Hexagon Tile: Pros & Cons? (7 Install NIGHTMARES!)
Ever since I started my flooring biz, I’ve seen
trends come and go.
But one that’s really stuck
around is the hexagon tile.
These geometric beauties are everywhere these days – kitchens, bathrooms, even living rooms!
Everyone wants that unique, modern look.
And honestly? I get it.
Hexagon tiles can totally transform a space.
They’re available in so many materials, colors, and finishes now, making them super accessible for homeowners and designers alike.
But here’s the thing: while they look amazing on Pinterest, installing them can be a real pain.
Trust me, I’ve seen it all.
From DIY disasters to even seasoned pros struggling to get it right.
So, before you jump on the hexagon bandwagon, let’s dive deep.
We’ll look at the good, the bad, and the downright ugly when it comes to hexagon tile.
Consider this your ultimate guide to avoiding those installation nightmares.
Section 1: Understanding
Hexagon Tiles
Okay, let’s start with the basics.
What exactly are hexagon tiles?
Well, they’re tiles shaped like, you guessed it, hexagons! Six-sided figures.
Think honeycomb – that’s the vibe.
But where did these little guys come from?
Tile design has been evolving for centuries.
From simple mosaics to intricate patterns.
Hexagons have popped up throughout history, but their recent surge in popularity is definitely a modern trend.
Now, let’s talk materials.
You’ve got your standard ceramic and porcelain, which are great for their durability and water resistance.
Then there’s natural stone like marble or slate, which adds a touch of luxury but can be a bit more high-maintenance.
And don’t forget glass!
It’s perfect for creating a sleek, contemporary look.
But what really makes hexagon tiles stand out is their aesthetic appeal.
They can instantly elevate any design style.
Whether you’re going for a modern, minimalist vibe or a rustic, farmhouse feel, hexagons can fit right in.
They add visual interest and a touch of sophistication that you just can’t get with your standard square tile.
Section 2: Pros of
Hexagon Tiles
Alright, let’s get into the good stuff.
Why are hexagon tiles so popular in the first place?
Visual Appeal
First off, they’re just plain eye-catching.
The geometric pattern creates a sense of depth and movement that can really transform a space.
I’ve seen them used to create stunning feature walls, intricate floor patterns, and even subtle accents.
They add a level of visual interest that you just can’t get with a plain, square tile.
Versatility
And speaking of versatility, hexagon tiles can be used everywhere.
Walls, floors, backsplashes – you name it!
I’ve even seen them used on shower floors for added grip.
Plus, they pair well with pretty much any design style.
Modern? Check.
Rustic? Check.
Eclectic? Double-check!
They’re like the chameleons of the tile world, adapting to any environment.
Durability
Now, let’s talk about durability.
Depending on the material, hexagon tiles can be incredibly tough.
Porcelain, for example, is known for its resistance to scratches, stains, and water damage.
That makes it perfect for high-traffic areas like kitchens and bathrooms.
I’ve installed porcelain hexagon tiles in countless homes, and they always hold up beautifully.
Ease of Maintenance
And the best part?
They’re relatively easy to maintain.
Again, it depends on the material.
But generally, a simple wipe-down with a mild cleaner is all you need to keep them looking their best.
Just be sure to seal your grout regularly to prevent staining.
Customization
But perhaps the biggest pro of hexagon tiles is their customization potential.
You can mix and match colors, sizes, and even materials to create a truly unique design.
I’ve seen homeowners create stunning mosaics, ombre effects, and even personalized patterns with hexagon tiles.
The possibilities are endless!
Section 3: Cons of
Hexagon Tiles
Okay, now for the not-so-fun part.
Let’s be real, hexagon tiles aren’t all sunshine and rainbows.
There are some definite downsides to consider.
Installation Complexity
First and foremost, installation can be a nightmare.
Cutting these tiles to fit around corners, curves, or uneven surfaces is incredibly tricky.
You need specialized tools and a whole lot of patience.
I’ve seen countless DIY projects go sideways because people underestimate the complexity of hexagon tile installation.
Cost
And speaking of complexity, that often translates to higher costs.
Not only are hexagon tiles often more expensive than traditional square tiles, but the installation can also cost more due to the extra labor involved.
I always advise my clients to factor in the potential cost overruns before committing to a hexagon tile project.
Grout Lines
Another potential downside?
Grout lines.
Because of their shape, hexagon tiles have more grout lines than square tiles.
That means more cleaning and more potential for staining.
I always recommend using a high-quality grout sealer to help protect against stains and make cleaning easier.
Limited Resale Value
Now, this one’s a bit subjective, but it’s worth considering.
While hexagon tiles are definitely trendy right now, they might not appeal to every potential buyer down the road.
Some people might find them too busy or too dated.
I always advise my clients to think about the long-term resale value of their home before making any major design decisions.
Slip Resistance
Finally, let’s talk about safety.
Depending on the material and finish, hexagon tiles can be slippery, especially when wet.
This is particularly concerning in areas like bathrooms or kitchens where spills are common.
I always recommend choosing a tile with a slip-resistant finish, especially for floor applications.
Section 4: 7 Install
NIGHTMARES with Hexagon Tiles
Alright, buckle up, because this is where things get real.
I’m about to share some of the most common installation nightmares I’ve encountered with hexagon tiles.
These are the things that keep me up at night!
1. Cutting Challenges
Oh, the dreaded cutting challenges.
This is by far the biggest hurdle when it comes to hexagon tile installation.
Cutting these tiles to fit around corners, pipes, or other obstacles requires precision and patience.
You’ll need a wet saw with a diamond blade, and even then, it’s easy to make mistakes.
I’ve seen countless tiles chipped, cracked, or completely ruined during the cutting process.
One of the biggest mistakes I see is people trying to rush the cutting process.
Take your time, measure carefully, and always err on the side of caution.
It’s better to cut too little than too much.
2. Alignment Issues
Next up, alignment issues.
Achieving a perfectly aligned hexagon pattern can be incredibly tricky.
Even the slightest misalignment can throw off the entire look of the installation.
I’ve seen projects where the tiles looked great individually, but when put together, they created a wonky, uneven mess.
The key to avoiding alignment issues is to use spacers.
These little plastic pieces help maintain consistent grout lines and ensure that your tiles are perfectly aligned.
I also recommend dry-fitting the tiles before you start setting them in mortar.
This will give you a chance to identify any potential alignment issues and make adjustments before it’s too late.
3. Grout Application Problems
Ah, grout.
The bane of every tile installer’s existence.
With hexagon tiles, grout application can be particularly challenging due to the increased number of grout lines.
Uneven grout lines can completely ruin the aesthetic of your installation.
I’ve seen projects where the grout was too wide, too narrow, or just plain messy.
The key to achieving perfect grout lines is to use a grout float and a sponge.
Apply the grout evenly, and then use the sponge to wipe away any excess.
Be sure to rinse the sponge frequently to avoid smearing the grout.
4. Surface Preparation
This one might seem obvious, but it’s often overlooked.
Proper surface preparation is crucial for any tile installation, but it’s especially important with hexagon tiles.
An uneven or unstable substrate can lead to cracked tiles, loose tiles, and a whole host of other problems.
I’ve seen projects where the tiles started popping up just weeks after installation due to poor surface preparation.
Before you start installing your hexagon tiles, make sure your substrate is clean, level, and stable.
You may need to apply a self-leveling compound or a backer board to create a smooth, even surface.
5. Weight Considerations
This is particularly important for wall installations.
Some hexagon tiles, especially those made of natural stone, can be quite heavy.
If your wall isn’t strong enough to support the weight of the tiles, they could come crashing down.
I’ve seen walls buckle and collapse under the weight of heavy hexagon tiles.
Before you install hexagon tiles on a wall, make sure the wall is structurally sound and can support the weight of the tiles.
You may need to reinforce the wall with additional studs or bracing.
6. Waterproofing Concerns
This is especially important in bathrooms and other wet areas.
If your hexagon tiles aren’t properly waterproofed, water can seep through the grout lines and damage the substrate.
This can lead to mold growth, rot, and even structural damage.
I’ve seen bathrooms where the walls were completely rotted out due to improper waterproofing.
Before you install hexagon tiles in a wet area, make sure to apply a waterproof membrane to the substrate.
This will create a barrier that prevents water from seeping through the grout lines.
7. Time Consumption
Finally, let’s talk about time.
Installing hexagon tiles is a time-consuming process.
It takes longer to cut, align, and grout hexagon tiles than it does with square tiles.
If you’re on a tight deadline, hexagon tiles might not be the best choice.
I’ve seen projects that were supposed to take a few days stretch into weeks due to the complexity of hexagon tile installation.
Be sure to factor in the extra time when planning your project.
Conclusion
So, there you have it.
The pros and cons of hexagon tiles, along with seven installation nightmares to avoid.
Hexagon tiles can be a stunning addition to any space, but they’re not without their challenges.
Weigh the pros and cons carefully before making a decision.
And if you’re not comfortable with the installation process, don’t be afraid to call in a professional.
Trust me, it’s better to spend a little extra money upfront than to deal with a DIY disaster down the road.
Happy tiling!
