Using tile irregularities or imperfections as grout spacing?
My tile contractor is suggesting that the intentional imperfections in my 2"x10" subway tile can be used as the space for the grout lines, when the tiles are pushed completely together, without need for additional 1/16" spacers.
Is this correct? See picture of tiles pushed together...
For comparison, here is the same tile in my previous condo, where a different contractor used 3/16" (I think) spacers...
Comments (12)
PROFilipe Custom Woodwork
5 years ago
PROJAN MOYER
5 years agolast modified: 5 years agoRelated Discussions
Can I place ceramic tile without space between them (no grout)?
Comments (4)Grout is important.When grout does its job  locking tiles tight, keeping out water, and giving floors and walls a finished look  nobody pays much attention. It's only when grout fails, becoming stained, cracked, or falling out altogether, that people take notice. But grout deserves more respect. "Not only does grout fill the voids, it makes the floor, wall, or countertop stronger by bonding the tiles together and preventing the edges of a tile from chipping and cracking. Cicliot...See MoreGrout line size? Self-spacing tile?
Comments (1)Some self-spacing tiles have little nubs on the sides, but others can have bottoms that are slightly larger than the surface. Even though yours have the slightly larger bottoms, they have a rough, hand-made looking egde that will look better with a larger grout joint. Even if tiles are self-spacing by design, that doesn't preclude you from using larger spacing if desired. I'd start with 1/8 and see how that looks. Personally, I'm not fond of the darker grout lines that are shown in your sample picture and would go with something closer in match to the tile. Opinions will differ on that, of course, so you will ultimately have to decide on the look that suits YOU. This post was edited by jellytoast on Tue, Dec 16, 14 at 19:03...See MoreTile and grout line spacing
Comments (1)It would depend on the size of the tile, but with 4x4 or larger, I'd say 1/4". YMMV...See MoreGrout for 12 X 24 matte porcelain floor tile with 1/4 spacing
Comments (2)Stop searching open forums and you tube videos for random opinions. There are way to many variables with individual projects that will not reflect yours. Heat, humidity, ac, tile temperature, proper procedures, amount of dry time, amount of water used in clean up, type of sponge, many more. Do a mock up made with scrap tile or try the product in a closet. Follow manufactures instructions. If you have further questions call Mapei tech line. 800-992-6273 Manufacturer video. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R8SA7d4DLlc Or search the internet and eventually you will find the answer that you want to hear at the risk of making yourself crazy with everyone's opinions:)...See More
PROCreative Tile Eastern CT
5 years ago
Mr. Memes
5 years ago
Joanne Hulse
last yearJoanne Hulse
last year- PRO
Creative Tile Eastern CT
last yearlast modified: last yearIrregular tiles are installed with wedges / shims or nothing. Instead opting for a non-sag mortar. Grids and a good eye are key.
Spacers are a consistent size. Therefore, a consistent sized tile would be required. Useless with actual irregular tiles.
- PRO
Creative Tile Eastern CT
last yearFor those insisting on the use of spacers. Please enlighten us on how that works:)
Tiles from the same box.
Joanne Hulse
last year- PRO
Creative Tile Eastern CT
last yearAppears someone is not familiar with some of the products that the professionals have to work with:) They are handmade Moroccan tiles. Perhaps a side view of the same tiles will help bring things into perspective and possibly a bit of appreciation for the skilled Tile Setters.
On a humorous note. The very high-end Designer stated the customer wanted a smooth finish with minimal lippage. Obviously impossible. This is called blame the contractor in advance for the Designers major error. I made sure to have the GC as a witness to my response:)
Helen