Definitely bigger than 1/16", Landscape Architects & Landscape Designers, Outdoor Lighting & Audio/Visual Specialists. Rectified tile with 1/16 grout spacer. YjBmMjc3MWMwNWRlY2RhYjRlZDNkZmJiNjcwZmM5YmNkYmUxN2VhZTc2ZDdj . 4 in: Product Thickness (mm) 5 mm: Product Width (in.) A subway tile has a traditional and standard size of 3 x 6 inches. Oh! Generally, if youre working with wider grout lines (1/4 or larger) youll want to use larger spacers (4mm, 5mm, or 6mm). I found this zombie thread very helpful. The size of grout lines for subway tile is largely determined by the size of the tile and personal preference. So, to even out the irregularities in the shape and size of the tiles, grout can be used. The width of this line makes a very noticeable difference in the final appearance. Heres a simple subway tile update: Use small tiles to create a subway tile mosaic. Made of ceramic tile, subway tile is known for both its durability and its timeless style. NmY2NDFkNTBiYTFiN2U5MDIxZjgyYjdiOTRlYzA0YTljN2VjZWRhYzhiNmM3 You may have even fallen in love with a specific subway tile design yourself; and if not, you certainly have the tools and know-how to design the perfect subway tile for your home. Can you use grout to fix a crack in a tile? It is recommended for certain applications such as for swimming pool areas, steam rooms and spas. Calacatta Gold Beveled Marble Subway Tile 3X6 SKU: TCFCT8836BPA 6 $39.90 per sq. For smaller grout lines (3/16 or smaller) youll want to use smaller spacers (1mm, 2mm, or 3mm). You can remedy this by using caulk, Copyright 2023 HouseholdFAQ | Powered by Astra WordPress Theme. Ceramic tile is flame-resistant, so you neednt worry about heat or flame harming your tile. Can I add grout to new shallow grout joints? Tile Shown: Crater Lake 3x12 // Design: The Perennial. Approximate Tile Size: 4x16: Product Length (in.) Some cuts can be made with a score and snap method using a snap cutter and others may require a wet saw. Our space is 1/16th of an inch and still not grouted as yet. Their whole purpose is to be of the same size and shape to prevent any measuring error. Adjust grout consistency by adding more powder or water. Here you'll see a wider grout joint giving the brick a uniform appearance. Copyright 2017 Why Tile. The closer you install handmade tile together, the more apparent the size variation will become as shown below. Glass has clean edges allowing for a tight install. Let's Talk About Grout Size Options Finished grout lines will vary from 1/16" to 3/16". What happens if grout lines are too small? [Related: Bathroom and Kitchen Backsplash Tile: Your Comprehensive Guide]. MGZiMDdlNTcwOTFjNjk0ZGIwM2ZiZmFmYTVmODM2NzE0YmYzYTg1MTQxNGQ0 Now you know what size spacers to use for 36 subway lines. Lastly, tiles can move more freely when the grout lines are too small, as they have less support between adjacent tiles. The XT is supposed to be more stain resistant (than other grouts? Grout absorbs movement from the natural contraction and expansion your tiles will experience from temperature and humidity changes. Free samples available online.Get the look for less! Stress from home settling may also be an issue with little grout space. Nonetheless, people prefer thin grout lines anyway as they ensure that more area gets covered with tile as they are the major showpiece. More logical option when it is the matter of cheap tiles. ), so hopefully our white grout will be less likely to discolor (since it looks so pretty right now!). Glass Tile Shown: Rosy Finch Matte 4x12 // Design: Project M plus, Oh Joy // Image: Bethany Nauert. For example, floor installations should consider using larger grout lines for more traction. The size of the grout lines should be decided prior to tiling, as the grout lines will affect the overall look of the tiled surface. (3X6 subway) I liked the way someone here had used light gray, but I love the look of white grout also. However, one potential downside to using smaller grout lines is that they are more difficult to work with, as the smaller joints more quickly fill with grout and require more precise work. Also, if you are not a big fan of grout lines, then only use rectified tiles from a reputable company in your project. I don't want a big grout line. received a comment from another Garden Webber that since Heath tiles are handmade then I have to go with a 1/4" grout line. Some tiles come with designs on them that make sense only when put together continuously. MDg4NTMwMTBjZmVlYTM0MzU5NTAzNTIxOGFjYmY1ZWI5MTY1MzllNDkxMzIy NmY2NDBlY2Q0NmRlYjRhOTM4MmZiNzk4ZWJmODkwODE2MWJjMjM2Yzg4NDRm If you are thumbs up for grout lines, then the next thing you need to consider is the width and color of the lines. Plastic spacers are typically the least expensive, while metal and rubber spacers are more durable and have a longer lifespan. Beveled subway tile creates a three-dimensional tile design with sloped edges and a protruding surface. However, the actual finished grout spacing will vary from 1/8" to 1/4" if 3/16" spacers are used. Since grout ensures a sturdy build to the tiles, cheap and frail tiles cannot be installed with a thin grout line. Appointments recommended for best service. , project summary Select the right grout for the job. Grout serves two major functions: Many people who like tile dont like large, deep grout lines. Ummmmno, Only your single post. Thanks for the tips everyone!! In such cases, thin grout lines are our only option. it would be way to big and clunky looking. The size of grout lines for tile is something that comes up with just about every tile installation and is a question we are asked almost every day. Large format tile - 18 X 18 inches and larger. ZTgxZjcyNWM2OWRlODhhMTA5YTY5ZTgwMjcxZThmNmY3NjNjMWZiZjFjYTI5 The answer: They were first used in New York subway stations. If smaller spacers, like 1/8", are used it will accentuate the size difference of handmade tile. A porcelain tile rated for heavy foot traffic will have different clay than a decorative ceramic wall tile. Rectified vs. o.k.hubby is in the kitchen right now getting ready to set tile.it's a tumbled 3 x 6 travertine, and we are going with 1/16 grout lines, are you telling me that's a mistake??? A 24x48 tile needs a 3/16 grout line, but a 3x6 subway tile can be set with a smaller line. Although this gives an elegant medieval look to your fireplace or chimney, it also has a few drawbacks which can be overcome by adopting a tiling plan that favors grout lines. Good luck! We recommend a 1/16" grout size for our Glass Tile. This is what our research found. At first glance, this white subway tile backsplash appears quite similar to the traditional white subway tile design, but its subtle marble veining adds a luxurious twist. The Flexcolor is premixed and the color is accurate throughout. If you believe Wordfence should be allowing you access to this site, please let them know using the steps below so they can investigate why this is happening. YzM2ZjliODIzZGZiNzhlYzdlMGZmNDE1ZmQzZGZlNGQ5NjRmMTNiMWRjZmY1 A horizontal herringbone < or > pattern creates movement horizontally rather than vertically. Terms of Service I'm sure the shower is water tight, but it. I just went for the classic 3 x 6 size glossy white ceramic tile - mine are AKDO brand that I got through a local tile dealer! You can also do the opposite and go with larger-than-average subway tiles. So I definitely want a white grout without any gray or off-white tinge. If your tiles are larger than 2 inches, you should use a 1/8-inch spacer. [Related: Tile Color Psychology: How Your Tile Color Affects Your Mood]. The size of your tile should be considered when choosing a grout size. Certain materials, such as porcelain and glass tiles, may require a wet saw. For example, if youd like a more seamless look, you may opt for a thinner grout line. My rule of thumb is that if the tiles are very flat and consistent in size, the tighter the grout line should be. What are the dimensions of subway tile? Without grout, messes and germs can slip through the cracks and cause problems. Where is the tile being used? But then, if you are using larger tiles (6x12 inches), a 1/4-inch size spacer would be a good option, too. The Tile Council of North America and accompanying tile organizations recommend an average grout joint width of 3/16 inch for every 1/16 inch variation in the size of the tiles. Consider researching the details, such as how to install subway tile backsplash corners or how to tile a shower niche with subway tile. Too small of grout lines can lead to inadequate contraction of the grout, which will make it more prone to cracking and damage. Most tiles have grooves on the sides so most probably you wont need any. The sizes of the grout can make all the difference in your space. Bring your dream look to life with our big floor tiles. Just like in the original New York subway station, entire walls can show off your subway tile. This is also a great choice on wall tiles as it can draw your eye upwards and make a space appear larger. So, they will not rub against each other or leave any gap in between. But I'm sure you'll be getting lots more input from others with more exerience. Privacy Policy NzI2ZTJiODAyNjVhZTQxNjU4MDEzODFhN2YwZTdkODg2ODJmNmFlZjQ3NTNi All of our Handpainted collections feature this type of edge. Hi, everyone! This has the added benefit of helping to hide size and shape differences in these tiles. MWNhZWM0YzkxZDI5Mzg5NTI1NWY1NTFmMjhkYzM2YWQ4NmU0MWRkZTlmNDYy However, any rectangular tile with 1-to-2 dimensions can work as subway tile, with other subway tile sizes including 2 x 4, 4 x 8, and 6 x 12. Another way to make your subway tile unique: Choose a subway tile with a textured surface. Since it is a 3x 6-inch subway tile, it has a grout joint of 1/16 inch. Tile shown: French Linen 3x6 // Design: Karen Tsay // Photos: David Tsay. There is an appearance of fine finishing with grout lines, which is quite blunt without these lines. Has anyone noticed that? Insist on the look you want. PS The subway tile is handmade tile (Waterworks/Architectonics line) so I guess they are not completely uniform. I am happy the grout line is that small. The smallest grout line that is recommended for use in a backsplash is 1/8 inch. Instead, the thickness of your grout joint should be based on a number of factors including tile size, the amount of variation in the tile, and your desired style or aesthetic. How do you clean subway tile? Generally, for larger subway tiles (3"x6" or 4"x8"), grout lines that are 1/8" wide are recommended to avoid over-emphasizing the lines of the tile. A small 3x6 tile can be set with a 1/16 or 1/8 line, while a mid-size tile like 6x12 or 13x13 would be better with an 1/8 grout line. A better option is to choose subway tiles in the color or pattern that you desire. I would like 1/16, but the tile is too uneven for that it seems. The actual grout joint size should be equal to three times the variance in actual tile facial dimensions. LoLauren--I like the look of your tiles and that's how I would like mine to be as well. Add water to grouting powder in the manufacturer-recommend ratio. How long does it take to install subway tile? The soaking ability of the grout prevents long-term rusting or tarnishing of the tiles. Epoxy vs. Cement Grout What's the Difference? shaker style on old beveled cabinet doors. 3 x 6 inch subway tiles typically have grout joints of 1/16 inch, but 1/8 inch grout joints are also common. Step inside social media darling Our Places retail store on Melrose Ave and youll feel like you Our dedicated trade services are here to make your design come to life. I thought I read that on some earlier postings here. Yes, grout lines can be too big. Large tiles are perfect for opening up smaller floor spaces or creating a seamless design across open plan flooring. Ultimately, it comes down to preference, so you can adjust the grout line size depending on the look youre going for. Therefore, it is important to take care to use the right amount of mortar when back buttering subway tile. Large grout lines, around 1/2 or more, were used to camouflage these irregularities. All Floor Tiles; Non Slip Tiles; Wood Effect; Quartz Tiles; Outdoor Floor Tiles; Vintage Tiles; . The grout just serves the purpose of binding the tile surface together for sturdiness and for easier cleaning. All-white bathrooms were common during the Victorian era, since they reserved plain tiles for the less visible areas of the home. Grout seals up the space between tiles so that dirt and spills stays on the surface where they can be easily cleaned up. YjdhZmI0ZDExZTkwNTIwY2MyMTVlYzlmNTc2ZGMyMDI4OTIyYzhjYTdiYzU4 Dark-colored grout and tiles are preferred when one does not have time for constant maintenance or has pets or kids in their house. Tiles can give your walls and floor a very classy look and are very easy to maintain. @tracynz, I think abbycat said 1/8" up higher in the comments. Some popular subway tile patterns include 50% offset, offset, offset, Grid, Herringbone. Just make sure there is minimal contrast between the tile and the grout color. What if you called Ann Sacks or Heath Ceramics and asked them what size grout line they recommend? So with that in mind - should I just go with white? We have to chalk it up to the inherent timelessness of the subway tile design. After the tiles are fixed, the joints need to be grouted to fill in the gaps, hide any ugly cuts at the edge and add a contrasting or . You all have such beautiful subway tile. Also, grout size should be considered when there is a difference in the angle of a surface. One of the most serious issues is the weakening of the grout, which can lead to water penetration and the formation of mold. Often, this means altering the layout pattern itself. Simply call, chat, or fill out our Design Assistance Form and one of our talented Design Consultants will get back to you shortly. With the Flexcolor I would use 1/16th spacers but remember it will give you a larger grout line as the tile itself already has 1/16 built into it. Because subway tile typically has 1-to-2 dimensions, you can use the short side of a tile to determine the middle point of the long side. Using a staggered tile transition, you can transition your tile design to another subway tile color, another tile shape, or another material altogether. However, if youre going for an old world, farmhouse, or Mediterranean design, especially with hand crafted-looking tiles, a wider 3/16 grout line will give you that vintage aesthetic. This maintains the ceramic tiles look and allows for a proper seal between each tile which prevents moisture damage, shifting, and cracking. Ultimately, there are multiple factors to consider when choosing between grout lines, and the decision should be tailored to the individual application to ensure the best results. NGUxYTFmYTU2ZWVmZjZlOGNhZjdiMWVmZDRmYzdmYjA4OWY2OTcwOGU5MzIy Not creamy, and not off-white. if you want a standard look, tile installers recommend grout lines of 1/16 inch for walls and 1/8 inch for floors. The traditional white subway tile design looks great in just about any kitchen or bathroom, with options to customize your subway tile backsplash design to your space. For example, sanded grout will leave a rougher finish and is available in sizes from to the largest size of . Subway tile doesnt have to be monochromatic, either: Natural looks (marble, granite, wood, and more) and patterns (think graphic designs, florals, and Art Deco-inspired prints) look great with subway tile. Adding tile accents is another way to make your subway tile unique. Pressed tile with 1/16 grout spacer. Of course, today, white subway tile is shown off rather than hidden away! However, modern interpretations of subway tile often take liberties with this pattern, or even abandon it altogether. Take note of the sizing difference and the accuracy with reference to squareness. Were here to help! If youre setting tiles on an 18 tall, 6 wide kitchen backsplash, you dont need as much wiggle room as a 10x20 floor. You can get away with smaller grout lines in a smaller space, even with the same tile. I should let OverlyOptimistic know that he/she was misinformed. The grout should also never be wider than the thickness of the tile to ensure stability of the installation. We had contractor do epoxy for bathroom #1 and Quartzlock 2 urethane for bathroom 2. MGQ1MjljZmYxMDMzNTFjOGFlMTI4MjQ5NTI4YjI4MzZhNTdhNjJkYjQxZTA1 These tiles arent technically subway tiles but the look is reminiscent. NjM1YjMwMmY5OTVmMGU2MmZhNDI5OTIzY2MxMTA5ZGI5OWFlOTNkNTVmNDA1 ZDg3YzAzMDJkZDM1OGYwNmRmMmY0YTgzZDFmODZmMWU5ZDhjOWJlYmI1Njc1 Alternative subway tile patterns include a one-third offset and a one-fourth offset. N2JjNTNlNWM2OWRlYzY1MDVjMzNmMGEyMzYzYjA2N2FiZjRhMDMyOTYyZGQ0 This was my first DIY tile job ever, so I'm glad it doesn't look too horribly clunky. Depending on your selection, their Classic Field tile has different degrees of color variation, but it is in these color variations that a sense of depth, warmth and visual interest is found. Besides being low maintenance and durable, subway tile showers have a refined and modern look to them that will never go out of style. When it comes to style, youll want to choose a spacer that will work with the design of your tile. Safe for most types of stone, ceramic tile, and grout. Here is a link that might be useful: {{!gwi}}. When determining what color grout to use with subway tile, consider whether you want to draw attention to the layout pattern or not. Our tiles looked very different before the white grout was added. Looks fabulous! The determination of the width and color depends on a handful of factors in which some are self-explanatory ones. If you cant choose just one color for your subway tile, multicolor subway tile is for you. The term subway tile typically refers to rectangular tiles (usually 3 x 6 inches) laid horizontally with a 50% offset. For subway tile, how big should grout lines be? High-moisture areas (such as shower walls) benefit from cement board backers to improve long-term durability. In addition, it is the best option for areas where precision installation is required such as for backsplashes and kitchen walls. Depending on your design, you may also want to opt for color-coordinated spacers to pair with the color of your grout and tile. Subway tile with high-contrast grout emphasizes the pattern, whereas subway tile with matching grout creates a seamless look. Why should I seal the grout on my tile floor? This way, the tiles do not lose their luster, and frequent wiping is not necessary. Victorians prioritized hygiene, so easy-to-clean, stain-resistant, and bacteria-resistant ceramic tile was a natural choice. Some tiles are irregular by design, not subpar manufacturing. The presence or absence of a grout line makes a significant difference in the final appearance of the tiled surface. Before installing your tile, we suggest you do a dry layout to determine where your cuts will be needed. Shop online and get free delivery on orders over 300. MSI Quartz Quality - Everything You Need to Know. Before the technological advancements of modern tile making, porcelain and ceramic tiles were highly irregular (some cheaply-made modern tiles still are). How big should grout lines be for subway tile? The use of 1/4 tile spacers is recommended for almost all types of ceramic and porcelain tile installations. -----END REPORT-----. Tile trowels come in many shapes and sizes, generally starting out from a 3/16 v-notch up to the 1/2 square notch. Once grouted, the line between the pressed tiles will look larger than the same sized line between the rectified tiles. Tuscan Seam Clips with built-in 3/16 spacers, 1/8" grout line up top, 1/16" on the bottom, Rectified tiles with clean 1/16" grout lines, OVER 100,000 TILE OPTIONS. Today, subway tiles popularity continues to grow. White subway tile: White vs light Grey Grout. How big is the tile? All in all, determining the proper width of the grout line is necessary. Additionally, excessively small grout lines are not very aesthetically pleasing, as they can give the appearance of fillers or a continuous pattern, rather than a separate, unique tile. MWQ4ZGU3YmYwMDc5OGRlN2MxYjZkYjg3MmU3ZmM2OTVmYzRkODUyOWFiYWIw Subway tiles are traditionally laid in a 50% offset, meaning that the middle of the tile aligns with the edges of the two tiles above or beneath it. Lastly, always refer to the manufacturers instructions for recommendations on how to use the grout size and type relevant to your project. For example, if you use 1/8-inch spacers you need to ensure every space has a 1/8-inch spacer in between them. On the other hand, if youd like a more classic look with more visible grout lines, then you may decide to go with wider grout lines. MTYwNTkwMDhiMDliMTk0NTZhNDY4YjUwN2UwMGJjNmEzZWVjZGZjYjc3ZDQ2 Turn your subway tile on its side to create a vertically offset or stacked pattern. (If there's any variation at ALL, you don't want to use 1/16") The MOST you should need is 1/4". When the grout is used in fixing tiles, it can form a visible line framing them if there is some space given in-between these tiles. We recently used TEX XT grout in Bright White--#910 in our bathrooms, and it looks very white. Using plain white rectangle tiles and a simple tile layout, subway tile has managed to create a design thats equally impactful and easy to achieve. For regular-format tiles, between 12 by 12 and 16 by 16 inches, you can stay with those measurements or go up to 3/16, depending on the tile and the look you want. No-sheen, non-slippery finish. Pressed tiles are shaped and then fired. Copyright 2023 Why Tile. Your access to this site was blocked by Wordfence, a security provider, who protects sites from malicious activity. This is especially the case for walls but will depend on the look you are aiming for with your tiling. Why use old-fashioned giant grout lines in the first place? Your email address will not be published. Generated by Wordfence at Mon, 1 May 2023 13:43:09 GMT.Your computer's time: document.write(new Date().toUTCString());. The size of grout lines for subway tile is largely determined by the size of the tile and personal preference. When using thinner grout lines, unsanded grout is recommended and works better with more delicate tile surfaces like ceramic and glass. Options include adding a border to the top or bottom of your subway tile application (top left), adding a focal point (top right), or adding accent tiles between the subway tiles themselves (below). I used a 1/16 grout line. I'm ready to order the tiles and need to order them asapthis worried me a bit though. To help you out, we've put together a list of considerations and an overview of options to help you choose the right grout size for your project. On the other hand, darker grout can be a great way to accentuate the tile and make it stand out. Its sanitary appearance and health benefits meant that it was soon being used anywhere hygiene was a concern, including kitchens and bathrooms. If grout lines are too big, the tiles can appear to be spaced far apart from each other, making the entire surface look less cohesive and more unappealing. Here's a pre grout pic of 4x10 tile with 1/8 space between tiles. The middle of each tile should line up with the edges of the two tiles above and beneath it. To really mix things up, take the traditional subway tile layout and rotate it by 45 degrees and youll have a diagonal pattern. Our subway tiles are a bright, cool white. This is especially important for Glass tile installations as glass is more sensitive to stress cracking than ceramic tile. @abbycat9990 - what color grout did you go with? This is especially the case for walls but will depend on the look you are aiming for with your tiling. It cannot be used in tiles having a put-together puzzle kind of design as the break-in continuity may turn the design unsightly. It is also important to consider the grouts staining capabilities as different grout sizes can help increase the desired visual effect in a space. Without grout, your tiles could buckle and come loose. Yes, it is recommended to back butter subway tile before applying it to a surface. When it comes to thickness, our ceramic tiles are ~5/16" thick; our brick is ~1/2" thick, and our glass tile is ~1/4" thick. kellythompson - this is a NINE year old thread. But if you want something funky and different and you have big walls, then you can always experiment. I can't believe I ever considered not getting ceramic subway tile as it is so nice. Tile shown: Diamond Escher in Adriatic Sea // Design: The Inside Story Design // Photos: Jennifer Siu-Rivera. Subway tile is traditionally 3 x 6 inches and this is the most popular size of subway tile. A large tile, such as 12x24", usually requires a 3/16" grout line, so it's best to check the manufacturer's recommendations to see how small you can go. I'm SO relieved. OWVmNDU4NTc2MDVhNDNmZjlhYTFiNDZiYjYwYWQ1MGJmNGU3ZGEwMmM3ZDdk I just got off the phone with them and they handmade tiles are done 1/8 to 3/16!! FIND YOUR TILE. Nope. With tiles set outside, such as on a patio or porch, youll need wider grout lines to accommodate the more dramatic temperature changes your tile can experience. Ultimately, the size of grout lines will largely depend on the type of tile, the desired look, and the practicality of the application. How do I seal the grout on the subway tiles? The Bright White looked just slightly yellow-ish to me sometimes. ZWY1NTA0YTZkMTAyNWZhNWQxNjEyNDAwZmJiZGNiN2NmNTNhZjI5NTUwNDkx Handmade or rustic subway tiles do require a larger grout line and a sanded grout. A rectified edge allows for smaller grout lines because the tile has been more precisely cut (unlike our other handmade tiles). is 1/8", the actual grout joint will need to be 3/16". MTg3NTA0OTNlM2FlNzBhZjVkYTY5ZTc1MmE1MzJiNDc5NjczMTg0YzkzNTNj Escher Smoke mosaic with Dimensions Onyx glass grout. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. YjBlMzBhOTgxYjcxYjVmNGE5OTRkMmQwZDEyZWMwMmNkMzc2MzM0NzIxMThi She also said to take my two samples at home and see how close they can be butted up together. I'd try to minimize those lines in a backsplash particularly for scrubbing reasons. Type and size of the tile; Grout line size for marble and natural stone tiles; Subway Tile Spacing; Subway Tile with no-spacing; Grout joints for large format (1224) tiles; The simple way to figure grout lines for 1224 tiles; The skill of the person installing the tile; How to Calculate the Right Grout Joint Size (according to the tile . N2M5OWFkNTgxYzhkMWVmNmUwMjk4MzEwZDZjYmNmNDUzYTE2NTA1N2UyNGFm Generally speaking, many people prefer to grout that is lighter than the tile color, as this helps create a cohesive look and makes the tile look more uniform. You can go up by 3/16 inches if you use regular sized tiles that range from 16 by 16 to 12 by 12 inches, depending on the overall look you want. Hope that helps! Some homeowners prefer to go a little wider and longer and there are many options if you do decide you want large subway tile such as 4 . If you are still thinking that what size spacers should be used for 36 subway lines, then my advice is to try spacers. It can fill the gaps and voids formed in the process of laying the tiles. A tight, 1/8" grout space will allow the pattern to flow nicely from one tile to the next. NWY4YjJhMzY3MzA4NDJjNmVlZDE5NmNiZDg0ZTAyNDdmMDljN2EyYzZmNTcx First, establish which tiles you must use for your house and then decide on a fitting grout line according to the chosen tile size and shape. If you set a pressed tile and a rectified tile with the same size grout line, the rectified tiles grout line will appear smaller. Contractors will do whatever is easiest or "standard"- thicker grout lines.