Standard Subway Tile Sizes

One aspect that makes designing with subway tile so simple is the 1 2 height to length ratio and it used to be that a standard subway tile was 3 x 6 with many variations now we tend to think of subway tile as any smaller format rectangular shaped tile.

Standard subway tile sizes.

A quick internet search of subway tile will garner a myriad of sizes. The classic subway tile layout has stuck around since they debuted over a century ago becoming the most popular choice for residential kitchens and bathrooms until today. The 3x6 size is the most common subway tile size. Subway tile is used on bathroom walls kitchen or bathroom backsplashes showers and tub surrounds.

The classic 1 2 ratio is pleasing to the eye. In general there is more size variation in larger sized handmade tiles so they need a bigger grout joint for that to become less noticeable and for a more even installation. However sizes for subway tile have expanded to include many other sizes. Not only does subway tile come in a wide array of materials but there is also a large selection of different sizes available.

While 3 x 6 is the standard size subway tiles come in other sizes such as 2 x 4 4 x 6 and even 3 x 12 among other dimensions. The standard size for glass and. It s very popular size for kitchen backsplashes. While the original tiles are still as popular today subway tiles now come in a variety of sizes that mimic the original rectangular proportions such as 1x2 or 4x8.

The choice for one size over another could be due to personal visual preference room size type of project or even architectural requirement. 2 x 4 4 x 8 6 x 12. In showers especially with a contrasting grout color this smaller size can look a bit busy. It is rarely if ever used as floor tile.

Standard 3 x 6 subway tile. The smallest size tile that can be called true subway tile is 3 inches high by 6 inches wide. Subway tile is easily identified by its 1 2 aspect ratio height to width. A typical backsplash is 18 tall giving you an even 6 rows of tile.

Once you ve decided on the pattern and shape you re ready to start installing. Sometimes tiles that are not 1 2 but still have a smaller rectangular shape are considered subway tile as well like a 4. The general rule is any wall tile with a 1 to 2 size can be styled as a subway tile. However if you want to stick to the most authentic subway look find tile that measures 3 inches by 6 inches or at least something that has a 1 2 ratio.

Today s tile manufacturers offer old school subway tiles in a range of colors and materials such as glass or stone and finishes that range from matte to glazed to high gloss. Traditionally subway tile is 3 x 6 inches.