Classic subway tile typically comes in a 4 inch by 8 inch size. However, it is also available in a variety of different sizes, including 2 inch by 6 inch, 3 inch by 6 inch, 3 inch by 12 inch, 4 inch by 12 inch, 6 inch by 12 inch, and 8 inch by 12 inch.
Additionally, some manufacturers offer them in more custom shapes, such as hexagons, octagons, and other unique shapes. The most common finish for traditional subway tile is glossy and glazed. However, there are also many other finishes, such as honed, whites and creams, or decorative trims.
No matter the size or finish, the classic white subway tile will always be a beautiful and timeless choice for any space.
How do I know what size subway tile to buy?
When selecting the size of subway tile to buy, there are a few factors to consider. First, think about the overall size of the space you are tiling. If you are tiling a small area, smaller sized tiles may be more appropriate.
Conversely, if you are tiling a larger space, larger tiles may help cover more ground and create a greater sense of visual balance.
The material of the tile should also be taken into account. Some materials, such as ceramic, are limited to certain sizes due to the manufacturing process. On the other hand, glass subway tile may be available in a variety of sizes, giving you more options when selecting a size.
The pattern of your tile can also be a factor in choosing the size. Large tiles can make a strong visual impact, while smaller tiles can help create intricate patterns and designs. Some space sizes and patterns will work better with one size than another.
Finally, the type of grout you choose may also have an impact on the size of the tiles that you select. Darker grouts require larger tile, since the joints are wider. Conversely, lighter grouts can be used with smaller tiles, since the joints are narrower.
Ultimately, the size of subway tile you choose should be based on the size of the area you are tiling, the material and size options available, the desired pattern, and your chosen grout. Consider each of these factors when making your selection to ensure that you have the right size of subway tile for your project.
How thick is 3×6 subway tile?
The thickness of 3×6 subway tile typically ranges from 3/8″ to 5/8″. The standard thickness of subway tile is 1/4″, however, there are several manufacturers that offer thicker subway tile as well. Some of these manufacturers are Ann Sacks, Fireclay Tile, Elida Ceramica, and Walker Zanger.
Depending on the type of grout used, tiles can be installed for either a more traditional look with a 1/4″ grout joint, or for a more contemporary look with a 3/8” or 1/2” grout joint. No matter the thickness of the subway tile, 3×6 is a classic and timeless tile option that can be used to give any home an updated look.
How many square feet is a 3×6 tile?
A 3×6 tile is 18 square feet in size. To calculate the square feet of any tile, simply multiply the length of the tile by the width. To find the square feet of a 3×6 tile, multiply 3 x 6 to get 18 square feet.
Should you use spacers for subway tile?
Yes, you should use spacers for subway tile. Spacers are small pieces of plastic, usually about the size of a pencil eraser, that create a small space between each tile when you are installing them. This is especially important for subway tile because it needs to look seamless and uniform.
Without spacers, it is difficult to achieve the desired look. Additionally, having an even amount of space between each tile will help prevent cracking or damage. Spacers also help keep your lines straight and make sure the joints are aligned, which will give your project a professional finish.
Finally, if you choose spacers that are visible between your tiles, it can be a great design feature.
What size spacers should you use for subway tile?
The size of spacers you should use for subway tile will depend on the size of your tile. As a general rule, the industry standard recommends using 1/16” spacers for 3 x 6 subway tiles, 1/8” spacers for 4 x 8 tiles, and 3/16” spacers for 6 x 12 tiles.
However, consider the width of the grout lines to make sure that your tiles are not too crowded together or too far apart. If you’d like a more unique look for your tile project, there are larger spacers available in a variety of sizes, such as 1/4”, 1/2”, 5/8” and more.
No matter what size spacer you choose, it’s important to use the same size spacer between all of the tiles for a consistent look.
Should I back butter subway tile?
Yes, you should back butter subway tile. This is the process of evenly spreading thinset mortar onto the back of the tiles and providing a strong, mechanically bonded adhesive between the tile and the substrate.
Back buttering allows for even coverage of adhesive and ensures that the tiles are attached securely to the substrate. This will help with the overall aesthetic of the installation and helps to prevent grout from filling in gaps that may occur if the tiles are not properly adhered.
Additionally, by back buttering the tile you can ensure that the tiling project will last for years to come.
Do you have to use grout with subway tile?
Yes, grout is typically used with subway tile for several reasons. First, grout provides a finished look to your tile project, creating a distinct separation between each tile. This affects the overall finished aesthetic of the tile design, whether using a contrasting grout color or simply a complementary one to the color of the tile.
Second, grout helps to fill any small gaps between tiles and keeps the tiles from twisting, shifting or cracking. It’s an important step for the longevity of your tile and helps prevent moisture from entering the space between the tiles which could lead to mold.
Grout also provides a slight cushion between the tiles which helps keep them in place.
Last, grout gives the tile additional protection and can help protect it from dirt, stains, weather and wear and tear. A waterproof, mildew-resistant grout is a must when using subway tile in wet areas such as showers, tubs and countertops to help prevent water damage.
Overall, grout is a necessary component when installing subway tile, regardless of the area. Using quality materials and professionals will ensure that your tiling project is designed with care and lasts for many years to come.
Are subway tiles classic or trendy?
Subway tiles are classic in terms of their origins and traditional use, however, they have been interpreted differently in recent years, making them both classic and trendy. Subway tiles have been a popular choice for bathrooms and kitchens since first used in the New York City Subway in the early 1900s.
The tiles have a simple design, making them a timeless and classic choice for tiling walls and floors. In recent years, subway tiles have been used in various ways such as mixing with different shapes and sizes of tiles, and using different materials such as stone and glass.
They have also been used to create vibrant and bold patterns that can be used to make an interior look modern and fresh. As a result, subways are a classic choice due to their longstanding use, but also a trendy option thanks to how modern designers have interpreted this classic style.
Is subway tile still popular in kitchens?
Subway tile is still hugely popular in kitchens today. This classic tile choice offers a timeless look that can work in many kitchen design styles, from traditional to modern. It’s a highly versatile material that can be used to make a statement, or blend in with other elements in the kitchen.
It’s also relatively inexpensive and low-maintenance compared to other tile materials, and can be used to create pattern and texture. Subway tile is available in a wide range of colors, sizes, and finishes, so you can find the perfect option to fit with your kitchen design.
What’s more is that subway tile is quick and easy to install, so you can easily DIY a project and create an updated look for your kitchen.
Is subway tile considered modern?
Subway tile can be considered modern depending on the context and style of your space. Subway tile has been around since the early 1900’s and was first used in the New York City subway stations. Over the years, subway tile has become a popular and iconic design choice for tile in many homes, restaurants, and other spaces.
The timeless and classic style of subway tile makes it an excellent choice for modern design. However, it can depend on the size, color, and variations of the tile that you choose. If you choose a smaller size, with a glossy finish and contemporary colors, it would have a more modern look.
If you choose larger tiles, with muted colors and earthy tones, it would look more traditional. Subway tile can also be used in creative and interesting ways like as a backsplash in the kitchen, as an accent wall in the living room, or as a modern shower surround.
Ultimately, it can all depend on the way that you use the subway tile to create the desired modern look.
How can I make my white subway tile more interesting?
There are various ways to make a plain white subway tile stand out and look more interesting. If you want to keep the classic look of the tile, but add a little bit of interest, you could consider incorporating a unique grout color or texture.
For instance, you could opt for metallic grout or a grout with a shimmering iridescence. You could also consider installations like a herringbone pattern or a stack bond pattern, to give the tile a more unique look.
If you are looking for a more dramatic effect, you could also consider painting the tile. Bold colors like navy blue or emerald green can really make a white tile stand out. If you don’t want to commit to painting, you could also consider using vinyl decals to give the tile a more personalized look.
Additionally, incorporating a colorful surface tile or even a glass tile can really help draw attention to the subway tile. Adding a border to the subway tile can also help it make more of a statement.
There are so many creative ways to enhance a plain white subway tile, and make it stand out.
What kind of backsplash is timeless?
A timeless backsplash can be defined as a backsplash that is both classic and modern and will look good for years to come. Solid white ceramic tile is a timeless option since it is neutral, durable, and easy to clean.
Subway tile is another timeless option for backsplashes since it can be used in traditional and contemporary design. Natural stone, such as marble or granite, is also a classic choice and will increase the overall value of a home.
Lastly, an etched glass backsplash is a stylish and timeless option. Etched glass provides a modern and unique look and can be customized with designs or colors to suit your style.
Are backsplashes out of style?
Backsplashes certainly aren’t out of style. In fact, they’ve been a popular kitchen design feature for decades. Backsplashes can literally make or break a kitchen’s design. They can add vibrancy to an otherwise dull kitchen while simultaneously maintaining a clean, streamlined look.
In addition, backsplashes are extremely practical, providing an extra layer of protection from water, grease, and other kitchen messes.
Today, backsplashes come in a wide variety of styles and materials, making it easy to find one that matches the overall design of your kitchen. Whether you prefer a classic tile backsplash, a sleek glass panel, or a modern brick wall, there are tons of options available.
With so many colors and designs to choose from, you’re sure to find a backsplash that fits your style.
Should backsplash match cabinets or counters?
The decision of whether backsplash should match cabinets or counters is entirely up to personal preference. If a person prefers a classic look and wants the colors to flow together, cabinets and counters should match.
If a person wants a more unique look and likes to contrast different colors, then it can work to have cabinets and counters of different colors as well as a backsplash of an entirely different color.
It all depends on the look a person is trying to achieve. There can also be a mix and match option where a patterned backsplash is used while the cabinets and counters are of a solid color.
When it comes to materials, those should generally match or be complementary. A tiled backsplash usually looks best when the tiles coordinate with the counter and cabinet materials, though a contrast could be used in certain design contexts to great effect.
If a natural stone counter is used, it goes well with mosaics as well, although a solid color material is a perfectly acceptable option as well.
Ultimately, the choice of whether to match cabinets and countertops with the backsplash is up to personal preference, although there are certain materials that can create stunning visuals. It’s important to think about the overall design scheme and how the colors and materials can blend together to achieve the desired look.
When did subway tile become popular?
Subway tile has been around since the early 1900s, and it became popular soon after. Its distinctive rectangular shape and resemblance to the tile used in New York City’s subway stations were a big hit.
The dense, durable material it was made of was also highly desirable in homes and businesses. By the 1920s, it was being used extensively in commercial settings, and it had spread to residential settings by the 1930s.
The trend has continued over the years, and today subway tile is among the most popular type of tile used in homes and businesses. It is a popular choice for bathrooms, backsplashes, showers, and many other applications.
The combination of its classic look and durability makes it a timeless choice that stands the test of time.
What is the difference between Metro and subway tiles?
Metro and subway tiles are both types of ceramic wall tiles. The primary difference between the two is that Metro tiles have a glossier finish and a almost glassy appearance compared to traditional subway tiles that have a more matte finish and a smoother texture.
Metro tiles can be made from various materials such as ceramics, porcelain, or glass, and commonly have a rectangular or square shape with bevelled edges. Subway tiles usually come in classic white or black, but they can also be found in a wide range of colors, patterns, and sizes.
While both tile types are perfect for walls and backsplashes, subway tiles tend to be the preferred choice for floors due to their sturdier build. Metro tiles on the other hand need to be sealed more regularly than subway tiles in order to maintain their glossy finish and provide proper protection against water and dirt.
Is subway tile a farmhouse?
No, subway tile is not a farmhouse. Subway tile is a type of ceramic tile that was originally developed for use in the NYC subway system in 1904. Since then, it has become popular for use in home decor for its classic, clean lines and its ability to blend in with many different styles of decor.
Farmhouse style, however, tends to feature natural materials such as wood, stone, and wrought iron. Subway tile has been used to complement the farmhouse look when paired with other traditional building materials, but it is not itself a farmhouse.
Will white subway tile ever go out of style?
No, white subway tile is a classic design that has been around for many years and it doesn’t show any signs of going out of style anytime soon. The simple, timeless design is still very popular in modern homes due to its versatility and ability to blend into different design styles.
The fact that it’s low-maintenance, inexpensive, and easy to clean also contributes to its lasting popularity. For those looking for a timeless design, white subway tile can be combined with other timeless elements like concrete, marble, and stainless steel for an elegant, modern look.
Does white subway tile look good with white cabinets?
Yes, white subway tile can look good with white cabinets. White subway tile is a very classic and timeless look that goes with just about any style kitchen. Its bright white color helps to make the room look larger and airier while adding a hint of texture to the space.
White cabinets can also work well with white subway tile as they provide a neutral backdrop that serves as a blank canvas for personalizing the kitchen in whatever style best suits your tastes. When paired together, white cabinets and white subway tile create a sleek, modern look that can make a kitchen appear larger and more unified.
To further enhance this look, consider adding natural elements such as wood countertops or greenery for a pop of color and texture.