Tile Spacers: The Ultimate Quick Guide

Replacing chipped, old, and cracked tiles can revitalize the appearance of a room, but this can be a challenging task, especially if there’s a need for near-perfect spacing. On the other hand, tile spacers make this process easier.

Tile spacers defined

Tile spacers are small, plastic objects with T or cross shapes. They sit between tiles during installation to maintain a consistent width between each tile. They help to prevent tile misalignment during installation, which improves the project’s overall appearance. Some tile spacers even include a self-leveling system to help give a more professional-looking tile installation.

Is multiple grout widths possible?

It is challenging to manually space tiles when making a tile rug or an intricate, mosaic-like design. This scenario is especially true if the intention is to use various grout widths.

However, in the case of tile spacers, it is easy to make various tile patterns with multiple grout widths since tile spacers also have several variations of different sizes. As a result, the finished products become more durable and attractive.

Different sizes to use

While personal preference usually determines the size of tile spacers, the minimum gap between wall tiles is usually 2mm and 3mm for floor tiles. This approach ensures proper grout placement while also allowing for tile movement, which is necessary for stress reduction and long-term tile longevity.

Although there are many sizes to choose from, the rule of thumb is that the shorter the grout joint is, the longer the installation time will be. In this regard, here are the different sizes of tile spacers.

3/16″

This thickness allows for natural size variation and the perfectly imperfect edges of handmade tile.

3/8″

This thickness is the industry standard for glazed thin brick. When working with brick, it’s essential to plan the intended grout space to install ahead of time, as this will affect the required overage to complete the project.

1/8″

A 1/8 “size is for products with rectified, clean-cut edges. Because the tile has fewer irregularities, a rectified edge allows for smaller grout lines. This thickness also allows the pattern to flow smoothly from one tile to the next.

1/16″

A 1/16” is recommended for glass tiles that require a tight fitting.

Getting the right estimate

The number of tile spacers required is equal to four times the number of the needed tiles. However, there should be extra pieces if some are damaged or lost.

How to use

• To begin, consider the size of the tile spacer relative to the overall design of the space.
• Second, locate the center of the room and draw a line with chalk or a laser for more precise marking. This approach ensures that the tiles are correctly centered.
• Next, start at a preferred point (ideally the center), place a spacer on each corner, flush with the first tile, and repeat. Instead of a tile, place a T-shaped spacer at the end of a wall. If no T-shaped spacer is available, break one of the plus tile spacer legs.
• After laying the tiles, use needle/snipe nose pliers or fingers to remove the tile spacers.
• Let the installed tiles dry for some time. The manufacturer’s packaging usually determines the drying time.
• After the tiles have dried, begin grouting. Ensure that all tiles are waterproof and well-bonded to last as long as possible.

Curing time

To successfully install tiles with tile spacers, leave them in place while the adhesive dries and remove them before they have fully adhered. It usually takes between 20 and 30 minutes, but double-check the manufacturer’s instructions on the adhesive packaging and make a note to remove the spacers before the tiles completely adhere.

Are tile spacers necessary when tiling?

While installing tiles without tile spacers is possible, using them will lead to better results. T tiles installed without spacers are more susceptible to breakage and popping. Tiles can expand and contract due to their thermal properties, though this is not visible to the naked eye. Using tile spacers ensures enough room for this natural process to occur without causing any damage to the tiles.

Without spacers, there is a massive possibility for uneven results. Even minor expansions without a tile spacer to brace the tiles together can cause everything to fall apart. They are also reasonably priced, so it’s one of those cases where being safe is preferable to being sorry.

Is overlaying grout over tile spacers advisable?

The short answer is no – putting grouting over tile spaces is not advisable since doing so will result in a poor finish, especially with floor tiles. Since tile spacers do not protrude above the tiles, it may be tempting to grout over them simply, but note that these neglected tile spaces can compromise the structural integrity of the grout joint over time. Cross-shaped cracks may appear over the buried spacers as the grout deteriorates, which is not a good look.

Removing stuck tile spacers

In cases when needle-nosed pliers won’t work and removing stuck tile spacers is a struggle, a hammer, and a small flathead screwdriver are the best solutions. Tap the screwdriver head very gently under the end of one of the spacers, using as little force as possible. If it doesn’t come out, try the method on the opposite side. Work around each end of the spacer, and the stuck tile spacer will eventually come out.

Are tile spacers reusable?

People often throw away these plastic guides because they are cheap and only serve one purpose, but they can be used again if they are taken off quickly, cleaned well, and put away. After completing a tiling project, rinse and dry them to remove any excess adhesive. The spacers can be stored safely in a workshop bag, toolbox, compartment, or drawer.

Tile Spacers Help With Consistency

Remember that accurate and exact distance between tiles is essential for designing a contemporary home. Thankfully, tile spacers are here to make any tile installation project more efficient and professional.

Stories   Portfolio   Careers   About   Contact