Understanding Lippage in Tile Flooring

Lippage: It’s the silent saboteur of stunning tile work. This hidden menace can turn dream floors into a nightmare and tripping hazard. But don’t worry, Spartan is here to help! Learn how to identify, prevent, and fix lippage with this comprehensive guide, ensuring your tile installations are smooth and stunning.

What is Lippage?

As discussed by our resident flooring guru Christopher Capobianco in a previous article, lippage occurs when adjacent tiles are set at different heights, creating an uneven surface. Even when minor it can affect the overall aesthetic and safety of a tiled area. The Tile Council of North America (TCNA) outlines standards for allowable limits, but exceeding these limits can compromise a project. Achieving a flat, consistent surface is crucial for both functionality and appearance.

What Does Lippage Look Like?

This problematic tile issue often appears as a slight edge or “lip” where one tile sits higher than the one next to it. In severe cases, this can be visible from across the room or felt underfoot. Under certain lighting, such as natural or low-angle light, it can be even more noticeable, causing shadows and a less appealing look. Consistent lighting and careful inspection during installation can help spot potential lippage issues early on.

How Much Lippage is Acceptable?

According to the TCNA, minimal lippage may be acceptable depending on several factors including:

Allowable thickness variation of the tile modules.
Allowable warpage of the tile modules.
Spacing or separation of each tile module.
Angle of natural or manufactured light.
Highly reflective surfaces of tile modules.

For most tiles, the TCNA suggests a maximum of 1/32 inch for tiles with a grout joint of 1/8 inch or less. However, acceptable levels can vary based on tile type, setting materials, and installation conditions, so it’s essential to consult guidelines for specific project needs. Professional installers should measure and adjust each tile carefully to stay within these limits.

Can You Fix Lippage?

Reinstallation may be required in cases of significant lippage, where tiles need to be removed and reset at a level height. Working with experienced tile installers and using quality materials are critical to reducing the risk of costly repairs due to lippage.

What are the Potential Hazards of Lippage?

Lippage is more than just an aesthetic issue; it can create tripping hazards, especially in high-traffic areas. Uneven tiles may increase the risk of slips or trips, potentially leading to injuries. It can also lead to quicker tile wear and tear as elevated edges become vulnerable to impact or chipping. Maintaining safe, smooth floors helps protect both occupants and the tiles themselves.

How to Prevent Lippage

Prevention begins with selecting quality materials, including properly sized tiles and adequate grout. Using a leveling system during installation ensures tiles remain flush with one another, reducing the risk of unevenness. It’s also essential to work with skilled installers who are experienced with tile spacing and leveling techniques. Preparing the subfloor and following best practices are key steps in achieving a flat, uniform surface.

Say goodbye to uneven tiles and hello to a stunning, level surface! By following these guidelines, you’ll be well on your way to achieving a professional tile installation you can be proud of. Need more guidance? Reach out to Spartan – we’re always happy to help!

ABOUT SPARTAN

Spartan Surfaces is a specialty flooring supplier headquartered in Bel Air, MD. Employing over 250 team members, Spartan prides itself on taking a human-centered approach to business. We put people at the forefront of everything we do – our clients, our suppliers, our communities, our team, and our families. Spartan holds warehousing and offices in Maryland, Minnesota, and Upstate New York with showrooms in D.C., New York City, and Chicago. Its geography spans the contiguous United States with continued expansion on the horizon. We are great people dedicated to great products, great families, great friendships, and great happiness. Whatever you’re working on, we’ve got you covered!