At Cost U Less Flooring, one of the most common questions we get from customers shopping for tile is, "How thick should my tile be?" It may not seem like a major detail at first, but tile thickness has a big impact on how your floors perform over time—and how smooth the installation process goes.
If you're searching for tile flooring near me, you've probably already seen a wide range of tile styles, materials, and thicknesses. Here's a breakdown of what you need to know before you choose the right tile for your space.
Q&A: Understanding tile thickness and performance
- Q: Why does tile thickness matter for my project?
- A: Thicker tiles typically offer more durability and better impact resistance, but may require subfloor prep or adjustment at doorways.
- Q: What are the most common tile thicknesses?
- A: Most floor tiles range from 8mm to 12mm thick. Wall tiles are thinner, typically 6mm to 8mm.
- Q: How does thickness affect tile installation?
- A: Thicker tiles may need special tools or adhesives and can affect the overall floor height compared to adjacent surfaces.
- Q: Are thicker tiles always better?
- A: Not always. It depends on where you're installing the tile and what kind of wear and tear the space will see.
- Q: What tile flooring trends are emerging around tile thickness?
- A: Large-format tiles are becoming more popular, and many of them come in thicker profiles to enhance strength and visual impact.
Let's dig into the details
Durability starts with the right thickness
When you're selecting the best tile flooring for high-traffic areas—like kitchens, hallways, or entryways—thicker tile is generally the better option. These tiles can withstand more weight, pressure, and impact over time. We often recommend 10mm to 12mm thick porcelain tile in homes where long-term tile flooring durability is a top priority.
Thinner tile (around 6mm–8mm) is better suited for walls or low-traffic areas. If your goal is to reduce weight or make installation easier on vertical surfaces, these can be a great choice.
Why installation gets tricky with thicker tiles
Here's where thickness plays a real role in your tile flooring buying guide. The thicker the tile, the heavier it is—both to transport and to install. Installers may need a stronger adhesive or upgraded cutting tools to ensure a clean finish.
Thicker tile can also create height transitions between rooms. If you're placing it next to hardwood or carpet, you'll want a pro installer to account for that so you don't end up with awkward or uneven thresholds.
We also walk customers through American Fork UT remodeling company prices to factor in extra installation costs when upgrading to thicker or oversized tile.
Style vs strength—finding the balance
Don't assume thicker is always better. Some of today's top rated tile flooring products are made with advanced materials that allow for thinner profiles without sacrificing performance. High-quality porcelain, for example, can offer exceptional strength at just 8mm thick.
If you're browsing current tile flooring trends, you'll notice more homeowners opting for large-format or plank-style tile—sometimes in sizes like 12 "x24" or longer. These often come with increased thickness for added support and stability, especially in open-concept layouts.
What about repairs and replacements?
If you're considering long-term ease of maintenance, thicker tiles can be more forgiving. Thinner tiles may chip or crack more easily under heavy loads or impact. On the other hand, thick tiles can be harder to remove or replace if something does go wrong, which is something to consider in high-risk areas like bathrooms or kitchens.
Thickness also plays a role in insulation and sound
An underrated part of choosing tile flooring is how it affects the feel underfoot and the sound in your home. Thicker tile may provide a slightly more cushioned, insulated experience. Combined with the right underlayment, it can help reduce echo in large rooms or create a more solid feel in multi-level homes.
Final thoughts
Tile thickness may not be the flashiest part of your flooring project, but it's one of the most important for lasting performance and overall satisfaction. Whether you're drawn to thick porcelain for durability or thinner ceramic for budget and ease, the right choice depends on your space, goals, and expectations.
Looking for tile flooring near me? We've got samples in every thickness, size, and finish imaginable—along with expert advice to help you make the right decision.
We proudly serve homeowners comparing flooring company near me and evaluating tile flooring cost and value in American Fork, UT and the surrounding areas.
