Bathroom Floor Tile Sizes: 5 Options for 16x8: Practical tile-size choices and layout ideas I use for a 16x8 bathroom — with quick math, pros/cons, and real tips from 10+ years of renovations

I once had a client insist on tiny penny tiles for a 16 x 8 bathroom because “they feel nostalgic” — which sounded charming until we faced endless grout lines and a budget that doubled. After a weekend of mockups I learned how much the tile size changes the whole room’s vibe, so I put together a few tested options and a detailed layout example to show clients before we cut a single tile.

1. Large-format 24" x 24" for a clean, modern look

For a 16 x 8 room, 24" x 24" (2 ft x 2 ft) tiles make the space feel calm and uncluttered. At 128 sq ft, you’d need about 32 tiles (128 / 4 sq ft per tile) plus ~10% waste → ~35 tiles; fewer grout lines mean easier cleaning and a high-end appearance.

Downside: large tiles show floor flatness issues and need a skilled installer. If your subfloor is wavy, budget for leveling or choose a slightly smaller format.

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2. Rectangular 12" x 24" to elongate or widen the room

12" x 24" planks are my go-to for long, narrow bathrooms because orientation matters — lay them parallel to the short wall to visually widen the room, or parallel to the long wall to emphasize length. Each 12x24 tile covers 2 sq ft, so you’ll need ~64 tiles plus waste → ~70 tiles.

They strike a nice balance: modern, affordable, and forgiving on less-than-perfect substrates. The extra grout lines compared to 24x24 add texture, which some clients love.

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3. Mid-size 18" x 18" for pattern and proportion

18" x 18" tiles are a sweet middle ground — they break the monotony without overwhelming the room. At 2.25 sq ft per tile, you’ll need ~57 tiles (128 / 2.25) and about ~63 with waste. I use these when homeowners want a classic tiled feel without too many seams.

They can be a bit more expensive per tile than 12x24, but installation is simpler than very large formats, and cuts around fixtures are manageable.

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4. Small tiles and mosaics for shower floors and accents

For shower floors and niches, stick to 1"–2" mosaic tiles — they handle slopes and provide grip. Use small tiles selectively: a patterned border or niche can add personality without overwhelming the 16 x 8 footprint. If you’re doing a mosaic shower base, order extra for careful layout and cutting.

Small tiles mean more grout and more maintenance, but they’re often the only practical choice for properly sloped shower pans.

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5. Layout tricks, grout, and transitions that make any size work

A diagonal layout or herringbone with 12x24s can visually widen a narrow room; contrasting grout lines can either highlight pattern or disappear entirely when matched. I always mock up tile runs at doorways and around vanities to avoid tiny slivers at walls — a small extra cost in planning saves painful cuts later. If you want to preview how different patterns feel in the room, check a tile layout options visualization first.

Budget note: larger tiles often mean lower installed cost per sq ft because fewer grout joints to grout, but they may need a more skilled installer and floor prep.

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Practical numbers and a quick checklist

Room area: 16 ft × 8 ft = 128 sq ft. Estimate tiles by area (tile sq ft = length × width in feet). Add 8–12% for cuts and waste; add more for diagonal patterns. Don’t forget shower floors usually need smaller tiles for drainage, and threshold transitions to adjacent rooms.

When in doubt, bring a few sample tiles home at full size and lay them out; I do that with every client. If you want a photoreal mockup of your choices, I sometimes use a 3D visualization case to sell the idea before ordering tiles.

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FAQ

Q1: What tile size is best for a 16 x 8 bathroom?

A: There’s no single “best” size — 24"x24" for a sleek look, 12"x24" for flexibility, and 18"x18" as a compromise. Choose based on style, subfloor condition, and budget.

Q2: How many tiles will I need?

A: Calculate room area (128 sq ft), divide by tile area in sq ft, then add 8–12% waste. For example, 12"x24" tiles (2 sq ft) → ~64 tiles + ~6–8 extra for cuts.

Q3: Are large-format tiles harder to install?

A: Yes, they require a flatter substrate and a skilled installer to avoid lippage. Budget for floor prep if your subfloor isn’t perfectly flat.

Q4: Should grout color match the tile?

A: Matching grout hides seams for a seamless look; contrasting grout highlights pattern. I recommend testing a small strip before committing.

Q5: What about slip resistance for bathroom floors?

A: For wet areas use tiles with a textured finish or higher COF rating; reserve slick polished tiles for dry zones only.

Q6: Can I use the same tile in the shower and the floor?

A: You can use the same tile on walls and bathroom floors, but shower floors typically need smaller tiles or mosaics to create proper slopes and traction.

Q7: Where can I find installation guidelines?

A: Refer to the Tile Council of North America (TCNA) Handbook for authoritative installation standards — it’s widely used by professionals for substrate prep and installation methods (see https://www.tcnatile.com/).

Q8: Are big tiles more expensive overall?

A: Material cost per tile can be higher, but because you need fewer tiles and less grout, installed cost per sq ft can be comparable or even lower. Always get installer quotes that include floor prep.

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