Tile Spacers & Wedges
Mind the Gap: Tile Spacers and Wedges
Whether you’re a seasoned tiler or a first-time DIYer, everyone needs a good set of tile spacers in their kit. No matter if you’re tiling a kitchen or a bathroom, all tiles lay better with the consistency of floor or wall tile spacers. Tilers Online also stocks tile levelling wedges, which work in tandem with tile spacers for the ultimate in tile levelling. Gone are the days when tile levelling spacers were considered ‘for novices’ — every good tiling pro should be using them.
What Is a Tile Spacer?
Tile spacers, otherwise known as tile gap spacers, are small t- or x-shaped plastic pieces that you position between tiles as you lay them. They help you maintain straight grout lines and a uniform distance between your tiles. There are various tile spacer sizes to choose from (usually between 1mm and 10mm), depending on the size of the grout joints you’re hoping to achieve. Adjustable tile spacers will make sure you always have the correct size for the job.
What Is a Tile Wedge?
A tile wedge is a small piece of plastic that you gently hammer into a tile spacer as part of a tile levelling system. This applies even pressure to the tile while it dries in the adhesive. Fashionable large-format tiles are more likely to bow, making tile levelling wedges all the more important.
Complete Your Tiling Kit
Now that you’ve found the right tile spacers and wedges for your job, it’s time to round out your kit with the wide range of tiling tools & equipment at Tilers Online. For big projects, you’ll need a tile saw, along with tile nippers and pliers for the smaller, trickier cuts. If you’re still concerned about getting a perfectly straight tile laying pattern, our tiling straight edges are helpful. From portable mixers to caulking tools, we stock all the parts and tools you need.
Shop with Tilers Online today and get your order shipped directly to your door, or click and collect from our warehouse in Caringbah. Tilers Online makes it easy to get the job done!
Frequently Asked Questions About Tile Spacers
What is the difference between tile spacers and tile wedges?
A tile spacer is a small t- or x-shaped piece of plastic that you slot between tiles to make sure they are the same distance apart, while a tile wedge helps apply even pressure across the surface of your tile to make sure they dry level. In comparison, a tile wedge is a small door-stop-shaped piece of plastic placed on the edges of your tiles; the narrow end hangs over into the middle of the tile, providing the levelling effect. You can use tile spacers without a wedge, but a tile wedge is always slotted into a spacer. In both cases, you’ll be using a device that helps you lay your tiles straight and evenly.
What are T spacers used for in tiling?
T spacers for tiles are used when you come across an area where you don’t need a cross-shaped spacer. Tile spacers (T-shaped) allow you to maintain a perfect offset where three tiles meet, ensuring your lines stay straight across the entire wall or floor.
What size tile spacers should I use?
The choice of tile spacers depends on your tile type and the desired aesthetic.
- 1.5mm to 2mm: Ideal for wall tiles or rectified porcelain.
- 3mm-4mm tile spacers: Popular for standard indoor floor tiles.
- 6mm tile spacers: Often used for outdoor pavers or when a more traditional, thick grout line is desired.
- 10mm tile spacers: Usually reserved for large-format natural stone or heavy-duty industrial flooring where wide tile gap spacers are required.
How many tile spacers do I need per square metre?
It depends on the size of your space and the size of tile spacers chosen. For measuring and layout accuracy, pair spacers with a quality tape measure and laser levels. Our team is happy to provide a guideline once you have your measurements.
Are tile spacers necessary for floor tiles?
Absolutely. Even on a flat surface, floor tile spacers prevent the tiles from "creeping" and ensure that your grout lines align perfectly from one side of the room to the other. Once your spacers are set and the adhesive is dry, you can finish the job using our professional grouting and floats and caulking tools for a water-tight, clean result.
Keep in mind that tile levelling wedges are also particularly important if you’re tiling a floor. Not only are unevenly levelled tiles a tripping hazard, but poorly levelled tiles are unable to evenly distribute stress — leading to cracking over time. Protect your highly trafficked areas with high-quality tile levelling systems.
Are tile spacers necessary for wall tiles?
Yes. Without tile spacers, the weight of the tiles will cause them to slide down the wall while the adhesive is wet.