Beautiful tiles need expert installation to really shine. With these tips, you'll be able to avoid some common tile layout mistakes. When you choose the right tiles, they'll become treasured design elements in your home. 

Misaligned Patterns 

Skilled installation is one of the secrets of avoiding tile layout mistakes. For example, if you choose tiles that form a larger pattern, each tile will need the right placement to become one element of the pattern. 

If a mistake is made, the pattern will be misaligned. So, it's important to ensure that each tile looks right with the others, keeping the overall pattern in mind. 

Some tiles have patterns on them. For example, a tile might have a dot motif. In this case, a group of tiles with that pattern isn't designed to make a larger pattern, but that doesn't mean that tile placement isn't important. If a tile is placed upside down or sideways, it will look odd. 

Improper Spacing 

Ideal tile spacing varies based on the tile size and type, and manufacturers provide tile spacing recommendations. Using a tile spacer is important. You just need to choose tile spacers that are sized for your particular job. If you want a 3/8 inch space between each tile, look for tile spacers with those measurements. 

These plastic tools are added between tiles, keeping the spacing consistent. Tile spacing can vary. It might be 1/16 inch or a different size. Make sure each spacer is pushed against the edges of the tile, into its specialized adhesive (thinset), to get a professional result. 

Spacing Guide 

Be sure to read the instructions that come with your tiles, as that's the best way to determine the right spacing for the project. In general, larger tiles need 1/16th spaces, while smaller tiles need 1/16 to 1/8 inch spacing. 

Then, find the tools you need. They are: 

  • Spacers 

  • Grout 

  • Rubber mallet 

  • Grout float 

  • Tile cutter 

  • Bucket 

  • Sponges 

  • A drill that has a mixing paddle 

 

 

Failing To Plan Around Fixtures 

Wayne Tile offers an array of elegant tiles in the finest materials, including glass, ceramic, porcelain, high-end vinyl, porcelain slabs, and natural stone. When you decide on tiles, keep your home's fixture placement in mind. Fixtures need to be placed in a practical way so they're easy to use, and a room still has enough space to move around in easily. 

Examples of fixtures are: 

  • Plumbing 

  • Electrical outlets 

  • Structural elements 

Grout Line 

Grout lines are the gaps between each tile. Grout is added to hold the tiles in place and seal them. How wide or narrow these gaps are is really an aesthetic choice. In general, narrower grout lines are more sophisticated. 

Visual Balance Tips 

If you're planning to install your tiles yourself, do research before you start. It's possible to get amazing results, but there are many things to consider, including the risk of laying tiles unevenly. They should all be flush with one another to create visual balance. 

Instruction manuals and YouTube videos from expert installers will help you to learn, but can only get you so far. Need help with layout planning or installation? Our Wayne Tile experts will deliver online or to a retail location.