Does 3×6 subway tile need spacers?

Most subway tile has grooves on the sides so you don’t need to use spacers at all because it’s an automatic 1/16″ grout line. I completely forgot about that and used 1/8″ spacers. This meant that we ended up with pretty wide grout lines. Which ended up being fine for the room, but it’s just something to keep in mind.

How much space do you need between 3×6 tiles?

3 x 6 inch subway tiles typically have grout joints of 1/16 inch, but 1/8 inch grout joints are also common.

What size spacers should be used for backsplash tiles?

1/16″
We chose to use 1/16″ spacers in between tiles and turned these 1/16″ spacers on their side to create a 1/8″ spacer between the countertop and the backsplash tile. We opted to skip grouting that 1/8″ space and instead, caulk that line between the countertop and the tile.

How far apart should tiles be spaced?

For smaller tiles is advisable to use small spacers. As the tiles increase in size a larger gap becomes acceptable. The large format 18 inch tiles should have ¼ inch space in between.

What size trowel do you use for 3×6 subway tile?

For example, let’s say that you have a ¼ inch x ¼ inch square notched trowel that works great for Home Depot Restore 3×6 subway tile. Additionally, you’ve found this trowel to place the perfect amount of mortar for these tiles.

Does subway tile have spacers?

Subway tile made by Dal-Tile or American Olean, for example, has a small built-in spacer that allows you to stack the tile without additional spacers. Other tile manufacturers like Pratt and Larson or Heritage Tile do not have the built-in spacer.

What is the smallest grout line for 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.

Should I back butter subway tile?

Back-Buttering shouldn’t be needed. But, the best determination is to set a tile & then pry it off. You should have a nice even smush of Thin-set that covers the whole back of the tile. If you don’t get full coverage, then you can try it again with a bigger notch trowel…on a fresh clean tile.

How much space do you need for thinset?

In most installations, a layer of thinset 3/16 to 1/8-inch thick is sufficient. Too much thinset creates a mess and inhibits proper bonding between the tile and the substrate. For most tiles, apply a layer of thinset 3/16–1/8-inch thick. Do not attempt to use more thinset in order to level a surface.