When it comes to tiling, one of the most overlooked factors is the difference in thermal expansion and contraction rates between the base layer, bonding layer, and ceramic tiles themselves. Over time—typically within 1-2 years—these differences can lead to stress on the coating, causing issues like tile bulging or cracking. According to industry data, if you have to re-paste tiles after such damage occurs, the cost can be as high as four times more than the original installation!
Professional tiling technicians emphasize that leaving proper seams during the initial installation not only helps save materials but also enhances the overall aesthetics of your space. Especially during winter installations, it's important to consider the "thermal expansion" effect that may occur in spring and summer. Properly planning the joint size is crucial to prevent future problems.
Experts recommend a joint width of 1mm to 3mm. This allows for a 3% material savings while making it easier to adjust brick spacing based on the actual area being tiled. This approach helps maximize the use of whole tiles at the corners, improving both the visual appeal and efficiency. It also saves time and money, especially when using tiles of different colors and patterns for large parquet-style installations. The joints help create a more natural color transition and make the pattern more noticeable. Additionally, they ensure that the tiles are neatly aligned, preventing misalignment caused by dimensional variations, which could otherwise affect the overall look of the tiling. They also help avoid issues like deformation, warping, hollow spots, or cracking due to differing shrinkage rates between the tiles and the surface they're installed on, reducing secondary waste.
According to the technician’s advice, it's best to leave a gap of 2-3mm when laying tiles. To prevent material waste, it's recommended to randomly select some tiles and perform a dry-fit test on the ground before applying adhesive. This helps identify any significant color mismatch, dimensional deviation, uneven gaps between tiles, or irregular chamfering. If the results after adjusting the tile positions aren’t satisfactory, it’s important to stop the installation immediately and contact the supplier for a replacement. Taking these steps ensures a better outcome and avoids costly mistakes down the line.
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