Have you heard the skinny? Thin tile is taking off as a popular new option for interior decor.
If you’re not up to speed, don’t worry — we’re reviewing everything you need to know about thin tile here.
First, What Is Thin Tile?
The official term for thin tile is gauged porcelain tile (GPT). These thin porcelain tiles can be manufactured in panels/slabs (GPTPS) that measure up to 10 x 15 feet, making them perfect to show off unique designs and looks that are mostly uninterrupted by grout lines.
There are two categories of GPT and GPTPS, 3.5-4.9mm thick and 5.0-6.5mm thick. Both are defined by the industry standard ANSI A137.3.
Because of their reduced thickness, gauged porcelain tiles are also lighter than traditional thickness tile, typically less than 4 lbs/ft2. The unique combination of large size and thin depth — plus porcelain’s inherent strength and durability — make ultra thin tile uniquely suited for a wide range of residential and commercial projects.
Where to Use Thin Tiles
The advantages of installing tile vertically or horizontally depend on the look you want to achieve.
Vertical tile draws the eye upward and visually elongates a space. This makes vertical tile ideal for drawing attention to a certain focal point or adding visual height to a room.
Similarly, horizontal tile can visually widen a space.
If you want to make a wide wall without much height feel taller, you might opt for a vertical layout. And if you want to widen a small space, a horizontal layout could help.
Another element to consider is creativity. Horizontal tiles may be more suitable for a traditional or classic look. But if you want something more unique, vertical tiles are trending with contemporary decor and have the versatility to coordinate with styles such as minimalism and boho.
Where to Use Thin Tiles
Thin tiles are a great choice for just about every surface, including the following applications.
Thin Tile Countertops
Thin porcelain tile makes a great countertop material because of its stain resistance, scratch resistance, and excellent durability. Not to mention that it comes in attention-grabbing designs and is free of the sustainability concerns associated with sourcing natural stone.
Thin Tile for Furniture
Ultra thin porcelain tile makes for gorgeous, durable furniture, including tables, desks, shelving, benches, and more. Plus, with gauged porcelain furniture, you’ve never had so many design options!
Thin Backsplash Tile
A thin tile backsplash is a great way to make a big impact with a small space — and often with just one XXL tile!
Thin Wall Tiles
Not limited to backsplashes, thin porcelain tiles can also span across a wall (or, say, all the walls in your home). Thin wall tile is a popular choice to create statement or accent walls and can also be chosen to match or contrast with your flooring and other surfaces.
Thin Floor Tile
The installation standard for GPT (ANSI A108.19) provides specifications for the installation of tiles 5.0-6.5mm on floors. Gauged porcelain tile flooring can be used for residential and commercial projects, creating a unique style that’s also easy to maintain.
Thin Shower Tiles
While tile mosaics have been the go-to for showers, thin porcelain panels/slabs for shower walls are on the rise. Who wouldn’t want to be immersed in dreamy floor-to-ceiling looks such as the one above?
Thin Tile Facades
Gauged porcelain can even be used for building facades. In addition to offering more design versatility than traditional building materials, thin tile can protect buildings from inclement weather and offers both acoustic and thermal insulation.
Elevate Your Design With the Lightest Tile Out There