Sal is such a professional - you should do some Master Class videos. I'm almost done my kitchen tiling project and have run into the issue of my grout lines (doing 1/8th with rectified tiles) not quite lining up now. Fortunately it's near a corner where (once the cabinets are installed) you'll only notice one or two uneven lines. Anyhow, just wanted to say that it's never as easy as the pros make it look. They have hundreds if not thousands of jobs under their belts and have gained so much experience over the years. This is only my 4th tiling job ever, but over all I'm quite pleased with the results. Sal, your insight and experience is invaluable and we all appreciate the videos you make. Thanks for teaching and advising us 😁
You all prolly dont care but does someone know of a way to log back into an Instagram account? I was stupid forgot the account password. I would love any tips you can give me!
@Ahmad Harold I really appreciate your reply. I got to the site through google and im trying it out now. Takes a while so I will get back to you later when my account password hopefully is recovered.
I spoke to a networking group this past week about these exact issues. I always send my customers to a tile store. Sometimes they go big box, and then cant have the desired look they want because of the cheap tile and its inherent flaws. Like you said Sal, you get what you pay for.
Very well explained, Sal. A lot of people in my corner of the world want their tiles butted together, probably because they don't know much about tiling and the laws of physics. They say the customer's always right... I am glad that the issue of tile spacing has finally been addressed in such detail. All the best.
This is just the information/video I was looking for. You’ve included experiential knowledge as well as TCNA standards/guidelines. Absolutely perfect man!
So you have to remember that I am on a construction site, trying to get the job done, it is dusty. lighting is never good. space is always limite. High tech expensive lighting and sound equipment can not be used, they would be destroyed in short order. I work alone and have to do everything myself. So I rely on the info, not the quality of the picture or the sound. These are not mock ups they are actual installs done for my customers. So if they video does not meet your standard, i am open to hearing how to improve it with the conditions I have to work with.
I'm curious specifically what tile (brand/model) you used on this job. It's absolutely beautiful and I'd be interested in using that for my DIY tile project if it hasn't been discontinued. Thanks for the grout line width explanation.
I watch your videos and it seems like you’re always fitting tiles perfectly. I thought it’s because you pick and choose the kind of work you take on. We have the size problem on a lot of tiles in the UK. I can tell by watching you tile that you have years upon years of experience. I’m an aspiring tiler who likes to think that once you reach a certain calibre you can leave behind the cheap tile jobs ? I also agree with the other comment about you doing Master Class Videos. I think craftsmen like you have more credibility than all of the big companies in this industry put together 😉
I'm using a 24"x48" tile in my main bathroom; matte finish on the floor and polished tile on the tub/shower area. The tile is porcelain. The question is what size grout line do I use?? I want the large format tile to appear more like a 'slab'. Thanks for the crash course in everything tile - you're the best!
Any issue doing 1/8 grout joint with 12 x 24 rectified tiles? First time tiling a floor and even with tile leveling spacers, I've heard that 1/16 can be challenging for people new to tiling.
Great information! Do you find that the recommended grout space from the manufacturer printed on the box is true? Most tile boxes I looked at do not include info about whether they are rectified or calibrated.
If a tile is rectified it will say so, The caliber of the tile will be printed on the box. Important to be sure all numbers match. Dye lot, Caliber and gauge, as well as being all the same model tile.
Help. I have 2”x4” rough-faced marble tile for my kitchen backsplash. Please advise what type grout I should use. Also, what TECHNIQUE to grout it since it will be super hard to wipe grout off the face! Thank you in advance. Wish I had seen your videos before I chose this tile!
Great video just answered my question.... but I have another, getting ready to do my master bath I am putting in a barn door, the barn door will be to the inside of the bathroom and will be showing about 6 inches of tile/threshold. I don’t want threshold and some tile showing can I go with just tile instead of threshold and use some kind of schluter trim to go from tile to carpet. You have a opinion or video that might help. Thanks so much, you have responded quickly to my comments recently and hopefully this time will be no different. Starting my tile project tomorrow
Plenty of Schluter trim that you can use, so yes you can do that. As far as a stand alone video, I don't think I have one, but have several videos where you can see me do that. Problem is finding those videos.
my 1x2 lft,has a bit of a beveled edge,so if I use 1/16 spacer it ends up like a eighth or so,if I use 1/32 clip or spacer it's like, 1/16, or better thanks for explaining about rectified,vs non ,and dye lots, gauge, etc,you da best
@@SalDiBlasi so I was gunna use perfect level master 1/32 on my walls, of shower,because I thought I'd get smaller grout,tcna,says I need 1/16,guess I can use the clips,w a 1/16 spacer,or 1/8,,I am using dilex eke,on change of plane,
@@SalDiBlasi hey sal does the minimum grout also apply to installation on concrete floors? Or can they be smaller providing everything is as required with the tiles
@@SalDiBlasi 👍well that's good, what do you do with a lot of kiln release? I'm so afraid of it being a bond breaker even though I back butter and know I have good coverage....I had one job that I used a wire brush in a bucket of clean water to clean the back it was so bad. You think that was overkill on my part?
Mahalo for sharing Sal! You da man!!! Question coming to you from Hawai’i. We are using a glass abalone tile accent with a ceramic 12x22 on one shower wall and a slate 12x24 on the other shower wall and tub surround. Yes, custom AF...I know. The question is...do you have any advice on mixing grout line sizes? We have 3 different “recommended” grout line sizes from the manufacturers and are trying to decided what to do. Thanks in advance for any help and happy Aloha Friday!!
Hello Sal, thanks for this very informative video :) I was thinking, in the case of wall tiles, would installing tiles without the grout line be possible? since it won't involve any flexing or heavy amount of stress?
You're gonna think I'm crazy lol but I'm restoring my pink 50s bathroom and I have the little 1×1 square tiles which are going to have to be laid individually 🥴 (it's a labor of love) What size grout line would you recommend?
Hi, I want to lay 20x20 ceramic tiles using leveler spacers but I can't seem to find many that are 3/16 (which is what the internet says I need for that size tile) could I use a smaller grout line size?
Thanks Sal. Remodeling our master shower - had exact questions you answered. Not our first rodeo on grouting, however Ultra Color Plus FA really has a fast set time. Rethinking as I'm injured so can't do 2nd helper right now. Using 24x12 gray floor tile, curb & shower seat capped with white quartz. Thinking front side under curb could run 24" strips of white Dahl tile matching color/visual with 24x12" vertical shower white wall tile. Husband thinking making 12" length cuts to match up with gray floor tile (24x12") running 12" edges up to curb. I'm thinking running 24" length=fewer cuts for front of curb - cleaner lines but still some grout joints (fewer). We'll match floor grout lines where possible. Your thoughts?
How do you set large tile with a thin 1/16" grout line against a threshold like a door, cabinet, etc. without a baseboard? There's not sufficient room to move the tile back and forth.
Hi, you mentioned going to 1/8 inch but what if you go 13mm on a ceramic terracotta lookalike tile. Would you run into issues goingg larger on grout joints. Cheers!!
Great video as always Sal. So you are saying to never use the Perfect Level Master 1mm (1/32") size T-Lock clips? Is there a specific use for them (like with separate spacers) or do they just go against TCNA standards but people do it anyways?
I actually use them all the time, just add the appropriate spacer in conjunction with the leveling system, you get much fewer, if any improper breaks that have to be then cut out, and if you do they are very easy to slice with a utility knife.
Depends on the glass, best to check with the manufacturer, most times they will include a technical sheet that details what mortars and types of grout to use, along with other useful info. not always included but often, especially when you don't buy them at a box store.
Actually was not, made sure of that. here is an artlicle to read www.sealerswarehouse.com.au/pdf-documents/Aqua%20Mix/Aqua%20Mix%20Guides/Technical%20Article/Aqua-News-June-2013-Kiln-Release-Problems.pdf
I get asked for 1mm joints often,this with rectified tiles ,I say 2mm is the tightest I use ,some customers accept this others dont saying they hate big joints ! ,2 mm joints smartly done looks just right but just no talking to some people,I told one person who complained about grout joints to get lino ,grout joints integral part of tiles.
The customer is not the expert, you are, if they insist on something that is wrong and could compromise the installation, walk away. If something goes wrong down the road, they will blame you, no matter what they told you to begin with,. You are the expert, not the client.
Would the shape of the tile affect the grout line thickness? For example, would a hex tile be grouted any differently than a square tile of the same type and material?
Doesn't brick pattern on a 12 x24 go against manufacturer (possibly ttmac aswell) recommendation? I thought you should only do a 1/3 off set of your not doing stack pattern.
It is not quite that cut and dry, 1/3 is recommended for many 12x24 tiles, the key word is "Recommended". If the tile is flat, not a problem, if you use a leveling system, you can often do 1/2 stagger. The key is how you install it and the quality of the tile. Some tiles look bad no matter how you install them, that is why you get what you pay for.
You sir know your business. Im planning to install wood look tiles 9x47. But i would LOVE to have the smallest grout possible. You think going 1/32 would be a big big mistake?
Hello, for 32by 6 wooden style tile. Do you recoemned using 1/8 or 1/16? I am just debating because i dint want any dust or water in the between the lines but i also want those tiles to look like wood. Any help or ideas would be helpful :)
Hi Sal, the directional arrows on the back of 60x60 large format porcelain tiles what is this in reference to? I suspect the direction? Should the tiles be placed in the north, east, south or west direction?
I always feel that it's my fault that tiles don't line up. When the job is done i feel like i failed. Even if clients don't notice anything wrong. But I know and it bothers me.
If done properly, the everything should be straight, square and even. Not saying that you are doing something wrong, you might just be too critical of yourself, but there is always room to improve and do a better job. Just keep doing the best work you can do, always trying to do better.
KOMEPCAHT I know how you feel brother. I feel it too. The imperfections make me think I’m not good enough sometimes and should quit tiling. However, I feel awesome when I leave a job that looks 👌and I bet you do too ? I think it’s this attitude that will make guys like me and you improve. Keep learning and doing your best my friend and it’s impossible to fail. It’s good that you care. If you don’t already you should watch Isaac Ostrom on UA-cam too. He has an awesome attitude towards tile work. It ain’t easy this tiling game but it’s massively rewarding in terms of job fulfilment. 👍👍👍
The information is good, but the audio is terrible, I hope you could at least move more careful the camera to don't get too loud noise while changing view.
The groutlines issue,i explain this to my customers over and over, people want to install 1$ sqft tile with all kinds of size errors without groutlines lol usually they get some quotes handymen that think its ok to do so
Show them the TCNA handbook, point it out and then explain to them how the handyman does not even know what the TCNA is and that is why they should think carefully about their decision of who to hire.
Ok thanks could you make a video of your work vehicle setup if you get a chance I been working out of a frontier and it’s not the best set up I don’t know if I want a van or a trailer thanks sal
Hey Sal, thanks for all the instruction videos. Very informative and you do great work. You have built up my confidence before I tackle my kitchen, you should see my last kitchen tile job lol. Anyways, my big box store tile recommendation is 1/16 spacer but I think I'm going with 1/8 spacers instead to be safe and to avoid any butting and rubbing. The tile is not rectified. What do you recommend as far as which brand spacer / leveler?
If you are installing large format tile, use a leveling system, you will get a much better result. If you need a spacer these are good if you don't want to bother removing them, amzn.to/3nYVpxI however i prefer something like this amzn.to/3psSRsf
Great video Sal, I hope the people in my area watch this. I'm sick of being asked if tile "needs" a grout joint, or can you make the grout joint smaller than a 1/16....🤦♂️
@@SalDiBlasi that is a very good point, I'm just such a new entrepreneur I really try to give my customers what they want.....within reason. The two biggest things I always have to say no to around here are, extremely small grout joints, and niches on exterior walls. And some of them still insist on it.....and I just wont do it.
@@460sw3 Best to stand your ground when they ask for stupid stuff, you are the expert and will e held responsible for any eventual problems, even if they did insist.
Just because they make them, does not mean you should use them. Some people like to add their own spacers in conjunction with a leveling clip. Not as obviouse as you might think.
Besides what salt said, also there are non rectified tiles that the edges are not a 90 degree angle to the surface, in fact when you butt them dry to another tile, they touch , but you still have a gap because the bottom edges are out further then the top edge. So if you use a 1/16 clip, you actually wind up with a 1/8 grout line . So in this case using a clip smaller than a 1/16 can actually give you a 1/16 finished joint. I still dont like using any clips smaller than 1/16 because they seem a bit more fragile, but if a customer really wanted a 1/16 joint with a tile that had a "v" shaped grout channel and you had to use clips, a 1/32 clip might be the option, but now you are setting your tiles closer than the 1/16 minimum distance , so not really a good idea
Hi Sal, great video!!! I just have a question. You said minimum 1/16, but do you think I can do 1/16 space for 8/16 non rectified ceramic tile on my tub surround? It’s a Durock backer board. My concern is potential tile cracking because of the expansions and contractions. Thank you.
You obviously have lot of experience and there is lot to learn from you but video/audio quality is big let down I couldn't finish the video because of it.
I answered that question in another comment, nut here it is again. If they sell them, it does not mean you have to buy them, and if you do buy them, it does not mean that you can't add your own spacer to make the grout line wider. The cell tabacco, does not mean you have to use it.
![Tile Notch Trowel sizes. Which trowel size do you need for ....? [Full vid]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/FxkS87BGUfI/mqdefault.jpg)
Sal is such a professional - you should do some Master Class videos. I'm almost done my kitchen tiling project and have run into the issue of my grout lines (doing 1/8th with rectified tiles) not quite lining up now. Fortunately it's near a corner where (once the cabinets are installed) you'll only notice one or two uneven lines. Anyhow, just wanted to say that it's never as easy as the pros make it look. They have hundreds if not thousands of jobs under their belts and have gained so much experience over the years. This is only my 4th tiling job ever, but over all I'm quite pleased with the results.
Sal, your insight and experience is invaluable and we all appreciate the videos you make. Thanks for teaching and advising us 😁
You all prolly dont care but does someone know of a way to log back into an Instagram account?
I was stupid forgot the account password. I would love any tips you can give me!
@Dominick Lennon Instablaster =)
@Ahmad Harold I really appreciate your reply. I got to the site through google and im trying it out now.
Takes a while so I will get back to you later when my account password hopefully is recovered.
@Ahmad Harold It did the trick and I actually got access to my account again. I am so happy!
Thanks so much, you saved my account :D
@Dominick Lennon Happy to help :D
I spoke to a networking group this past week about these exact issues. I always send my customers to a tile store. Sometimes they go big box, and then cant have the desired look they want because of the cheap tile and its inherent flaws.
Like you said Sal, you get what you pay for.
Very well explained, Sal. A lot of people in my corner of the world want their tiles butted together, probably because they don't know much about tiling and the laws of physics. They say the customer's always right... I am glad that the issue of tile spacing has finally been addressed in such detail.
All the best.
Not rocket science, but important to know.
This is just the information/video I was looking for. You’ve included experiential knowledge as well as TCNA standards/guidelines. Absolutely perfect man!
Glad you enjoyed it!
When the info is as golden as that and the guy is run off his feet o can live with the scratchy sound. Thanks great video
Thanks for watching!
10+ years in construction Buisnes but Sal always is inspiration for me.
Great explanation Sal.
Thanks for watching!
.....but he won't make a good video producer. sound and vision awful and very distracting and annoying - now what was the video about?
So you have to remember that I am on a construction site, trying to get the job done, it is dusty. lighting is never good. space is always limite. High tech expensive lighting and sound equipment can not be used, they would be destroyed in short order. I work alone and have to do everything myself. So I rely on the info, not the quality of the picture or the sound. These are not mock ups they are actual installs done for my customers. So if they video does not meet your standard, i am open to hearing how to improve it with the conditions I have to work with.
Sal is not the greatest cameraman but he is a great tiler.
Sal the stud teaching me valuable information again 😎
😊👍
Thank you. Im installing 24x48 in my laundry and wanted very small grout lines. This was to the point and easy to understand
Glad it was helpful!
I'm curious specifically what tile (brand/model) you used on this job. It's absolutely beautiful and I'd be interested in using that for my DIY tile project if it hasn't been discontinued. Thanks for the grout line width explanation.
I wish he’d get someone to video for him to cut out all the motion and muffled sound. I’m really trying to pay attention to what he’s saying.
I couldn't hear either. The scratching was so loud!
Thank you for the quick reply. The video was extremely informative.
Glad it was helpful!
I love the look of this floor.
I watch your videos and it seems like you’re always fitting tiles perfectly. I thought it’s because you pick and choose the kind of work you take on. We have the size problem on a lot of tiles in the UK. I can tell by watching you tile that you have years upon years of experience. I’m an aspiring tiler who likes to think that once you reach a certain calibre you can leave behind the cheap tile jobs ?
I also agree with the other comment about you doing Master Class Videos. I think craftsmen like you have more credibility than all of the big companies in this industry put together 😉
Working on the master class thing, and yes, at a certain point you can pick and choose the jobs you want to do. I turn down a lot of jobs.
Sal DiBlasi good to hear that 👍👍
I'm using a 24"x48" tile in my main bathroom; matte finish on the floor and polished tile on the tub/shower area. The tile is porcelain. The question is what size grout line do I use?? I want the large format tile to appear more like a 'slab'. Thanks for the crash course in everything tile - you're the best!
Thanks for watching my video.
It's the small details!
Thank you so much!
Thank you for this information. Now I can do my kitchen tile properly. Really appreciate you!
Glad I could help!
Thanks Videos are very helpful.
So glad i watched this video on grout lines...you were a big help
Thanks:)
great
I like to work out 5 boxes at a time shuffle colors like playing cards,darker colors too bunched up on that floor
ua-cam.com/video/9Pvnxi7Hva4/v-deo.html
Any issue doing 1/8 grout joint with 12 x 24 rectified tiles? First time tiling a floor and even with tile leveling spacers, I've heard that 1/16 can be challenging for people new to tiling.
What do you film with Sal? The audio kills it for me.
His hand is over the mic. You can tell when he moves it how it muffles and blocks the sound.
Yeah scratching the shit out of my ears
Another great video Thanks
Great information. Thank you.
Glad it was helpful!
I like this Sal fella
😊👍
How do you get the non grout line look of hotel lobbies that use marble or granite tiles?
NO LESS THEN 1/16"!!
Thanks for explaining this. Question: We purchased some tile and we are not sure if its rectified or not. How can we tell?
It will say rectified on the box, otherwise it is not.
Thank you for taking the time to do the videos it really has helped me a lot thank you.
You are so welcome!
Great information! Do you find that the recommended grout space from the manufacturer printed on the box is true? Most tile boxes I looked at do not include info about whether they are rectified or calibrated.
If a tile is rectified it will say so, The caliber of the tile will be printed on the box. Important to be sure all numbers match. Dye lot, Caliber and gauge, as well as being all the same model tile.
Thank you. This helped
Help. I have 2”x4” rough-faced marble tile for my kitchen backsplash. Please advise what type grout I should use. Also, what TECHNIQUE to grout it since it will be super hard to wipe grout off the face! Thank you in advance. Wish I had seen your videos before I chose this tile!
Use a sealer and a grout release before grouting.
Great video just answered my question.... but I have another, getting ready to do my master bath I am putting in a barn door, the barn door will be to the inside of the bathroom and will be showing about 6 inches of tile/threshold. I don’t want threshold and some tile showing can I go with just tile instead of threshold and use some kind of schluter trim to go from tile to carpet. You have a opinion or video that might help. Thanks so much, you have responded quickly to my comments recently and hopefully this time will be no different. Starting my tile project tomorrow
Plenty of Schluter trim that you can use, so yes you can do that. As far as a stand alone video, I don't think I have one, but have several videos where you can see me do that. Problem is finding those videos.
@@SalDiBlasi thank you so much for replying.I will continue looking for more videos. Once again your awesome keep up the great work
Really excellent stuff.
Glad you enjoyed it
my 1x2 lft,has a bit of a beveled edge,so if I use 1/16 spacer it ends up like a eighth or so,if I use 1/32 clip or spacer it's like, 1/16, or better thanks for explaining about rectified,vs non ,and dye lots, gauge, etc,you da best
Does not matter what it looks like, minimum distance between tiles is 1/16"
@@SalDiBlasi so I was gunna use perfect level master 1/32 on my walls, of shower,because I thought I'd get smaller grout,tcna,says I need 1/16,guess I can use the clips,w a 1/16 spacer,or 1/8,,I am using dilex eke,on change of plane,
I saw a job the other day that Lowe’s installed. It was porcelain plank, with NO grout line!!! I wonder what’s going to become of that floor. 🤷♂️
What does it mean when you're grout and tile are cracking on a upper floor. How can it be fixed so it won't happen again.
Cracked grout and tile, usually means a failed floor. Needs to be replaced.
Replace sub floor and brace joist fix it. The house is 48 years old.
What size spacers are generally used for backsplash 1/16th or 1/8th in the kitchen. Thanks Mate...
Thank you for making this informative videos, they are great for our industry 👍
Thanks Luke
@@SalDiBlasi hey sal does the minimum grout also apply to installation on concrete floors? Or can they be smaller providing everything is as required with the tiles
Thank you sal
WOW, lot of kiln release on that pice you picked up and showed us! Haven't seen that much in a while
The back of the tile is actually very clean and dust free, it just looks that way.
@@SalDiBlasi 👍well that's good, what do you do with a lot of kiln release? I'm so afraid of it being a bond breaker even though I back butter and know I have good coverage....I had one job that I used a wire brush in a bucket of clean water to clean the back it was so bad. You think that was overkill on my part?
@@460sw3 Not at all, back has to be cleaned if the kiln release is excessive.
Thankyou sal, great job.
You bet
Mahalo for sharing Sal! You da man!!!
Question coming to you from Hawai’i. We are using a glass abalone tile accent with a ceramic 12x22 on one shower wall and a slate 12x24 on the other shower wall and tub surround. Yes, custom AF...I know. The question is...do you have any advice on mixing grout line sizes? We have 3 different “recommended” grout line sizes from the manufacturers and are trying to decided what to do. Thanks in advance for any help and happy Aloha Friday!!
If you have different size tiles on different walls, then the grout lines will never match at the corners, so just go with what works best.
Love your videos sal keep up the good work
What about hexagon tile I assume it would hide a 1/8 grout line better on a cheap tile?
Shape and size have no impact on the rule.
Hey Sal, could I get away with a 1/8 grout line on an 18x18 non-rectified tile?
Maybe, really depends on the tile. The better the tile the better the chances. Cheap tile not a chance.
Hello Sal, thanks for this very informative video :) I was thinking, in the case of wall tiles, would installing tiles without the grout line be possible? since it won't involve any flexing or heavy amount of stress?
Thank you Sal
Great vid diyers need to watch this vid
Big fan of your videos! Super helpful content! I agree with others, the sound of this video is bad. Get a college kid to hold the camera for you, Sal!
giving me motion sickness
And hurting my ears eveytime he changes the camera angle
You're gonna think I'm crazy lol but I'm restoring my pink 50s bathroom and I have the little 1×1 square tiles which are going to have to be laid individually 🥴 (it's a labor of love) What size grout line would you recommend?
Holy crap that's some serious dedication! Did you finish your 1x1 tile job?!
Hi, I want to lay 20x20 ceramic tiles using leveler spacers but I can't seem to find many that are 3/16 (which is what the internet says I need for that size tile) could I use a smaller grout line size?
Watch this ua-cam.com/video/-Ey7V4o5OzE/v-deo.html
@@SalDiBlasi thank you 😊
thank you ,i wasnt sure what rectified meant
ua-cam.com/video/rr7418_fucI/v-deo.html
Thanks Sal. Remodeling our master shower - had exact questions you answered. Not our first rodeo on grouting, however Ultra Color Plus FA really has a fast set time. Rethinking as I'm injured so can't do 2nd helper right now. Using 24x12 gray floor tile, curb & shower seat capped with white quartz. Thinking front side under curb could run 24" strips of white Dahl tile matching color/visual with 24x12" vertical shower white wall tile. Husband thinking making 12" length cuts to match up with gray floor tile (24x12") running 12" edges up to curb. I'm thinking running 24" length=fewer cuts for front of curb - cleaner lines but still some grout joints (fewer). We'll match floor grout lines where possible. Your thoughts?
laying 16 x 16 floor tile, is 3/16 space ok?
How do you set large tile with a thin 1/16" grout line against a threshold like a door, cabinet, etc. without a baseboard? There's not sufficient room to move the tile back and forth.
Use a wider gap
Hi, you mentioned going to 1/8 inch but what if you go 13mm on a ceramic terracotta lookalike tile.
Would you run into issues goingg larger on grout joints. Cheers!!
Use the grout line that suites the tile as long as it is not less than the minimum size appropriate for that tile.
How do you handle field expansion joints when you are using grout spacing that is smaller than 1/4"?
Great video as always Sal. So you are saying to never use the Perfect Level Master 1mm (1/32") size T-Lock clips? Is there a specific use for them (like with separate spacers) or do they just go against TCNA standards but people do it anyways?
I actually use them all the time, just add the appropriate spacer in conjunction with the leveling system, you get much fewer, if any improper breaks that have to be then cut out, and if you do they are very easy to slice with a utility knife.
Also doesnt most glass tile require at least 1/8" grout line because of the expansion/contraction of glass which can crack?
Depends on the glass, best to check with the manufacturer, most times they will include a technical sheet that details what mortars and types of grout to use, along with other useful info. not always included but often, especially when you don't buy them at a box store.
@@SalDiBlasi Thanks for the reply!
Hey Sal. That is a lo of kiln release on the bottom of the kitchen tile. What is the best way to get that off?
Actually was not, made sure of that. here is an artlicle to read www.sealerswarehouse.com.au/pdf-documents/Aqua%20Mix/Aqua%20Mix%20Guides/Technical%20Article/Aqua-News-June-2013-Kiln-Release-Problems.pdf
Thx .. much great advice
Glad it was helpful!
Is it safe to assume that the 50% running bond pattern you used here is acceptable because the tiles are rectified? Thanks.
Not so much because they are rectified, but because I used a leveling system and the tiles are of a very good quality.
do we have to use sanded or unsanded grout for 1/16 grout line?
I get asked for 1mm joints often,this with rectified tiles ,I say 2mm is the tightest I use ,some customers accept this others dont saying they hate big joints ! ,2 mm joints smartly done looks just right but just no talking to some people,I told one person who complained about grout joints to get lino ,grout joints integral part of tiles.
The customer is not the expert, you are, if they insist on something that is wrong and could compromise the installation, walk away. If something goes wrong down the road, they will blame you, no matter what they told you to begin with,. You are the expert, not the client.
I just use grout haze to cover up any color variation.
Would the shape of the tile affect the grout line thickness? For example, would a hex tile be grouted any differently than a square tile of the same type and material?
This applies to all kinds of tiles.
Doesn't brick pattern on a 12 x24 go against manufacturer (possibly ttmac aswell) recommendation? I thought you should only do a 1/3 off set of your not doing stack pattern.
It is not quite that cut and dry, 1/3 is recommended for many 12x24 tiles, the key word is "Recommended". If the tile is flat, not a problem, if you use a leveling system, you can often do 1/2 stagger. The key is how you install it and the quality of the tile. Some tiles look bad no matter how you install them, that is why you get what you pay for.
@@SalDiBlasi ok thanks for the reply
In the past, I picked a grout line size based on the look, but to know the real reason 🤯
Was that tile job done after the kitchen island and cabinets were placed
yes
What size spacer would you recommend for a 9x11 hexagon floor tiles ?
Hey Sal! Will you expand on the reason why the TCNA minimum grout line is 1/16” ? Is this to account for movement, shrinkage and expansion?
I explained the main reason in the video, that tile edges rub together and chip.
Thank you for replying. I must have missed that in the video.
Really enjoy your content!
Thank youu!
You sir know your business. Im planning to install wood look tiles 9x47. But i would LOVE to have the smallest grout possible. You think going 1/32 would be a big big mistake?
Never less than 1/16"
Sal DiBlasi roger
What did you end up doing,
Hello, for 32by 6 wooden style tile. Do you recoemned using 1/8 or 1/16? I am just debating because i dint want any dust or water in the between the lines but i also want those tiles to look like wood. Any help or ideas would be helpful :)
Rectified tiles you can do 1/16" for calibrated tiles no less than 1/8". Use a grout color that blends with the tile to hide the grout line.
Thank you, Sal.
Thanks new subscriber
Thanks for subbing!
Hi Sal, the directional arrows on the back of 60x60 large format porcelain tiles what is this in reference to? I suspect the direction?
Should the tiles be placed in the north, east, south or west direction?
The arrows on the back of the tile are not anything you need to pay attention to.
I always feel that it's my fault that tiles don't line up. When the job is done i feel like i failed. Even if clients don't notice anything wrong. But I know and it bothers me.
If done properly, the everything should be straight, square and even. Not saying that you are doing something wrong, you might just be too critical of yourself, but there is always room to improve and do a better job. Just keep doing the best work you can do, always trying to do better.
KOMEPCAHT I know how you feel brother. I feel it too. The imperfections make me think I’m not good enough sometimes and should quit tiling. However, I feel awesome when I leave a job that looks 👌and I bet you do too ?
I think it’s this attitude that will make guys like me and you improve. Keep learning and doing your best my friend and it’s impossible to fail. It’s good that you care. If you don’t already you should watch Isaac Ostrom on UA-cam too. He has an awesome attitude towards tile work. It ain’t easy this tiling game but it’s massively rewarding in terms of job fulfilment. 👍👍👍
The information is good, but the audio is terrible, I hope you could at least move more careful the camera to don't get too loud noise while changing view.
Can a grout line be too wide? I was thinking of doing 3/8
Yes, grout has limitations, but 3/8 is still acceptable.
Thanks for the video! What’s the name of the floor tile you were laying on the floor?
The groutlines issue,i explain this to my customers over and over, people want to install 1$ sqft tile with all kinds of size errors without groutlines lol usually they get some quotes handymen that think its ok to do so
Show them the TCNA handbook, point it out and then explain to them how the handyman does not even know what the TCNA is and that is why they should think carefully about their decision of who to hire.
Glad to see the "Blair Witch Project" film crew is still getting work. Informative but Sal just stand still and talk. Are you nervous?
Stand still, not possible.😜
Does all of your advice about grout line selection apply to wall tiles also ??
yes
Great video sal do you have any experience with tarrazzo tile?
Not really used around these parts.
Ok thanks could you make a video of your work vehicle setup if you get a chance I been working out of a frontier and it’s not the best set up I don’t know if I want a van or a trailer thanks sal
Hey Sal, thanks for all the instruction videos. Very informative and you do great work. You have built up my confidence before I tackle my kitchen, you should see my last kitchen tile job lol.
Anyways, my big box store tile recommendation is 1/16 spacer but I think I'm going with 1/8 spacers instead to be safe and to avoid any butting and rubbing. The tile is not rectified. What do you recommend as far as which brand spacer / leveler?
If you are installing large format tile, use a leveling system, you will get a much better result. If you need a spacer these are good if you don't want to bother removing them, amzn.to/3nYVpxI however i prefer something like this amzn.to/3psSRsf
Most tile will have a min grout joint size recommendation listed on their web site and some will even have it on the box.
Problem, no one ever looks at the box or directions.
@@SalDiBlasi
Lol. You got that right.
Sal we need a work van tour!
Sal, are non rectified tiles usually a lower grade of tile? Great video.
Not necessarily.
Great video Sal, I hope the people in my area watch this. I'm sick of being asked if tile "needs" a grout joint, or can you make the grout joint smaller than a 1/16....🤦♂️
I usually don't ask what grout size they want, I give them what i decide is best.
@@SalDiBlasi that is a very good point, I'm just such a new entrepreneur I really try to give my customers what they want.....within reason. The two biggest things I always have to say no to around here are, extremely small grout joints, and niches on exterior walls. And some of them still insist on it.....and I just wont do it.
@@460sw3 Best to stand your ground when they ask for stupid stuff, you are the expert and will e held responsible for any eventual problems, even if they did insist.
I’m curious, if 1/16 is the minimum grout line, why do some leveling systems, such as RLS, make 1/32 spacer clips?
Just because they make them, does not mean you should use them. Some people like to add their own spacers in conjunction with a leveling clip. Not as obviouse as you might think.
Besides what salt said, also there are non rectified tiles that the edges are not a 90 degree angle to the surface, in fact when you butt them dry to another tile, they touch , but you still have a gap because the bottom edges are out further then the top edge. So if you use a 1/16 clip, you actually wind up with a 1/8 grout line . So in this case using a clip smaller than a 1/16 can actually give you a 1/16 finished joint. I still dont like using any clips smaller than 1/16 because they seem a bit more fragile, but if a customer really wanted a 1/16 joint with a tile that had a "v" shaped grout channel and you had to use clips, a 1/32 clip might be the option, but now you are setting your tiles closer than the 1/16 minimum distance , so not really a good idea
Hi Sal, great video!!! I just have a question. You said minimum 1/16, but do you think I can do 1/16 space for 8/16 non rectified ceramic tile on my tub surround? It’s a Durock backer board. My concern is potential tile cracking because of the expansions and contractions. Thank you.
Better to do 1/8
@@SalDiBlasi ew, big grout lines are so ugly
Thanks Helpfull, but please record Audio again is really bad!
You obviously have lot of experience and there is lot to learn from you but video/audio quality is big let down I couldn't finish the video because of it.
What about slates? Better yet, a tumbled slate? A good craftsman knows How to work with an unevenly gagged tile. Splitting hair...atleast in my view!
I cringe when the customer wants cheep tile. If it’s not dimensionally consistent, it’s not going to look good.
항상 잘보고 있습니다.
So why does perfect level sell 1m grout line
I answered that question in another comment, nut here it is again. If they sell them, it does not mean you have to buy them, and if you do buy them, it does not mean that you can't add your own spacer to make the grout line wider. The cell tabacco, does not mean you have to use it.
just give it in mm please 25mm/16 x 3
butned through treated figure 2:16