What Are The Best Tiles To Install For A Groutless Finish?

Selecting and installing tile is an exciting process — but the word "grout" might make some homeowners wince. While grout is typically used as a barrier for moisture and dirt, its porous nature also means it can accumulate dust, debris, and mildew, leading some designers to stray away from tile in certain areas altogether. However, don't be so quick to forgo the concept of tiling your space, even if the idea of cleaning grout or chunky cement lines between your slates is off-putting. Not only are there ways to minimize grout lines, but you can also opt for contemporary designs, like large-scale porcelain or pearl slates, that don't require any grout at all.

The first groutless option to consider is large-size rectified porcelain stoneware tiles. These large format tiles are installed edge-to-edge, creating a uniform effect. This means that the finished result will appear less like individual tiles and more like a grand stone slab. This is a matter of aesthetic preference, as the practical benefits of porcelain tile, like cleanliness, durability, and resistance to scratching, remain the same. If you're wondering how to lay tile without using grout, it is recommended by manufacturers to have an experienced contractor install the tiles. As with large-size porcelain stoneware tiles, a precise gap should be left between the slates prior to sealing to compensate for expansion or stress.

Beyond rectified porcelain stoneware tiles, another suitable material is mother of pearl tiles. While not all mother of pearl tiles are groutless, some brands, like Tile Club, offer options that can be installed seamlessly with no (or very little) grout required. For a more affordable alternative, you can purchase adhesive options, like the Diflart Peel and Stick Mother of Pearl Backsplash Tiles. Adhesive tiles are typically regarded as a short-term solution, but their lack of grout makes them simple to clean, and they can be replaced more easily than traditional tile.

If groutless tiles aren't an option for your space, there are other kitchen or bathroom floor trends to consider if you're sick of cleaning grout. Generally, choosing large tiles will result in less grout lines overall. However, they can come at a higher cost than smaller tiles. Luxury vinyl click flooring is tile made of vinyl rather than stone, but it can be a low-maintenance, groutless alternative for your surface. Finally, black grout can be a good idea for your home, too. Using thin lines of darker grout shows less dirt and grime over time. While this doesn't mean they shouldn't be cleaned regularly, discoloration can be less noticeable.