Large Format Tile — Design and Installation Issues (2024)

FAQs

What are the disadvantages of large format tiles? ›

Large format tiles are also more prone to cracking than smaller tiles. Because they are larger and heavier, they can be more difficult to handle and install. This means that if they are not installed properly, they can crack or become damaged over time.

Large tiles can't flex over raised areas or dips in the subfloor like smaller tiles can. If the substrate is not perfectly level, using large tiles can result in lippage, which is when the edge of one tile is higher than an adjacent tile.

However, in a tile that is within the standard of allowable warpage, the high point of a tile (where warpage most times is pronounced) is centered on the low point of warpage (the two end joints) of two tiles. The result of 50% offset, as seen in image # 2, is both unsightly and can be a significant safety hazard.

Misconception #2: “Large format panels are more fragile and therefore, more likely to crack.” In reality: With proper installation, tiles that are larger in size are no more likely to crack than their smaller relatives.

Proper Offset

Laying out your large format tile prior to installation is important. It can help determine the pattern that best suites your project. For large format tile, it is important to use a 1/3 (33%) offset opposed to the more traditional 1/2 “brick” pattern.

The pressure built up by a shifting substrate can result in tiles pushing against each other, building pressure to a point that the glue adhering the tile to the substrate gives way, and the tiles 'pop' up, often in a tenting formation, like the image above.

Answer: It is recommended to use a medium-bed mortar when installing large format tile to compensate for irregularities in the tile and substrate. Common thin-set mortars shrink as they cure — the displacement of water causes the mortar to retract and pull the tile as it hardens.

Large-format tiles sometimes cost less to buy and install. Sometimes materials that replicate natural stone can be cheaper when and if it takes fewer individual tiles to cover more floor or wall space. Remember, though; it takes a trained professional with the best tools to measure precisely enough not to waste tile.

If a triangle has sides measuring 3, 4, and 5 feet (1.5 m) (or any other unit), it must be a right triangle with a 90º angle between the short sides. If you can "find" this triangle in your corner, you know the corner is square.

Tile Layout and the Golden Ratio 1.618:1 DIY ceramic tile installation | Tile layout, Tile installation, Layout.

What is the best pattern for large floor tiles? ›

If you have large tiles then the best way to help them reach their full potential is to lay them out in a simple, horizontal grid pattern or stack bond design. This helps to make small rooms feel bigger and creates a sleek effect, with fewer grout lines.

GROUT JOINT SIZE FOR LARGE AND HEAVY TILE

Daltile recommends that large tiles have a 1/8” or 3/16” minimum grout joint for the most successful installation. The difference is not really noticeable visually, but can make a big difference to the quality of the installation.

Larger Tiles Make Small Rooms Appear Bigger

Because grout lines are thinner and fewer as part of the layout, smaller rooms appear bigger when using larger tiles. Large-format tiles make floors look more streamlined – therefore, creating the illusion of more space.

With larger tiles, there are fewer grout lines to clean, so you save time cleaning. Also, there is less cleaning product to purchase, which means you also save money. Morever, your installation will last longer.

As large format tiles are a lot heavier and bigger, they come with their own problems. A tiler will spend more time cutting the tiles and picking the right adhesive for their weight. The material of the tiles will also matter, as some more porous tiles will need to be sealed for a high-quality finish.