installing tile: 1/8" or 14" gap?

Question

when installing tile how do i know what size gap to use? 1/4" or 1/8"? the tile is going to cover my kitchen, hallway, entrance, dining room, living room....basically the entire downstairs. I used 1/4" in my bathroom with travertine... this new tile will be porclein, i think 1/8" might be best ... but wnated to make sure

using 20" tiles.... in very high wear areas such as the kitchen.

Answer 1

You should consider the size of tile used.
The smaller the tile, smaller the gap, and vice versa.

Answer 2

It would depend on the decor that you're going for. Traditionally the larger the tile the larger the grout gap. However, some themes like saltillo tiles use up to 1/2" grout for a particular aesthetic. Go to a tile showroom and see what you like most for your personal project.

Just remember that the larger the grout lines, the more grout will be required to fill them in. Ask yourself if this is a worth-while effort also. Additionally: since you've already installed with 1/4" you might want to continue for continuity's sake.

Answer 3

For 12" tiles and larger, I would use 1/4" gap and sanded grout. Smaller tiles, 1/8" gap and unsanded grout.