If you’re looking to make your traditional subway tile more interesting, there are several options you can consider. For an updated look, you can opt for a pattern with two different colors of subway tile or try a one-of-a-kind pattern like herringbone, chevron, or even a sawtooth pattern.
You can also add decorative accents tiles for a statement wall, such as patterned or bold colored tile, or even mosaic. Additionally, you can use grout in an interesting color, such as a jewel tone or shimmery metallic, to add texture and visual interest to the tiles.
Finally, you can also use accessories to create a unique look for your subway tile, such as using decorative bath sconces, towel bars, and lighting fixtures, or choosing a fun art piece to hang above the tile, to draw attention to your subway tile design.
Is Subway tile going out of style?
No, subway tile is not going out of style. Subway tile has been popular for over 100 years and is still extremely popular today. It is a classic style that is timeless and can be used in a variety of ways.
Subway tile is versatile, easy to clean, and available in an array of colors, making it a great option for different types of home designs. It can also be used on walls, floors, and even countertops, giving it a lot of flexibility and making it easy to incorporate into a variety of designs.
Additionally, subway tile is often associated with modern design, making it a great option for those looking to give their home a more contemporary feel. All in all, Subway tile is timeless, and it is here to stay.
How do you make subway tile pop?
Making subway tile pop is all about finding the right design elements that will capture the eye. One way to make subway tile stand out is by pairing it with a contrasting grout color. For example, pair a white subway tile with a dark gray or black grout to make it stand out.
Additionally, consider changing up the pattern of the tile or mixing in a few accent tiles to create visual interest. If you’re looking to incorporate color, consider adding a few individually painted tiles or colored glass mosaics.
Combining multiple materials like stone or wood with your tile to create an interesting juxtaposition can also add a unique look. Lastly, adding interest to your subway tile can be as simple as choosing interesting hardware.
Opting for a unique faucet or light fixture will ensure that your subway tile really pops.
What backsplash does not go out of style?
Subway tile is a backsplash option that never goes out of style. It has been popular for almost a century and continues to be the go-to choice for many homeowners today. The major benefits of subway tile include its versatility within a range of settings, its ability to be customized and its timeless look.
Subway tile can easily be cut to fit any space, and is available in a wide range of sizes, materials, and colors. It also pairs perfectly with both modern and traditional styles, creating a look that will last for years to come.
Finally, it’s an economical solution since it’s a fairly inexpensive option and is durable enough to last for decades. For all these reasons, subway tile is the perfect choice for an easy, classic look that will never go out of style.
What size subway tile is trending?
Subway tile is an extremely versatile and popular style of tile that has become a longstanding trend in interior design. When it comes to selecting a size, the 3 x 6-inch rectangle is the traditional and classicsize, however, sizes can range from 2 x 4 up to 4 x 12-inch rectangles.
Even though the traditional size is popular, the bigger sizes are becoming more popular these days for an updated look. For instance, 4 x 16-inch tiles are becoming more popular for bathrooms, kitchens, and other areas of the home.
4 x 12-inch tiles are often used in an offset, stacked pattern for an even more modern look. Aside from the traditional rectangle shape, subway tile also comes in various colors, materials, and styles, including beveled and “ghosted” versions.
With so many options and sizes, there’s something for all types of interior design styles.
What is the latest backsplash trend?
Right now, the latest trend in backsplashes is the use of geometric shapes, such as squares, hexagons, and other shapes. This trend often involves using a combination of shapes to create an interesting pattern that draws attention to the backsplash and makes it a focal point of the room.
This trend is particularly popular in contemporary and modern designs. Additionally, there is an increase in the use of monochromatic designs, which can be done in a single color or a combination of muted shades (like grey, black, and white) that creates an elegant and sophisticated look.
Alternatively, other popular trends include mosaic backsplashes with intricate designs, which can often be custom designed to complement the existing décor and add a personal touch to the space. Finally, there has also been a rise in the use of natural materials like stone or marble.
These backsplashes instantly add texture and visual interest to the room.
What size subway tile makes a room look bigger?
Using larger size subway tiles can make a room look bigger. Using tiles with a size of 8”x24” or 12”x24” in standard rectified porcelain or ceramic is a popular choice for giving any room a bigger look.
Generally, the larger the tile the fewer grout lines you have to deal with and this gives the room an illusion of more space. When installing larger subway tile it’s also important to make sure the lines of the tiles are straight and give the illusion of running in a single direction as that will elongate the wall further to make the room look bigger.
Larger subway tiles also reflect light better, helping to enhance the feeling of a larger room.
What is the most popular subway tile pattern?
The most popular subway tile pattern is the classic “offset” pattern, also known as the “brick” or “running bond” pattern. This is a timeless look that is used in many different styles, as it provides an attractive visual texture and pattern that doesn’t overpower the rest of the room.
The traditional format is to arrange the tiles in an offset pattern (the tiles are staggered half a tile length from each other). This pattern can vary slightly, such as with a 1/4 offset pattern for a more crisp and formal look, or with a 3/4 offset pattern for a more unique, softer look.
Depending on the size and shape of the tile, the pattern can be adjusted to achieve different looks. The classic offset pattern has remained popular for many years due to its versatility and timelessness.
Do you grout between subway tile?
Yes, you should grout between subway tile. Grout helps to fill in the gaps between the tiles, provide a waterproof seal, and add to the overall aesthetic of the finished look. When grouting, you should use a latex-modified grout that meets ANSI standards for durability and allows for a minimum use of water during installation and clean up.
You should also use the smallest sized grout joint that the tiles accommodate, which is usually 3/16” for most modern subway tile. Finally, any excess grout residue should be wiped off your tiles immediately using a damp sponge.
How do you start the bottom row of subway tile?
When starting the bottom row of subway tile, begin by finding the center point of where you will start the tile wall. You should measure the length of the wall, divide it by two and make a mark. Once you have found the center point on the wall, use a level to draw a line from the floor up to the mark.
This will ensure that your tile will be even and straight. Once you have the straight edge, you can begin laying the first piece of subway tile, starting at the center point. When setting the tile, use a wet tile saw to cut each piece of subway tile to fit around any corners, edges or outlets you may have in your wall.
Use a notched trowel to spread an even layer of thinset mortar on the wall, making sure to get even coverage around the entire area. Carefully insert the tile in the thinset mortar and press down to ensure it’s fully secure.
Wipe off any excess thinset that may have oozed out of the joint, after you finish a section make sure each row of tile is level with a level. After the bottom row of subway tile is complete, you can then move onto the remaining rows.
Should you back butter subway tile?
Yes, it is generally recommended to back butter subway tile. Back buttering is the process of adding a thin layer of mastic adhesive to the back of tiles before installation. This helps to create a stronger bond between the tile and the substrate, filling any minor voids or cracks in the tile and providing a stronger, longer-lasting hold.
Subway tile is relatively fragile, so the extra layer of adhesive helps to protect it from any potential damages and warping. Additionally, back buttering will provide a more even and consistent look when it comes to the finished tile surface.
What happens if you wait too long to wipe grout?
If you wait too long to wipe grout, the grout sealer can dry and form a hard, thick coating on the grout surface. This coating prevents the new grout from properly adhering to the existing grout. Over time, this hard coating will eventually start to crack, and this could lead to water or moisture damage in the grout line or the overall tile installation.
Additionally, dirt, mildew, and mold can get stuck in the cracks, which will weaken the grout even further and lead to discoloration. In order to avoid these issues, it is important to wipe the grout as soon as possible after installation and sealing.
Furthermore, it is important to regularly, after installation, seal and clean all the grout lines to ensure that the grout remains healthy, strong, and capable of resisting penetration from moisture.
Should I grout between counter and backsplash?
Yes, grouting between the counter and backsplash is recommended. A grout will help complete the look of the design, as well as provide protection for the counter and backsplash from moisture and dirt.
The grout will also fill any gaps between the two surfaces, which could cause the backsplash to become less secure over time.
If the counter and backsplash were installed properly, the grout should be applied directly onto the wall, as well as onto the back of the tiles. This will provide a strong bond between the two surfaces and help ensure that the grout lasts for a long time.
It is important to select the correct grout for the project, as some grouts are not suitable for certain surfaces or conditions.
Once the grout is applied, it should be allowed to dry completely before the area is cleaned or the counter and backsplash are used. Also, it is important to use a sealer on the grout in order to make sure that it is properly sealed and protected against moisture and dirt.
Doing this will help make sure that the grout maintains its beautiful, clean look for years to come.
Do you need grout in between tiles for backsplash?
Yes, you need grout in between tiles for backsplash. Grout helps to fill the gaps between the tiles, creating a seamless look and helping to keep the tiles in place. Additionally, grout helps to seal and protect the tiles, ensuring that moisture, dirt and other debris don’t get in between the tiles and hurt their protective coating.
You’ll also want to make sure to use a grout that is designed for wet or humid areas, since the backsplash will be permanently exposed to water when doing dishes and cleaning. Take your time with grouting, as it’s an important step in a successful backsplash installation.
Can subway tile be butted together?
Yes, subway tile can be butted together. This is a popular way to install subway tile, especially when installing it on a wall. To butt the tiles together, you will need to use a razor blade to cut the tiles to size, making sure they fit snugly together.
You should also use spacers to ensure that the grout lines between the tiles are even. When the tile has been installed and the grout has dried, you can scrape away any excess grout with a putty knife.
Finally, to ensure the best result, it is important to use a good-quality grout sealer.