All About Subway Tile: Everything You Need to Know

August 21, 2024

Subway tile is a true classic that looks great in nearly any home or commercial setting. Today, we’re diving into its history, benefits, and suitable applications. We’ll also suggest several variations on the traditional subway tile characteristics so you can create your own one-of-a-kind take on this timeless tile option.

Be sure to scroll all the way to the bottom of this blog post for a special discount code!

What Is Subway Tile?

Pictured: Timeless Soft Gray 3x6 Ceramic Tile

Traditional subway tile consists of three-by-six-inch white rectangular ceramic tiles that are laid horizontally with a 50% offset. This means that the middle of one tile is perfectly aligned with the edges of the two tiles directly above and below it.

Today, you’ll see many variations on classic subway tile. Often, any rectangular tile with one-to-two dimensions, such as one-by-two inches, two-by-four inches, or six-by-12 inches, is considered a type of subway tile.

While the original subway tiles were exclusively made of ceramic, today’s subway tiles are made from a variety of materials, including porcelain, glass, and natural stone.

The History of Subway Tile

Pictured: Urban Brick Anthracite 3x12 Ceramic Tile

Subway tile dates back to 1904, when the first New York City subway was established, stretching from lower Manhattan to 145th Street in Harlem. Two architects named George C. Heins and Christopher Grand La Farge were asked to determine an aesthetically pleasing, hygienic, and low-maintenance surfacing solution for the below-ground subway stations.

At this time, there was a huge cultural focus on cleanliness, which greatly influenced Heins and La Farge’s choice. They selected white, glossy ceramic tiles with slightly curved edges, which would soon be known as subway tiles due to their original location.

These tiles were easy to clean and resistant to stains. Plus, their polished finish reflected light to brighten the dark, shadowy subway stations. This created a safe, sanitary, and familiar appearance that was comforting to the individuals of New York City, who may have initially been nervous about traveling underground.

Pictured: Venice Azul 2x10 Ceramic Tile

After subway tile was first used in the early 1900s, it became more widespread and was installed in many other transportation hubs around the world.

Because of its practicality, sanitary appearance, and minimal maintenance requirements, subway tile’s uses expanded into other areas where cleanliness and hygiene were key, notably bathrooms and kitchens.

Subway tile became an interior design staple that is still widely used and highly popular today. Now, it’s available in countless variations to suit a wide range of preferences.

Why Is Subway Tile So Popular?

Subway tile is one of the tile types with the most longevity - after over 100 years, it’s still going strong as a popular pick for residential and commercial applications of all kinds.

Pictured: Timeless Ice White Wavy 4x10 Ceramic Tile

Its simplicity and timelessness have made it a classic that never goes out of style. It’s versatile and can be used in almost any space, and since it’s expanded far beyond the original three-by-six-inch white ceramic tiles, there are suitable options for nearly every different interior design preference.

Another benefit is that many subway tile options are highly affordable, making them an easy choice for those who want to upgrade their interior design without breaking the budget.

Subway tile is also durable and easy to clean, so it’s a no-brainer for spaces like kitchens and bathrooms. Its glazed surface reflects light and brightens up any room it’s in.

Subway Tile Installation and Maintenance

Pictured: Urban Brick Blanco 3x12 Ceramic Tile

Should you install subway tile yourself or hire a pro, and what kind of upkeep does this type of tile require?

Installing tile yourself can save you money, but if you don’t have the time, tools, or skills necessary for a polished-looking final product, it may be best to consider bringing in a professional.

Tile installation typically involves the following steps:

Planning your layout and setting up the tile pattern to avoid any awkward cuts
Gathering your tools, which may require you to rent items like a tile cutter or tile saw
Preparing the surface where the tile will be installed, ensuring it’s stable, even, and clean
Applying the right adhesive, installing tiles according to your layout, and using tile spacers to maintain consistent spacing for grout lines
Allowing plenty of time for the adhesive to set before grouting
Waiting for the grout to dry before removing the grout haze

Pictured: Timeless Ice White Reverse Beveled 3x6 Ceramic Tile

Here are several resources to help you through this process:

Hiring a pro to install your subway tile may be wise if the following situations apply:

You’re installing natural stone tile, glass subway tile, or another type of tile that’s delicate or expensive
The project requires complex cuts
You’ve chosen a less-straightforward pattern, like herringbone
The project is very large (a full accent wall as opposed to a backsplash)
You’re not sure if the project requires waterproofing or how to complete this process
You don’t have the necessary tools
You’re not sure about what types of adhesive and grout to use
You don’t have any experience with DIY home renovation

Pictured: Venice Black 2x10 Ceramic Tile

As far as maintenance goes, wiping down ceramic, porcelain, or glass subway tile with water often does the trick. A multipurpose spray cleaner or warm water and non-abrasive soap can remove any stubborn grease or soap scum. Steer clear of cleaners containing acids and ammonia, and thoroughly dry the tile after cleaning it to avoid streaking.

Natural stone tile requires the use of a pH-neutral cleaning solution, and it also needs to be resealed regularly. Learn more about maintaining different types of tile.

Grout generally needs to be replaced when it begins to show signs of wear, usually around every eight to 16 years.

Where to Use Subway Tile

Although we don’t recommend using subway tile as flooring, it’s suitable for nearly all wall applications:

Fun Twists on Classic Subway Tile

Pictured: Calacatta Gold 2x8 Marble Tile

While classic white subway tile is always a safe choice, putting a fun twist on this traditional option can add some intrigue to your interior design. Here are a few options:

Instead of a 50% offset, try a ⅓ or ¼ offset for a slightly different look.
Align your subway tiles in a horizontal or vertical grid.
Play around with herringbone patterns: classic, straight, or diagonal.
Try picket tile for a hexagonal take on subway tile.
Select elongated tiles rather than tiles with the usual one-to-two dimensions. There are also very small and very large subway tiles available, all of which can create unique looks.
Opt for the color of your choice, rather than white - subway tile is available in bright jewel tones, neutrals, pastels, and more.
Create a pattern with subway tile in multiple colors.
Apply grout that perfectly matches the tile for a seamless look or contrasting grout for a more striking appearance.
Choose marble-look porcelain or natural stone subway tile for a more elegant, upscale aesthetic.
Try beveled or reverse beveled subway tile for a three-dimensional look.
Consider using textured tile, tile with a matte finish, or alternate between matte and polished tiles.

Explore Subway Tile Options at Tilezz.com!

At Tilezz.com, we have a wide range of subway tiles in a variety of materials, sizes, and colors.

Find an option that suits your style here, or for more interior design inspiration, check out our blog.

You can also follow us on Pinterest!

Discount Code

It can be challenging to pick between several flooring options without seeing how they look in your space, but we can make it easier! Just use code XJF6RNZY5BJJ to get 30% off when you purchase four or more samples.

Please note that this code does not apply to full-size tiles and can only be used with samples.