Rectified tiles have become increasingly popular in recent years due to their clean and uniform appearance. These tiles have undergone an additional manufacturing process to ensure that their edges are perfectly straight and sharp. However, many homeowners and professionals alike are unsure whether spacers are necessary when installing rectified tiles. In this article, we will explore the importance of spacers when working with rectified tiles and how they can impact the final result of your project.
Understanding Rectified Tiles
Before delving into the need for spacers, it is important to understand what rectified tiles are and why they are distinct from regular tiles. Rectified tiles are ceramic or porcelain tiles that have undergone additional machinery cutting to create precise and uniform dimensions. Unlike regular tiles, which may have slight variations in size and shape, rectified tiles are precisely cut to achieve standardized measurements.
Benefits of Rectified Tiles
Rectified tiles offer several advantages over regular tiles, which have contributed to their growing popularity. These benefits include:
- Aesthetics: The sharp and clean edges of rectified tiles create a sleek and modern look that can elevate the overall appearance of any space.
- Smaller Grout Lines: The uniform size of rectified tiles allows for smaller grout lines, resulting in a more seamless and polished finish.
- Versatility: Rectified tiles can be used for both floor and wall installations, making them a versatile choice for various projects.
- Easier Maintenance: The smooth and precise edges of rectified tiles make cleaning and maintenance a breeze, compared to tiles with uneven edges.
The Importance of Spacers
Despite the precise dimensions of rectified tiles, using spacers during installation is still highly recommended. Spacers are small plastic or rubber tools that help maintain consistent gaps between tiles before the grout is applied. Here are a few reasons why spacers are necessary, even with rectified tiles:
- Alignment: Rectified tiles may have uniform dimensions, but variations can still occur during the installation process. Spacers ensure that each tile is properly aligned and spaced, resulting in a symmetrical and professional-looking installation.
- Grout Compensations: When rectified tiles are installed without spacers, the absence of gaps can lead to a lack of space for grout. Grout is essential to protect tiles from movement and moisture, ensuring the longevity and stability of the installation. Using spacers allows for the appropriate space for grout to be applied, enhancing the durability of the tiled surface.
- Expansion and Contraction: All tiles, including rectified ones, are subject to expansion and contraction due to temperature and humidity changes. Spacers provide the necessary gap for this natural movement, preventing tiles from cracking or buckling over time.
- Visual Accuracy: Along with their practical benefits, spacers also ensure visual accuracy. They help maintain consistent gaps between tiles, resulting in a visually pleasing and professional-looking finish.
Choosing the Right Spacers
When working with rectified tiles, it is important to select the correct spacers to achieve the desired outcome. The size of the spacers should be based on the tile’s recommended grout joint width. Common spacer sizes range from 1/16 inch to 3/16 inch, but some manufacturers may recommend specific spacer sizes for their rectified tiles. It is crucial to consult the tile manufacturer’s guidelines to ensure the proper size and type of spacers are used.
While rectified tiles offer a range of benefits in terms of aesthetics and ease of maintenance, spacers are still crucial for a successful installation. Using spacers ensures proper alignment, allows for grout application, compensates for expansion and contraction, and contributes to a visually accurate final result. By following the manufacturer’s recommendations for spacer size and type, homeowners and professionals can confidently achieve a flawless installation with rectified tiles.