sizes, generally starting out from a 3/16 v-notch up to the 1/2 square notch. You're not supposed to see much color. The most popular grout line sizing for 3" x 6" subway tiles is 1/16" and 1/8". A small 3x6" tile can be set with a 1/16" or 1/8" line, while a mid-size tile like 6x12" or 13x13" would be better with an 1/8" grout line. It is important to note that there are both aesthetic and practical considerations when deciding on the size of grout lines.