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4 Those with smaller 4X4 or 6X6 TILE Kitchen Countertops..Grout?

14 years ago

I'd like to hear from those who have went with the smaller tile for their kitchen countertops. I know there is a trend (especially with using those Large tiles) to use very thin grout lines.

However I am not using large tiles, I am going with 4X4's. My concern with going with tiny 1/16 inch lines is that you'd have to go with the unsanded grout which I have read is not as strong and can lead to unstable grout lines which might not last for as many years.

The advantage is the smaller lines would be easier to keep clean.

Then again .. using the 4X4's at all sorta rules out not dealing with too many grout lines.

I am thinking of going with 1/8 inch lines. they look okay laid out that way although I know they will appear larger once they are filled in.

What size grout lines did you choose to go with your 4X4 or 6X6 tiles?

Are you happy with what you chose?

Should I not even worry about sanded versus unsanded strength in my decision to go with 1/16 or 1/8.

It's time to decide, the guy is laying it soon possibly tomorrow.

thanks for any help

btw I did go with the 1/16 line in the bathroom shower w the unsanded grout.

That was before I read on the internet that smaller lines with unsanded grout aren't as strong.

LOL

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Comments (2)

neetsiepie
14 years ago
I actually ended up going with 1/4" which I regret because it's a lot of grout look, very rustic. I wish I'd gone smaller, but that would have meant A LOT more cuts in the tile. I think the 1/8 would have been perfect.

I used unsanded because I used glossy ceramic tile. I've not had any trouble with it, and it's been about a year. My only problem was two edge pieces came off, but it was because they'd not been stuck to the mastic appropriately.

I used black tile with black grout. I DO like the look.
annzgw
14 years ago
Do the unsanded and don't worry about it. I've used it on floors and counters and never had a problem.
Some tiles have spacers built-in so you may not have a choice in grout width. If possible, go as small as you can.
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