Painting your subway tile may inhibit its ability to resist stains and scratches, and the design may not hold up over time. The middle of each tile should line up with the edges of the two tiles above and beneath it. Usually, the wet grout is darker than the dry one. Application Location . Zjc5ZjJmYTc3ZGVkMjJmZWRjZGEyMTg2ZWI0MWRhYjQxNmJmNTE2ZDQwNTcz This is especially the case for walls but will depend on the look you are aiming for with your tiling. Notify me of follow-up comments by email. Generally, if youre working with wider grout lines (1/4 or larger) youll want to use larger spacers (4mm, 5mm, or 6mm). You can use 1/16 spacers for organizing grout joints. Cynthia Faber Smith serves as chief editor and art director for WhyTile.com. Contractors are not designers. 4 in: Product Thickness (mm) 5 mm: Product Width (in.) MDg4NTMwMTBjZmVlYTM0MzU5NTAzNTIxOGFjYmY1ZWI5MTY1MzllNDkxMzIy I'm using the plain white American Olean Tile from Lowes that's only 22 cents/piece. Enjoy a faster checkout, track orders, and review past orders. It can be used in sealing joints and stuffing voids. 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. 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. The photo below is our new shower. OTkxMTIwMDNlZTllZTljM2FhYWEwMjRmMjZjMjhlMjIzOTk2NjM3OGZlZWQ2 There is an appearance of fine finishing with grout lines, which is quite blunt without these lines. Looks 1/8" to me. We often get asked: Is subway tile a fad? This was my first DIY tile job ever, so I'm glad it doesn't look too horribly clunky. Tile shown: Diamond Escher in Adriatic Sea // Design: The Inside Story Design // Photos: Jennifer Siu-Rivera. NjM1YjMwMmY5OTVmMGU2MmZhNDI5OTIzY2MxMTA5ZGI5OWFlOTNkNTVmNDA1 MTAzOTVkNDdkMDVlNGNiOWY0YmFkYzg5ODE0MWFjMzFlMDAzYTc3OGNkYmRk For example, if you have small tiles and you want narrow grout lines, you should get 1/16 tile spacers. 1/8 Vs. 1/16 Grout Line Best Size for Subway Tile Spacers. Muddling this up may leave a lot to be desired. Choosing a colorful grout can also be a fun way to make your white subway tile unique. And any good brands for grout? But now I'm confused. Our tiles looked very different before the white grout was added. To help you out, we've put together a list of considerations and an overview of options to help you choose the right grout size for your project. Large-format tiles, 18-by-18 inches wide, require a smaller grout line (1/32 inch). Hi, everyone! [Related: Bathroom and Kitchen Backsplash Tile: Your Comprehensive Guide]. After my experience with the Custom Building Products grout for my floors, I'm worried about using it again. The actual grout joint size should be equal to three times the variance in actual tile facial dimensions. YzM2ZjliODIzZGZiNzhlYzdlMGZmNDE1ZmQzZGZlNGQ5NjRmMTNiMWRjZmY1 Made of ceramic tile, subway tile is known for both its durability and its timeless style. Sealing the grout will actually strengthen it and help to prevent cracks and signs of excess wear and tear. Grandaire Review Everything You Need to Know [2021], Clark + Kensington (Paint & Primer in One) Review 2021, Miele Dishwasher Water Inlet Valve Replacement (WPS). Their whole purpose is to be of the same size and shape to prevent any measuring error. Maybe zombie threads do appeal to some. The rounded edges of the pressed tile can extend the reach of the grout, like water lapping at a riverbank. Love it, gives just the effect I wanted for my bungalow bath. Where you are installing your tile should also be considered when choosing your grout size. A subway tile has a traditional and standard size of 3 x 6 inches. 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. A rectified edge allows for smaller grout lines because the tile has been more precisely cut (unlike our other handmade tiles). Check out the Laticrete perma color-bright white #44. Similarly, if you want the look of a floating tile, such as a tile backsplash, then a thinner grout line should be used. FIND YOUR TILE. Other common sizes include 2 x 4 inches, 4 x 8 inches, 6 x 12 inches. Maybe no bigger than 1/8" spacing. ZTQzNzNhNDU0YzJhZmUyOTZmMTUzZmM5NjQ5YmI2NTk1YTQxMjkwMGFiOTVk There are pros and cons of both the and 1/16 grout joints, and they are discussed below. This is white subway with 1/16th grout lines, silver grout, in my bathroom: Thank you for posting this photo! Beveled subway tile creates a three-dimensional tile design with sloped edges and a protruding surface. Pros of having grout lines between your tiles: The grout lines firmly grasp the tiles from the sides as well and not just from beneath. Thanks for the tips everyone!! GROUT SPACING Thinner grout spacing for subway tile creates a more subtle effect, and wider grout lines, a more dramatic one. Because of their easy installation and durable nature, tiles have become an eminent part of most of the house-building projects. Nonetheless, people prefer thin grout lines anyway as they ensure that more area gets covered with tile as they are the major showpiece. What if you called Ann Sacks or Heath Ceramics and asked them what size grout line they recommend? Also, making thin and tight grout joints is heftier work, as it requires more precision and accuracy for eliminating technical errors. 3/8" grout space is the industry standard for Glazed Thin Brick. Shop thousands of amazing quality tiles at great value prices with huge stock levels in store & online. YzllMGFiMmY2YzBjZDQ0NjI2MmY4OTk4OWFlMWIxYjhlMTZhMjEyMzljYmIw Can anyone show me photos (either of your kitchen or others) of subway tile with a 1/4" grout line? 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. Why Tile Partner Resources. When choosing tile spacers, its important to consider the size of the tile youre working with and the look you want to achieve. Yes, it is recommended to back butter subway tile before applying it to a surface. MzY0ODI5ZmVjYWE2NGI0NGNjZTllYmVmOGU0NGRiNDI2MmMzNmQwM2ZmNDg0 I want a grout line no bigger than a credit card! Sorry, but a 1/32 grout line will lead to failure. Adjust grout consistency by adding more powder or water. Not just on the grounds of technicality but setting the right dimensions of the grout line is also necessary for a neat finish of the tile job. If you have tight grout lines, you would be using unsanded grout, which looks whiter than the sanded version of the same color. 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. Your email address will not be published. I found this zombie thread very helpful. The most popular grout line sizing for 3" x 6" subway tiles is 1/16 " and 1/8". But I'm sure you'll be getting lots more input from others with more exerience. This may cause problems in mathematical aspects of the tiling work. I'm interested in what everyone has to say about this also. How do I seal the grout on the subway tiles? For smaller grout lines (3/16 or smaller) youll want to use smaller spacers (1mm, 2mm, or 3mm). So, if you are thinking of laying tiles in your new house or casing up the old ones, a quick read through the page might save you much regret. Looks like bathrooms have a ticket to a no-brainer, Artistic installations, back-painted glass and pivoting windows prove there are backsplash possibilities beyond the platform, You'll find world-class museums, restaurants, hotels and shops in Georgia's woodsy, welcoming and charming capital, Get your grout right to keep your tile beautiful and for an installation that will last, Landscape Architects & Landscape Designers, Outdoor Lighting & Audio/Visual Specialists, North Versailles Kitchen & Bathroom Designers, Glen Carbon Kitchen & Bathroom Remodelers, Glenn Heights Kitchen & Bathroom Remodelers, Wilmington Island Kitchen & Bathroom Remodelers, Living Small: City & Small Space Consulting, 9 Ways GroutYes, GroutCan Add to Your Design, Convert Your Tub Space Into a Shower the Tiling and Grouting Phase. NTAwMTcxODI4Mzk1YTEwM2E4NzQzNGI1MjExZDc3YWE3ZmFmZjYyZmI4NDBj With tiles set outside, such as on a patio or porch, youll need wider grout lines to accommodate the more dramatic temperature changes your tile can experience. YWFhZjJkNmM3MDI5MGYwMDkyODczMDBhNjVhNTc5MDY2M2IwODFmMDQ5Njcx Rectified tile with 1/16 grout spacer. This line formed by grout around the tiles is what we call a grout line or grout joints. Grout serves two major functions: Many people who like tile dont like large, deep grout lines. Generally, the color of the grout line is like the color of the tile as contrasting colors may create an illusion of smaller space. However, a 1/8 inch size spacer will create a thinner grout line giving a seamless look to your project. It's not necessary to seal it, but you can (with a solvent-based sealer). The tiles have a lesser chance of scraping out from the corners or creaking when under high pressure. Large format tile - 18 X 18 inches and larger. 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. Kelly - what is your grout line in the shower? (3X6 subway) I liked the way someone here had used light gray, but I love the look of white grout also. it would be way to big and clunky looking. Here are some creative ways to install subway tile. All Rights Reserved. What Size Trowel To Use For 3"x6" Subway Tile? - Upgraded Home 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. After my experience with the Custom Building Products grout for my floors, I'm worried about using it again. Often, this means altering the layout pattern itself. Subway tile lovers - What size is your grout line? Photos please - Houzz I just ordered the tile, SO excited. We recommend a 3/16" grout size for our Ceramic Tile. Turn your subway tile on its side to create a vertically offset or stacked pattern. Only go this route if youre tiling a larger area, such as an entire shower. Do Subway Tiles Need to Be Spaced? - Fine Homebuilding Looks fabulous! Overall, smaller grout lines generally tend to be a better option, depending on the specific application. OGUyYjhiMTU4ZDA3NGZmMzAzY2JiOTZhNDZlNTdkYjk3Yjk2MDcyZDlkYjVj 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. Different Grout Sizes. On the other hand, if youd like a more classic look with more visible grout lines, then you may decide to go with wider grout lines. White subway tile with gray grout is a beautiful combination! Heading into darker territory, subway tile offers a graphic new look for kitchens, bathrooms and more, Choose From a Palette of Grout Colors for a Warm, Unified Look, Add an exotic touch with Moroccan tiles in everything from intricate patterns and rich colors to subtle, luminous neutrals, Step 3 in swapping your tub for a sleek new shower: Pick the right tile and test it out, then choose your grout color and type, Grout is grout, right? Because 36 inch subway tiles are small, it would be better to use smaller spacers like 1/16 inch or 1/8 inch. It gives an airtight sealing to the surface and does not let any litter or sand particles enter the space between the tiles. ACK!!! Check it on Amazon. Subway tile can be cleaned just like any other ceramic tile: merely by wiping with water. Note that in case you are considering not going with the grout lines, then use rectified tiles. The subway grout was supposed to be white and the grout lines are way too thick. 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. When using thinner grout lines, unsanded grout is recommended and works better with more delicate tile surfaces like ceramic and glass. Your access to this site was blocked by Wordfence, a security provider, who protects sites from malicious activity. The traditional white subway tile design looks great in just about any kitchen or bathroom, with options to customize your subway tile backsplash design to your space. It is also important to note that it is possible to over butter the tile. Before the technological advancements of modern tile making, porcelain and ceramic tiles were highly irregular (some cheaply-made modern tiles still are). 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. 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. Grout absorbs movement from the natural contraction and expansion your tiles will experience from temperature and humidity changes. Stagger your subway tiles by 25% and youll get the look of stairs climbing up and down your wall. Ummmmno, Only your single post. While we definitely have recommendations for grout size for each Fireclay product line, there really is no set width requirement. The grout should also never be wider than the thickness of the tile to ensure stability of the installation. Edlakin - Phew! Privacy Policy White subway tile with colored grout draws attention to the tile layout pattern, whereas subway tile with matching grout creates a more seamless design. width x 6 in. The rectified tiles are made either from ceramic or porcelain. A 1/16" grout line is most commonly used for 3" x 6" subway tile, particularly when covering walls. Furthermore, grout lines that are too big can cause several problems, such as increasing the chances of dirt and debris accumulating in the grout and making the tiling more susceptible to cracking and crumbling. They come in a plethora of textures and styles to choose from. Steve Green Updated July 7, 2022. Insist on the look you want. For example, if youd like a more seamless look, you may opt for a thinner grout line. Ceramic tile is flame-resistant, so you neednt worry about heat or flame harming your tile. Some homeowners prefer to go a little wider and longer and there are many options if you do decide you want large subway tile such as 4 . Uneven edges can create an old-world look, but this also means the tiles cannot be right next to each other. Shop online and get free delivery on orders over 300. Wall & Floor Grout - Tile Choice - Tile Choice 3 x 6 inch subway tiles typically have grout joints of 1/16 inch, but 1/8 inch grout joints are also common. Enjoy a faster checkout, track orders and review past orders. Here is a link that might be useful: {{!gwi}}. However, the actual finished grout spacing will vary from 1/8" to 1/4" if 3/16" spacers are used. Remember, smaller subway (3x6 inches) tiles can go along with 1/8-inch size spacers. Filter by. Oh! Do these look like 1/8 grout spacing or 1/16? If you cant choose just one color for your subway tile, multicolor subway tile is for you. Lastly, tiles can move more freely when the grout lines are too small, as they have less support between adjacent tiles. How big is the tile? @abbycat9990 - what color grout did you go with? Alternatively, you can use painters tape to cover the beveled edges of the tile, which keeps the grout from getting stuck in any. For smaller subway tiles (1x2 or 2x4), some may prefer a slightly wider grout line of 1/16. Light-colored grout lines get dirty and stained quickly and must be wiped at constant time intervals. This is what our research found. It works with many architectural styles. Additionally, you should use spacers to keep all exterior walls and corners properly aligned and precise. Generated by Wordfence at Mon, 1 May 2023 13:43:09 GMT.Your computer's time: document.write(new Date().toUTCString());. Sometimes its printed on the box, sometimes you have to ask you tile dealer what the recommended grout size is. Now I've seen and know I love it. If you are one of the people who get confused between these two very commonly used thicknesses of the grout lines, then you should again consider the facts mentioned above for determining your perfect size. For any handmade tile, we always recommend larger grout joints to account for these irregularities (the tile can fluctuate by ~1/8" in size and thickness, in any direction). ZTgxZjcyNWM2OWRlODhhMTA5YTY5ZTgwMjcxZThmNmY3NjNjMWZiZjFjYTI5 Brick Shown: Glazed Thin Brick in a custom color for Barebottle Brewing, Brick Shown: Front Range // Design: Jon De La Cruz // Photo: House Beautiful. Available sizes are 2x8, 3x6, 3x12, and 4x16. This is why your tile installer may suggest a larger grout line for a straighter, more professional-looking installation. Contractors will do whatever is easiest or "standard"- thicker grout lines. Generally, for larger subway tiles (3x6 or 4x8), grout lines that are 1/8 wide are recommended to avoid over-emphasizing the lines of the tile. The traditional herringbone pattern is pictured above. You don't want the grout lines to become the focus. After its inception in 1904, subway tile went on to appear in other transportation hubs around the world. How many cubic feet in one quickcrete bag. White subway tile: White vs light Grey Grout. This results in a much tighter grip and a firm hold. MTg3NTA0OTNlM2FlNzBhZjVkYTY5ZTc1MmE1MzJiNDc5NjczMTg0YzkzNTNj Lastly, youll want to make sure the tile spacers you choose are high-quality and compatible with the tile youre working with. In a thinner and elongated size, this backsplash tile starts to look like the subway tile running bond tile pattern (a 50% offset pattern). 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. Wipe the tile edges with a damp sponge and seal the grout lines. I love how it highlights thepattern. It is an aesthetic decision whether to go slightly larger or tighter. Thanks for updating with your more recent fresh corpses! Who said subway tile has to be white? You can remedy this by using caulk, Copyright 2023 HouseholdFAQ | Powered by Astra WordPress Theme. 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. 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. OWVmNDU4NTc2MDVhNDNmZjlhYTFiNDZiYjYwYWQ1MGJmNGU3ZGEwMmM3ZDdk The Tile Council of North America and accompanying tile organizations recommend an average grout joint width of 3/16 inch for every 1/16 inch variation in the size of the tiles. 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. YjMxZjdkY2M3MjcwMmRkN2QzZDYwZmQxOTA3ZjgwZGQ0MjhjODhhYTk3ZWJl Once grouted, the line between the pressed tiles will look larger than the same sized line between the rectified tiles. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Can you install subway tile over drywall? However, 1/8 inch grout joint is also typical. A tight, 1/8" grout space will allow the pattern to flow nicely from one tile to the next. Only slightly different than the traditional 50% offset, the one-third offset is another common pattern for subway tile. For reference, my cabinets are a fairly white white as are my subway tiles. Keep in mind that grout serves a purpose-- to fill in voids, make things straight, and also relieve stress. The wider spacing will help to accommodate placement of tile and maintaining straight lines. MGMzODM0YzA2YjM2ZWFkZWI5NjJhMTU0YzBkOTM2ZWZmMjI2YjYzMDY1OWVk MGZiMDdlNTcwOTFjNjk0ZGIwM2ZiZmFmYTVmODM2NzE0YmYzYTg1MTQxNGQ0 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. For additional cleaning tips, read our Ultimate Guide to Cleaning Ceramic Tile. 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. What is the smallest grout line for backsplash? Our favorite source for subway tile is Heath Ceramics. 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. On the other hand, using small format tiles typically requires a larger grout line (1/4 inch) in order to make the grout lines visible and accentuate the individual tile pieces. Glass has clean edges allowing for a tight install. But then, if you are using larger tiles (6x12 inches), a 1/4-inch size spacer would be a good option, too. It can be used in sealing joints and stuffing voids. They tend to have a slightly rounded pillow edge. The grout fills the gap between the tiles very effectively. Choosing the right grout line size is always important for your subway tile project. Too small of grout lines can lead to inadequate contraction of the grout, which will make it more prone to cracking and damage. (If there's any variation at ALL, you don't want to use 1/16") The MOST you should need is 1/4". If I use gray - will it be so skinny you won't see much color anyway? We recommend a 1/16" grout size for our Glass Tile. Calacatta Gold 3" x 6" Beveled Marble Tile | Tile Club We recently used TEX XT grout in Bright White--#910 in our bathrooms, and it looks very white. You may have even fallen in love with a specific subway tile design yourself; and if not, you certainly have the tools and know-how to design the perfect subway tile for your home. Copyright 2017 Why Tile. I saw a few tile and grout boards at the tile store. We commonly see subway tile with white, gray, or black grout, but choosing colorful grout is a great way to make your subway tile one of a kind. [Related: Tile Trend Ideas: Textured Tile]. The width of this line makes a very noticeable difference in the final appearance. YzA1NjRiMWI3ZTNhNjU2MDllNzNjNWYxMjg0MzBmMzZmYTBkYjA3YWViMDRl Approximate Tile Size: 4x16: Product Length (in.) MSI Quartz Quality - Everything You Need to Know. If you do not have these tools or the skills to use them safely, we recommend hiring a qualified tile installer. These plastic spacers clip into the tiles to create a small gap between the tiles, allowing for effective grouting and adhesion. How to lay subway tile: For the traditional subway tile design, lay tiles with a 50% offset. 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. o.k.hubby is in the kitchen right now getting ready to set tile.it's a tumbled 3 x 6 travertine, and we are going with 1/16 grout lines, are you telling me that's a mistake??? 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. Typically they are 3/8" thick. OTc1MzYzMDI4NGRmNTI2ZDdhNGE3MTZlZTFkZDI1OTIyZGRlYzljOWFmN2Nh Is there a recommended size for the width of the grout line for 3x6 white subway tile with white grout? You can get away with smaller grout lines in a smaller space, even with the same 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. In addition, it is the best option for areas where precision installation is required such as for backsplashes and kitchen walls. 1/16 is the thinner and more preferred grout line as it gives a more tile and less crap kind of look. The grout just serves the purpose of binding the tile surface together for sturdiness and for easier cleaning. YjBlMzBhOTgxYjcxYjVmNGE5OTRkMmQwZDEyZWMwMmNkMzc2MzM0NzIxMThi If grout lines are too big, the tiles can appear to be spaced far apart from each other, making the entire surface look less cohesive and more unappealing. Standard Subway Tile Sizes (and Drawings) - Homenish We'll keep you updated with new products, design trends, promotions and any exciting happenings around the studio. Definitely bigger than 1/16", Landscape Architects & Landscape Designers, Outdoor Lighting & Audio/Visual Specialists. Some people may choose to skip the grout lines and layer the tiles without any space between them. Anxiety Over 1/8" Grout Line for Subway Tile - Houzz 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. 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.