We are having saltillo tile installed throughout the downstairs of our home, except for hardwood flooring in the dining room and entry way. The installer is suggesting 1/8" grout between the 13.5" tiles -- he said if we do 3/8" grout between the tiles, it will take on the appearance of a Mexican restaurant...Any suggestions as to what would be the more appropriate?

Hi
Since I don't know what the tile looks like, I can only guess...but saltillo tile in my experience varies in size so much, that I would think it's impossible to lay it with a 1/8 grout joint. In fact even 3/8 would be too small a joint to keep the edges from sticking up against each tile.(lippage) Lets see what the others have to say.

I'd say the same thing. Most tiles Maggie vary in size a little although you may not realize it. But like Bri said, the saltillo's vary even more than regular ceramic, so if he shoots for a 1/8 joint i'd be willing to bet that you grout lines may look really out of whack when he's finished.

Bri and Randy are right. There is such a bevel to this style of tile (at least with the ones I've seen), a 1/8" grout line would not do a good job. The wider grout lines, especially the earthy grey colors work well with saltillo tile.

Hi
Check out this link:

http://www.johnbridge.com/Saltillo_Tile_Photos.htm

...as you can see, John is using at least a 1/2 inch joint..and you can still see the variation in the grout joints from one tile to the next.