What is the smallest grout line for porcelain tile?

Smallest size grout lines should not be less than 1/16″. This is an acceptable space that can be properly grouted. When the space between tiles is so little like 1/32″ which is often referred to as “credit card lines” or “penny lines”, it's not possible to fill that space all the way through the bottom of the tile.

What is the thinnest grout line for tile?

First, the smallest grout lines, less than 1/8 inch, are ideal for rectified tiles. Rectified tiles are perfectly uniform, with precisely defined edges, requiring the least amount of grout. All other cuts of tile, from tumbled to chiseled to punched, contain slight variations in shape and size.

Are smaller grout lines better?

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. This is why your tile installer may suggest a larger grout line for a straighter, more professional looking installation.

How much space do you need between porcelain tiles?

Porcelain has a very close dimensional tolerance and very clean cut edges. This allows you to achieve a very high quality “architectural” finish. Therefore, only a minimal 2mm grout line/gap is required.

Can you lay porcelain tile without grout?

Well, the short answer would be a simple no – you should not attempt to install tile without grout.

Grout lines explained, width selection . How to decide what your tile spacing should be.

Can I use 2mm spacers for floor tiles?

It is not recommended to go below 2mm for wall tiles and 3mm for floor tiles due to the requirement of stress relief.

How wide should grout lines be?

TCNA recommends a minimum 1/8" grout joint for rectified tile and minimum 3/16" grout joint for calibrated tile. They also suggest adding to this width the amount of edge warping on the longest edge. For example, if the edge warping of a rectified tile is 1/32", the minimum grout joint is 1/8" + 1/32" = 5/32".

What is the minimum gap between floor tiles?

Laying tiles with small gaps also prevents problems in case of mechanical damage to one of them. If the tiles were indeed laid out without joints, it would not have been possible to safely remove one of them. 1.5 to 2-millimetre gaps are enough for safely replacing a tile without damaging the other ones.

Which tile spacer size should I use?

The general rule is to use tile spacers of 2 - 3mm for a ceramic wall tile installation and tile spacers of 5mm for a ceramic floor tile installation, but there are numerous factors that can influence the size of the tile spacers you use. Porcelain, granite and marble tiles are generally installed with a 3mm spacer.

What is the standard gap between tiles?

Common practice is 2-3mm for wall tiles and 3-5mm for floor tiles.

How do you lay tile with small grout lines?

What is the smallest grout line for backsplash?

Grout, including sealed grout, tends to wear more quickly than tile and become more porous and prone to staining. Because of this, minimizing the width of grout lines is advisable, keeping it down to around 1/16 inch. If you're using unsanded grout, which is less resistant to cracking, keep the width under 1/8 inch.

What happens if grout lines are too thin?

Grout lines that are too thin will also affect tile expansion and contraction. With there not being much leeway for the tiles to move, they can end up cracking or chipping under the pressure as they push up against each other, or buckling and falling off your shower wall.

What size spacers do I need?

The size spacer you need will be equal to the thickness of the washers used. If a spacer greater than 5mm is needed, you may need to also purchase extended lug studs or purchase wheel spacers with studs.

Can you use 1mm tile spacers?

Tile spacers are small, plastic objects that are usually built in either “T” or a cross shape. They come in quite a few sizes, ranging from 1mm to 10mm. They are used to maintain a consistent space or “gap” between your tiles when installing them on the adhesive.

Are grout lines necessary?

Grout is a necessary and integral part of many tile jobs for several reasons: It keeps moisture out of the substrate, helps keep tile lines straight and prevents tiles from rubbing against one another and cracking.

What size tile spacers for floor tiles?

Regardless of the type or style of tile (porcelain, ceramic or stone) a minimum of 3mm tile spacers should be used for floor tiles. Depending on the tile, the spacer required can go as high as 10mm. Most commonly a 5mm spacer is used, especially if you're using indoor to outdoor tiles.

What is the smallest grout line for shower tile?

For instance, tiles up to 8-by-8 inches square — small-format tile — require grout lines that are 1/32 inch up to 1/8 inch. Regular-format tiles (up to 16-by-16 inches square) call for grout lines 1/8 inch wide for floors. Large-format tiles, 18-by-18 inches wide, require a smaller grout line (1/32 inch).

How big should grout lines be in shower?

Grout Joint Width for Corner Tile

Shower tiles should have a 1/8″ joint between their edge and backer boards or adjacent tiles. For example, if tile is being set on the main shower wall, then leave a 1/8″ expansion joint between the tile edge and adjacent backer board.

Are tile spacers necessary?

Tiling without spacers is not only extremely difficult but also time-consuming. You need to stop constantly and adjust the tiles so that you get an even layout. With a tile spacer, on the other hand, you will spend less time agonizing over the width and accuracy of your lines.