Go Back
What is Large Format Tile?
Any porcelain or stone tile that has one side measuring 15 inches or larger is considered large format. Some porcelain tiles are manufactured as large as 64″ x 128″. The logic behind large format tile is it can cover large surface areas quicker than laying smaller individual pieces of tile. The benefit is less time spent grouting and cleaning up, a sleeker look, and less maintenance.
Shown: Perugia Beige 24: x 48″ Polished tile.
Do Large Tiles work in Small Spaces?
Yes, indeed! An expansive surface with minimal grout joints interrupting the visual sight-line invoke the illusion of a bigger space. Choosing a color of grout that closely matches the tile will make those grout joints virtually disappear opening up the area and resulting in a seamless, uncluttered space.
Large format tiles are sensationally bold and will enhance a room with grand style.
Shown: Aesthetica Large Format Tiles.
Tiling with Large Tiles
Large format tiles are growing in popularity for architectural, commercial, and residential walls and floors. Their modern aesthetic, ease of maintenance, and color and pattern options make large format tiles a great choice for bathrooms, kitchens, living rooms, foyers, and outdoor applications*. Other uses for large tiles are tub surrounds and fireplaces. Using a large format tile with a marble-look pattern is a fantastic way to achieve a high-end, spa-like shower.
*Only exterior rated (R11 or higher) tile can be used for exterior floors.
Shown: Origins Large Format tile.
Can Large Format Tiles be Used in a Shower?
Installing large format tiles on shower walls will give the illusion of a larger space and give the shower modern appeal.
Large tiles can also be used on shower floors, however, extreme care must be taken to ensure there is adequate water drainage, tiles are properly sloped, and tiles are rated for wet installation.
Linear drains are designed to use with large format tiles and are the recommended choice for a safe and functional shower floor installation of large tiles.
It is also recommended to consult with a tile professional when dealing with tiling in wet areas.
Disadvantages of Large Format Tile
Large tiles can be harder to install. Since large format tiles cover more square footage, they are naturally more heavy to handle and installation can require more than one person depending on the size of the tile. Their large size and heavier weight make them more costly due to shipping cost and special handling services.
Adhesives specifically manufactured for large format tiles generally cost more due to a stronger bond is necessary to handle the weight of such a large tile. It is imperative that the tile be installed on a smooth, level substrate that is structurally sturdy and free of any grime or moisture to prevent the tile from cracking. So there may be added costs to make sure the substrate is suitable for installation. In addition, it is recommended that large format tiles be installed by a professional tile installer.
Large format tiles can break or crack if they are not handled properly or the substrate is not level, clean, or stable.
Shown: Forma Floor and Wall tile.
Are Large Tiles the Right Choice?
Although large format tiles have some obstacles, careful consideration should be made before committing to making your purchase. Pros and cons to consider before deciding on using large format tile as a design choice are:
- Large format tiles cover sizable areas with minimal grout joints
- They give an expansive appearance to small spaces
- Very durable and easy to clean
- Available in many decor styles including realistic luxury marbles
- More costly to purchase and install
- Proper preparation of the substrate is required
- Recommended to be installed by a professional tile installer
Have questions, need more help with large format tiles?
Garden State Tile’s knowledgeable design consultants can help with planning, product selection, and design assistance. Tile projects come in different shapes and sizes and we are here to help you navigate through the process for a successful finished project. Contact us or make an appointment with one of our design consultants today.
Large Format Tile Gallery
