Install Ceramic Tile Without Grout Lines
I try to use the smallest grout lines the tile will allow.
Install ceramic tile without grout lines. They are smooth and uniform edges that let you get the smallest joint possible usually 1 8 or 3 16. The best thing to do is use the smallest grout line your particular tile will allow and get a grout that closely matches the tile. How to lay ceramic tile without grout. But here s the thing.
If you want the job to last then you need to use grout. It keeps moisture out of the substrate helps keep tile lines straight and. Fiberglass mesh tape a 1 4 inch notched trowel a putty knife margin trowel and grout float round out the long list. You ll also need a 25 pound bag of thinset mortar and a 5 pound bag of unsanded grout for the tile joints.
They help keep your tiles in straight lines and prevent damage from the tiles rubbing against one another. The tiles can be installed over concrete hardwood ceramic tile natural stone vinyl and linoleum. For most granite and marble tile i install i use either 1 32 or 1 16 inch grout lines. How to lay tile without grout lines.
Minimal or zero grout lines will also accentuate any lippage between adjacent tiles. Grout is necessary. Very few homeowners like the look of grout. Grout lines however are important for a few reasons.
Rectified tile has very exact edges. There are cases when laying tile without grout will probably leave the job looking a lot better. Grout is a necessary and integral part of many tile jobs for several reasons. It can chip become stained and create a grid effect on an otherwise smooth tile installation.
Because the tiles don t require mortar or grouting there s no drying time. Without these precise edges much more grout is needed to even things out across the floor. The unsanded type of grout is best for the small grout lines that will be less than 1 8 inch. In a zero grout layout or even with a 1 16 grout joint any deviations in tile size will throw your pattern off as you move across the floor.
Grout can become dingy looking quickly making a tile installation look old. Your best bet for minimal grout joints will be by using a rectified tile.