Question 1

What is subway tile?

Accepted Answer

When someone refers to tile as subway tile, they are usually referring to a style of tile that is rectangular with 1-2 dimensions. The most typical size of subway tile is 3x6 inches, but 4x8 inches and 6x12 inches are popular sizes as well. Subway tile is often laid horizontally, but it can be laid vertically and in a herringbone pattern as well.

Question 2

What are the most popular type of subway tiles?

Accepted Answer

According to design experts at Forbes, ceramic backsplash tiles are the most popular option among homeowners. Ceramic tiles are easy to clean, more affordable, and stylish. Moreover, they came in a huge variety of shapes, colors, sizes, and finishes for ultimate customization.

Question 3

Is subway tile made of porcelain or ceramic?

Accepted Answer

The beauty of subway tile is that it is available in both porcelain and ceramic. Although both are durable, porcelain subway tiles are more hardwearing and dense than ceramic subway tiles. Nevertheless, the most popular style of subway tile is ceramic because it has a variety of styles and is easy to install and maintain.

Ceramic and porcelain subway tiles are ideal for walls because they are impervious to moisture, stain resistant, and repel odors and harmful bacteria. These features also mean that you can install subway tile on shower walls.

Question 4

Why is it called subway tile?

Accepted Answer

The backstory behind the name for subway tiles is pretty straightforward. The name originates from the classic layout of wall tile found in New York Subway stations. As early as 1904, the look was achieved by designers who wanted to create a space for public transit riders that was both bright and simple. The style has gained popularity thanks to the influence of New York and looks amazing in homes as well.

Question 5

How can I install a subway tile backsplash?

Accepted Answer

Subway tiles are relatively simple to install. They are great options for both professionals and people looking to DIY. Installing a subway tile backsplash is usually done horizontally using grout. The tiles get their unique appearance by being laid 50% offset from the tiles above creating a staggered result that’s visually interesting.

While subway backsplash tile is most often used in kitchens, the look is equally appealing in bathrooms. It brings a refreshed look that will match well with other patterns of tile and wallpaper.

Question 6

Do you need spacers between subway tiles?

Accepted Answer

Most styles of subway tile come with grooves on their sides that help create spacing. The groves of the subway tile allow for a natural 1/16” grout to lie between the tile's sides. If you are unfamiliar with spacing for subway tiles and subway tile backsplashes, you can use spacers to help guide you along the installation.

Question 7

Is subway tile hard to maintain?

Accepted Answer

Subway tiles are very easy to keep clean. If your tile is ceramic, you will only need a mixture of water, mild dish soap, and maybe some vinegar to maintain them. Cleaning your tiles at regular intervals is important to make them look like new and to remove buildup properly.

Once a week, we recommend combining your cleaning mix into a spray bottle and spritz your subway tile backsplash. Then,  immediately wipe them clean with a soft material cloth. If you don’t have a cloth, a clean towel or paper towels will also help remove grime.

Question 8

Why are my subway tiles cracking?

Accepted Answer

There could be several reasons why your subway tile is cracking. Most often, cracked subway tiles result from improper installation or the tile supporting more weight than it can bear. If that's not the reason, you could have an issue with the damaged substrate (the wall or floor surface under the tile). It could also be a matter of the tile being exposed to extreme changes in temperature, which loosens the grouting and adhesive.  Lastly, if you drop something heavy onto your tile or strike it with a hard object, the tiles can crack.

Question 9

Should you seal subway tiles?

Accepted Answer

Subway tiles made of porcelain or ceramic usually do not require sealing. However, the grouting around the tile can benefit from having a sealant applied. Sealing your grout will ensure that water, oil, and dirt are not absorbed and assist in preventing the tiles from cracking or coming loose.

Question 10

What size subway tile makes a room look bigger?

Accepted Answer

Standard 3x6 subway tiles will not make a room appear bigger or smaller. The main aspect of subway tile that can impact how large or small a room looks is color. White subway tile and other light shades will make small rooms look larger. Black subway tiles in small rooms may have the opposite effect.

Question 11

What is the best pattern for subway tile?

Accepted Answer

There really is no best pattern for subway tile. The ideal way to lay your tile will rely on the finished look you desire. Horizontally laid subway tiles provide a classic result, while laying them vertically or in a herringbone pattern is more visually dynamic.

Question 12

Is matte or glossy subway tile better?

Accepted Answer

Whether you decided to decorate with matte subway tile or glossy subway tile is entirely up to you. The look of matte tile is great for a more subtle and rustic look, while glossy subway tile will provide more sheen and reflect more light to add brightness to your space. Practically, glossy subway tile is easier to clean and moisture-resistant.

Question 13

Is subway tile out of style?

Accepted Answer

No, in fact, subway tile is extremely popular in 2023. Subway tile has a very classic look that is great for a clean modern motif. Subway tiles come in shades that are perfect for both minimalist and maximalist styles of interior design.

Question 14

What backsplash tile never goes out of style?

Accepted Answer

The most timeless styles of backsplash tile are those that provide a clean canvas for decorative accents. White subway backsplash tile, gray subway backsplash tile, and other subway tiles in neutral shades are considered timeless.

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