What No One Tells You About Tile

Tile has a reputation for being one of the most exciting parts of a remodel—probably because it’s where the pretty happens. The colors, textures, patterns, and layout possibilities are endless. It’s the one detail that can instantly make a space feel elevated, intentional, and so you.

But here’s the truth: tile is about so much more than choosing a pretty pattern off Pinterest.

There are some very real, very un-glamorous decisions that can make or break the end result. And if no one is walking you through those choices before installation day, you might end up with a finished space that feels just a little… off. 

So let’s talk about what actually matters when it comes to tile.

Grout Color Can Make or Break the Look

Grout is the unsung hero—or quiet villain—of any tiled space. It’s not just a practical element. It defines the lines, controls the contrast, and totally impacts how the tile looks once it’s installed.

Here’s the deal:

• If you want a clean, seamless, modern look: choose grout that closely matches your tile.

• If you want to highlight the pattern or layout: go for contrast. 

Grout also impacts maintenance. Lighter grout tends to show dirt and discoloration more quickly, especially on floors or backsplashes near the stove. So think about not just how you want it to look, but how you want it to live.

Pro Tip: Plan grout like you plan tile. Don’t treat it as an afterthought—grout color impacts how bold, soft, or cohesive your tile ends up looking. Always choose grout after you’ve finalized your tile.

Tile Size Sets the Tone

Just like furniture scale and ceiling height, tile size contributes to the overall vibe of your space.

• Large format tiles (think 12"x24" or even bigger) create a clean, modern feel with fewer grout lines. They can make small rooms feel bigger and are great for bathrooms, laundry rooms, and even walls.

• Smaller tiles (like mosaics, penny rounds, or traditional 4"x4") often feel more classic, cozy, or detailed. These work beautifully in vintage-inspired spaces or to create a statement floor.

• Subway tile is its own category—so timeless and versatile it deserves its own blog post. But even here, size matters. Standard 3"x6" gives one look; longer or thicker subway tiles feel more updated and sleek.

Pro Tip: Don’t forget the layout! Staggered, herringbone, stacked, diagonal… the same tile can look totally different depending on how you lay it.

Always Order Extra—Seriously

Between cuts, pattern matching, and the occasional broken piece, you’ll almost always need more than the square footage says. And if you don’t have enough on hand, there’s no guarantee the manufacturer will have the same dye lot or batch available later.

The rule of thumb? Order 15 - 20% extra, depending on the complexity of the layout and number of cuts required.

For herringbone or diagonal layouts, err on the higher side. For simple stacked patterns, you might be okay closer to 10%. But always order more than you think. It’s a small investment upfront that can save you time, money, and major headaches.

Pro Tip: Keep a few leftover tiles stored away even after install. If you ever need to make a repair, you’ll be glad you did.

Bonus Truths That Don’t Get Talked About Enough

Since we’re being honest, here are a few more real-talk truths about tile:

• Tile is dusty. The install process is messy. Expect some chaos.

• Some tile is high maintenance. Handmade, porous, or unglazed tiles often require sealing and special cleaning products.

• Not all tile is right for every space. Some aren’t rated for floors. Some are slippery when wet. Some can’t handle freeze-thaw cycles outdoors. Make sure you’re picking tile that fits both your style and your space.

• Installers matter. A good tile installer can make budget tile look high-end. A poor installer can make designer tile look like a DIY fail.

So, What Should You Do?

Tile doesn’t have to be overwhelming—but it does deserve more attention than just grabbing what’s on sale at the big box store.

Here’s what I recommend:

1. Choose a tile you love and understand how it functions.

2. Ask about grout options early. Bring samples home.

3. Consider the vibe you’re going for, and match the tile size to it.

4. Order extra. You’ll never regret it.

5. Hire a qualified installer and check their references.

Tile can absolutely transform your space—but only if you make the right calls along the way.

So the next time you see a gorgeous tiled backsplash or bathroom floor on Instagram, just know: behind that beautiful photo is a whole lot of planning.

Need help choosing the right tile for your remodel? This is exactly the kind of decision I love walking my clients through. If you’re planning a remodel and feeling overwhelmed by selections, I’d be happy to help you make confident, beautiful choices that work for your real life.

Let’s design something that lasts—and looks just as good in person as it does in photos.

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