If you’ve ever dreamed of having a tiled floor that looks smooth and seamless, you’re not alone. According to the 2025 NKBA Kitchen Trends report, homeowners are moving away from thick grout lines in favor of thin or NO grout joints. Why? Because smaller lines look modern, are easier to clean, and need less upkeep. If you’re curious about how to get that clean, sleek look in your home, here’s everything you need to know.
Why Small Grout Lines Are So Popular
Thick lines used to be common between porcelain tiles and natural stones alike, but times have changed. People now want flooring that looks stylish and is easier to care for. Wider grout lines can trap dirt and stains, making floors harder to clean. Smaller grout lines don’t have that problem, which means less time sealing, scrubbing, and more time enjoying your home.
This trend also fits into a bigger shift. Homeowners want durable, low-maintenance floors that can handle everyday life—spills, messes, and all. Smaller grout lines not only make cleaning easier but also make your floors look polished and modern.
Can You Really Have No Grout?
The short answer: well, not quite. Grout serves a purpose, and it is important. It keeps tiles in place and blocks water from getting underneath them. A tile without grout can be more prone to loosening or cracking over time. That said, you can make grout lines much smaller—or nearly invisible—by choosing the right materials.
Here’s how:
- Rectified tiles: These tiles have straight, sharp edges. This lets them fit tightly together, so you need very little grout.
- Smaller grout lines: You can go as small as 1/16 inch with rectified tiles. Traditional tiles usually need larger grout lines because their edges aren’t perfectly even.
- Epoxy grout: This type of grout is strong, resists stains, and works well with tight grout lines. It’s more expensive than regular grout, but it lasts longer and is easier to clean.
Completely skipping grout isn’t a good idea, especially in kitchens where spills happen often. But with the right materials, your grout lines will be so small, you might not even notice them.
What to Keep in Mind
While smaller grout lines look amazing, there are a few things to remember. First, you can’t skip grout on floors entirely—it helps keep your tiles in place and protects them from moisture. Second, small grout lines require precise installation. Even tiny mistakes can be noticeable with narrow grout joints.
You should also plan for a slightly higher budget. Rectified tiles and epoxy grout are available at a range of prices, but can cost more than standard tiles and grout. If you are set on your vision, the payoff is worth it.
If you want a modern, low-maintenance kitchen floor, minimal grout lines are the way to go during your renovation. With the right materials and a professional installer, you’ll have the seamless, stylish look you’re dreaming of.
