Tile spacers are an inexpensive and reusable method for quickly and effectively spacing out new tiles during a tile installation project, like installing a new shower, replacing the tiles on the floor, or putting in a new backsplash. These T-shaped or cross-shaped objects make it easy to create uniform spaces between tiles, and they even come in several different sizes so that the gap between tiles can be increased or decreased according to your preference.
How to Use Tile Spacers
Keeping Tile Spacers in Good Condition
While many people think of tile spacers as disposable because of their inexpensive price and niche purpose, they are actually reusable if the spacers are removed in a timely fashion and properly cleaned and stored. After a tiling project has concluded, rinse the tile spacers to remove any remaining adhesive, then dry them off. The spacers can be kept safe in a bag, toolbox, compartment, or drawer in the workshop. In general, thin grout lines are easier to keep clean after installation because there isn’t as much surface area to trap dust, dirt, and debris. However, if the dimensions of the room, wall, or floor are slightly off, then thicker grout lines can help to hide some of the inconsistencies and give the project a more balanced appearance. Head to your local home improvement store and select the tile spacers that you need according to the width of the gap that you want between tiles. To figure out the number of spacers you need for the project, simply multiply the number of tiles by 4, then add about 10 percent extra to account for any discrepancies. Once the first tile is in place, you can start to position the surrounding tiles. Apply enough adhesive to the floor or wall for the next tile, then place the tile in an estimated position. Insert the tile spacers between the first tile and the second tile to correct the gap width and alignment of the tile. Keep in mind that, to get an even gap, you need to use at least two tile spacers along the edge of the tile. The tile spacers need to stay in place until the adhesive has had time to properly set so that the tiles do not become misaligned before the grout can be added. This typically takes about 20 to 30 minutes. Remove tile spacers by sliding a chisel, scraper, or flat-head screwdriver under the horizontal arm of the spacer and applying pressure to pop the tile spacer out of the gap. Most spacers will come out easily and can even be reused for future projects. If a spacer does get stuck, do not grout over and around the spacer: The grout won’t set properly, or if it does set it will crumble in a short period of time. Instead, use a chisel, scraper, or flat-head screwdriver to try and separate the spacer from the adhesive. Needle-nose pliers can also help to grip the spacer and pull it out of the gap. For the sake of simplicity and keeping the workshop organized, consider storing the tile spacers with any other tiling accessories, or put them into their own designated compartment or drawer in the workbench.
