Installing a tile backsplash in your kitchen can add visual appeal while also protecting your walls from moisture and stains. When installing tile, it’s important to use spacers between each tile to allow for consistent grout lines. But what size tile spacers should you use for a kitchen backsplash? Here is a detailed guide on selecting the right tile spacer size for your kitchen backsplash project.
What are Tile Spacers?
Tile spacers are small plastic crosses or wedges that are temporarily placed between tiles during installation. The spacers serve several important purposes:
- They create a uniform space between each tile for the grout lines. This provides a neat, consistent appearance once the grout is applied.
- They prevent tiles from shifting during installation. Keeping the tiles evenly spaced prevents uneven grout lines or tiles bumping up against each other.
- They allow room for any tile expansion that may occur. Natural forces like changes in temperature can cause installed tiles to expand or contract slightly. The spacers account for this.
- They make it easier to keep the tiles aligned, especially when installing a grid pattern. The spacers help keep everything squared and even.
What Size Tile Spacers for Backsplash?
For a kitchen backsplash, 1/16 inch or 1/8 inch spacers are the most common and recommended. Here are some guidelines for choosing:
Use 1/16 inch spacers for:
- Small tile sizes like mosaics, 3×6 subway tile, or anything under 4 inches.
- Handmade or natural tile materials like ceramic, porcelain, or travertine that have slight size variations.
- Intricate patterns like herringbone layouts that require precision.
The narrow 1/16 inch spacer allows for minor tile size inconsistencies in these situations while still keeping grout lines thin and uniform.
Use 1/8 inch spacers for:
- Tile sizes 4 inches or larger.
- Stone tiles like marble or granite that are squarely cut and calibrated.
- Simple grid layouts with minimal direction changes.
The slightly wider 1/8 inch grout lines are better suited for large tile sizes, stone materials, and straightforward grid patterns.
When to Use Larger Tile Spacers:
- For very heavy tile materials like natural stone, 3/16 inch or 1/4 inch spacers may be better to account for weight and absorption. Follow your tile supplier’s recommendations.
- If the look of wider grout lines is desired for design reasons, larger spacers up to 3/8 inch can be used.
- Outdoor applications may require larger spacers to account for greater expansion and sealant needs.
In most standard kitchen backsplash situations, however, 1/16 or 1/8 inch spacers will provide the right balance of grout line appearance versus tile fit.
Tips for Using Tile Spacers
Follow these tips for getting the most out of your tile spacers:
- Only use high quality plastic spacers. Don’t use makeshift materials like matchsticks or Lego blocks which can interfere with adhesion or get stuck in the thinset.
- Place 4 spacers around each tile – one on each side. This keeps the tile evenly spaced and aligned in all directions.
- For mosaic sheets, only put spacers between each sheet – not between each individual tile.
- Push tiles firmly against the spacers when setting them to keep everything squared up.
- Use spacer clips or crossover spacers at grout line intersections to keep alignment consistent.
- Make sure spacers are vertically straight and not tilting. Use a spacer cap tool to correctly align them.
- Don’t allow any spacer corners or edges to protrude into the grout line area.
- Leave spacers in for 24-48 hours after setting the tiles to allow the thinset to fully cure before removing them.
Grout Line Considerations
In addition to the spacer size, also consider the following about grout lines for your backsplash:
- Narrow grout lines (1/16 inch) create a smoother, seamless look. Wide grout lines (1/8 inch or larger) have a more bold, defined style. Choose what matches your design aesthetics.
- Lighter grout colors like white or off-white are best for small grout lines. Darker grout colors work well with wider grout lines.
- Minimize directional changes in grout lines (like from vertical to horizontal) for easier cleaning between tiles.
- Match the grout color to the tile color for a monochromatic look. Contrast the grout and tile colors for emphasis.
- Use a grout release agent on porcelain, glass, or polished stone tiles if concerned about grout sticking.
Paying attention to the grout lines, in addition to your spacer choice, will give your backsplash a clean finished look.
Common Questions about Tile Spacers
Should spacers be kept in or taken out before grouting?
It’s best to leave the spacers in for 24-48 hours after setting the tiles to allow the thinset mortar to fully cure. This prevents any tile movement or shrinking. Only after the thinset has hardened should the spacers be removed for grouting.
Do tile spacers matter for grout size?
Yes, the size of your spacers directly determines the width of your grout lines. The general rule is to choose a spacer 1/16 inch smaller than your desired grout line width. So for 1/8 inch grout lines, use 1/16 inch spacers.
Can I use homemade spacers instead of plastic ones?
It’s not recommended. Items like matchsticks or Legos are not the proper shape or material. Plastic spacers are inexpensive and specifically designed not to interfere with bonding or get stuck in the thinset mortar.
Should spacers be clipped together at corners?
Using spacer clips or crossover spacers at any grout line intersections is highly recommended. This keeps the grout lines properly aligned and the corner spacing consistent.
How many spacers are needed per tile?
Each tile should have 4 spacers – one on each side. This keeps the tiles evenly spaced and aligned in all directions. Any fewer than 4 spacers can allow tiles to shift.
What’s the maximum spacer size recommended?
For kitchen backsplashes, 3/8 inch is the largest spacer size recommended. Anything larger can create grout lines prone to cracking. Follow your tile supplier’s advice for the maximum size appropriate to your specific tile.
Choosing the Right Tile Spacers
Here are some final tips for selecting the right tile spacers:
- Consult your tile supplier for the recommended spacer size based on your tile material, thickness, and finish.
- Read the manufacturer spacing guidelines for your specific tile product. Some tiles require different spacer allowances.
- Buy high quality plastic spacers designed specifically for tile. Avoid flimsy or thin spacers that can break or deform.
- Purchase packages of mixed size spacers so you can use different sizes for unique tile layouts.
- Buy spacers matched to your tile thickness. Thicker tiles require longer spacer legs.
- Make sure you have enough. Estimate 1-2 spacers per tile as a general rule.
With the correct size and quantity of tile spacers, you can install your kitchen backsplash with professional-looking results. Take the time to properly space and align your tiles, and your finished backsplash will have clean uniform grout lines that enhance the entire look.
Conclusion
For most kitchen backsplash projects, 1/16 or 1/8 inch tile spacers are recommended. Consider the tile size and layout, grout line appearance, and tile material characteristics when deciding on the ideal width. Invest in quality plastic spacers made specifically for tile installation. Place 4 spacers evenly around each tile, and use spacer clips at all grout line junctions. Allow the thinset to fully cure before removing the spacers prior to grouting. Paying close attention to proper spacer usage will help ensure your backsplash looks crisp, uniform, and professionally installed.