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When considering the types of grout for your project, unsanded grout is the best choice for penny tile. Unsanded grout can fit better into narrow spaces, like those between the small penny tiles, and it’s easier to smooth out for a seamless finish. However, if you’re unsure, check with a tile installation pro to determine which grout is best for your specific project.

To make a bathroom look bigger, choose light-colored, medium- to large-format tiles. Light colors such as white, cream, or light gray make a space feel more open, while dark colors, busy patterns, and small tiles can make a bathroom feel smaller. It may seem counterintuitive, but small tiles can shrink a room visually due to the increased number of grout lines. Using medium- to large-format tiles creates a more seamless look. For the best effect, pair your light-colored tiles with a matching or similarly colored grout. This minimizes the grid-like pattern and gives the floor and walls a more continuous, uninterrupted appearance, helping the room feel significantly larger.

The number of boxes of tile you need depends entirely on the amount of tile in each box or case. Different manufacturers package their tiles differently, and boxes contain different amounts of tile depending on the size, shape, and material. Often, the amount of area that a case will cover is listed in the product description. To calculate the number of boxes you need, take the total square feet of the space and divide it by the number of square feet the box will cover.

Tile shouldn’t be set tight against the tub. Bathtubs can expand when filled, and they can shift slightly with the weight of occupants. For this reason, it’s important to leave a slight gap between the bathtub and the first row of tile. Aim for a narrow gap of approximately 1/16 of an inch, filled with caulk, to allow for this expansion and movement while still allowing for tile shower waterproofing.