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Installer & Pro Supplies

Tile Spacers, Wedges and Shims

Tile spacers hold a consistent gap between tiles while the thinset sets, so grout lines come out even. This guide explains the types of spacers, how they differ from a leveling system, and how to pick a joint width the right way: from the tile manufacturer's recommendation, not the spacer bin.

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Samples carry a shipping charge and a deposit, confirmed by our team before anything ships.

What a tile spacer does

Four tile corners with a cross-shaped spacer holding an even joint between them
Illustration: the spacer sets the joint width; the tile manufacturer specifies what that width should be.

A spacer sets the width of the grout joint. The joint has to allow for the tile's own size variation, which is why rectified (machine-cut) tile and pressed or handmade tile often call for different joints. Check the tile manufacturer's recommended joint width first, and check a few tiles from the box against each other before you choose.

How to choose a spacer size

Use the joint width specified by the tile manufacturer or your installer, then choose a spacer that matches it. Follow ANSI A108.02 and the tile manufacturer's guidance. Joint width also affects how much tile you need; our tile calculator includes the joint automatically.

Types of spacers, wedges and shims

Hollow leave-in spacers

Spacers designed for use in the joint. Follow the manufacturer's instructions on whether and how they can remain under grout.

Wedges

Tapered wedges slide into the joint to hold spacing and can adjust small differences. Ask about regular and super wedge jars.

Horseshoe shims

U-shaped shims used to hold a gap at tubs, counters and other fixed edges, and to shim a first course.

Leveling clips

Part of a tile leveling system. They manage edge alignment (lippage), not just spacing.

Spacers vs. leveling systems

Spacers set joint width. Leveling systems keep adjacent tile edges flush while the mortar cures. Many large-format installations use a leveling system; check the tile manufacturer's instructions. Neither one fixes an out-of-flat floor; for that, see self-leveling compound.

How to use tile spacers

  1. Plan the layout and snap reference lines.
  2. Dry-fit a few tiles with spacers to confirm the joint and cuts.
  3. Set tile into thinset following the mortar manufacturer's instructions.
  4. Place spacers at corners or on edge, as the spacer type allows.
  5. Check flat and straight with a level and straightedge as you go.
  6. Remove removable spacers, wedges and shims before grouting, following the thinset data sheet for timing.

Spacers and shims to ask about

Manufacturer product information. Availability, colors, sizes and quantities are confirmed in your written quote.

Outside the Flathead Valley? We ship flooring and tile.

Northern Lights Design supplies flooring and tile to homeowners, builders and designers in markets without a local showroom. Start with samples, get a written quote, and we'll arrange shipping to your project. Terms are confirmed in your written quote.

Our approved shipping covers flooring and tile. Ask our team about setting materials such as grout, levelers and spacers when you request your quote.

How regional project delivery works

Start with samples

Tell us about your tile, substrate and project, and our team will review the products and put them in a written quote. Northern Lights Design supplies materials only; we do not install.

Request samples & a quote

Samples carry a shipping charge and a deposit, confirmed by our team before anything ships.

Tile Spacers FAQ

Use the grout joint width your tile manufacturer or installer specifies, then match the spacer to it. Follow ANSI A108.02 and the tile manufacturer's guidance.

Removable spacers, wedges and shims come out before grouting. For any spacer sold as leave-in, follow the spacer and grout manufacturers' instructions.

Spacers set joint width and leveling clips manage edge alignment. Follow each manufacturer's instructions when combining them.

They hold a consistent gap at fixed edges such as tubs and counters, and can shim a first course of wall tile.

No. Northern Lights Design supplies materials only. We provide samples and written quotes; you work with the installer of your choice.

Northern Lights Design supplies materials only and does not provide installation. Always follow the manufacturer's current product data sheet.