Selecting the right spacing and leveling setup is one of the most important decisions in any tile installation. The size of the tile, the application area, and the desired finish all influence which spacer clips and wedges should be used. Choosing incorrectly can lead to uneven joints, lippage, and unnecessary rework.
This guide breaks down how to choose the right spacing and leveling system for different tile types and installation scenarios.
Why Tile Size Matters
Tile size directly affects how visible imperfections will be. Larger tiles span more surface area, which increases the likelihood of height differences between adjacent tiles. Smaller tiles are more forgiving but still require consistent spacing for a clean finish.
Using the correct spacer size and a leveling system ensures uniform joints and helps compensate for minor variations in tile thickness or substrate flatness.
Common Spacer Sizes and When to Use Them
1/16″ (1.5 mm)
Best for:
- Rectified tiles
- Modern, minimalist designs
- Wall installations with precise tile edges
Consideration:
This tight spacing requires a very flat substrate and careful installation.
1/8″ (3 mm)
Best for:
- Most floor installations
- Standard porcelain and ceramic tiles
- Residential and commercial projects
Why it’s popular:
It balances ease of installation with a clean, professional look and allows for slight tile variation.
3/16″ and Larger
Best for:
- Rustic or handmade tiles
- Natural stone
- Outdoor or uneven substrates
Benefit:
Wider joints help mask irregularities and provide room for grout movement.
Matching the Leveling System to Tile Size
Small to Medium Tiles
- Fewer leveling clips are required
- Standard clip spacing is usually sufficient
- Focus on consistent joint width
Large-Format Tiles
- Require more leveling clips per tile edge
- Benefit most from clip-and-wedge systems
- Controlled pressure is essential to eliminate lippage
Tip:
Use leveling clips at regular intervals along tile edges, not just at corners.
Floor vs Wall Applications
- Floors: Prioritize strength and lippage control due to foot traffic and load.
- Walls: Focus on alignment and preventing tile slippage during curing.
A quality leveling system works for both, but spacing choice may differ based on visual preference and tile type.
Reusable Wedges and Disposable Clips
- Spacer clips maintain joint spacing and break off after curing.
- Reusable wedges apply leveling pressure and can be used repeatedly across projects.
Using both together creates a reliable system that improves efficiency and results.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right spacing and leveling system isn’t about aesthetics alone — it’s about performance, durability, and long-term quality. By matching spacer size and leveling components to tile size and application, installers can work faster, reduce errors, and deliver consistently professional finishes.