How to Lay Large-Format Tiles on Walls and Floors

Large-format tiles quickly become a favourite in modern interiors—and it’s easy to see why. Their oversized dimensions create a seamless, high-end look that makes any space feel more sophisticated. Whether revamping a bathroom, upgrading your kitchen, or designing an open-plan living area, these tiles can turn ordinary walls and floors into stylish, statement surfaces.

However, installing large-format tiles requires precision, planning, and proper tools for the best outcome. Whether you are a DIY enthusiast or a professional, understanding the techniques for handling these tiles is essential.

This guide will walk you through laying large-format tiles on walls and floors, ensuring an elegant and durable finish every time.

Understanding Large-Format Tiles and Their Benefits

Large-format floor tiles, defined as tiles with at least one side measuring over 60 centimetres, are a modern interior and exterior design choice. These larger tiles come in various textures, finishes, and materials, making them ideal for walls and floors. Whether you’re installing large-format tiles indoors or outdoors, they can enhance the aesthetic of any space.

Why Choose Large-Format Tiles?

• A Sleek, Seamless Look – Fewer grout lines mean a clean, uninterrupted finish that gives your space a sophisticated, modern feel.
• Makes Rooms Feel Bigger – With less visual clutter, these tiles create an illusion of space, making them perfect for smaller rooms and open-plan areas.
• Low Maintenance, High Impact – Cleaning is a breeze since there are fewer grout lines where dirt and grime can build up.
• Built to Last – Designed for durability, high-quality large tiles withstand heavy foot traffic and daily wear and tear.
• Perfect for Wet Areas – Ideal for bathrooms and kitchens, these tiles help prevent water seepage thanks to minimal grout lines.

Common Applications

Large-format tiles are versatile. They are frequently used as floor tiles in kitchens, bathrooms, living rooms, and outdoor areas. Their sleek and contemporary appearance adds sophistication to any tile installation project.

Tools and Materials Needed for Large-Format Tile Installation

Essential Tools

• Tile Cutter or Wet Saw: These are necessary for cutting large-format tiles cleanly and accurately to fit edges, corners, or custom layouts.
• Notched Trowel: Ensures even distribution of adhesive across the surface for a secure bond.
• Spirit Level: Used to check that tiles are perfectly aligned and level during installation.
• Rubber Mallet: Helps gently tap tiles into place, ensuring they sit evenly without damaging the surface.
• Tile Spacers: Maintaining consistent grout lines is crucial for a professional and uniform finish.

Materials Required

• Large-Format Tiles: The main component is available in various designs and finishes for walls and floors.
• Tile Adhesive: Choose a high-quality adhesive for large tiles to ensure proper bonding.
• Grout for Narrow Grout Lines: A grout suitable for smaller gaps enhances the seamless appearance of large tiles.
• Primer: Prepares and strengthens the surface, improving adhesive bonding and preventing tile movement.

Why Proper Tools Matter

Using high-quality tools ensures precise tile installation, especially with large format tiles that are heavier and more fragile. Proper tools reduce the risk of cracking or misalignment, ensuring a flawless and durable result.

Preparing Walls and Floors for Tile Installation

Proper preparation ensures a flawless and long-lasting tile installation. Large-format tiles require specific steps to achieve a perfect finish.

1. Surface Preparation

A clean and flat floor or wall surface is crucial. Use a damp cloth to remove dust and debris. To create a stable base, address uneven areas with a levelling compound or mortar bed. For porous surfaces, apply a primer to improve adhesion across the entire surface. This step prevents issues like cracked tiles or improper bonding.

2 . Measuring and Marking

Measure the area carefully and plan the layout before starting. For balanced interior design, mark the centre of the walls or floors to guide tile placement. This step ensures symmetry and reduces the need for excessive cuts.

3. Choosing the Right Adhesive

Selecting the correct adhesive is essential. Use an adhesive designed explicitly for large-format tiles to provide a strong bond. Choose one that resists water and prevents slipping in wet areas like a shower floor. Depending on the substrate, a cement mix or cement mortar may also be used for specific projects.

4. Addressing Wet Areas

Wet areas like bathrooms require extra precautions, such as using a waterproof membrane to protect the surface from water damage. Include movement joints in these spaces to accommodate any shifts and prevent cracks. This step is vital for maintaining the durability and appearance of large tiles.

Step-by-Step Guide to Installing Large-Format Tiles

Large-format tiles require precise techniques for a professional finish. Follow these steps carefully to ensure a durable and beautiful installation.

Step 1: Applying the Adhesive

Picking the right adhesive is key—ensure it’s suitable for large-format tiles and the surface you’re working with, whether cement, stone, or brick. Using a notched trowel, spread the adhesive evenly in small sections.

This prevents it from drying too quickly before you place the tiles. Consistency is everything—too much or too little adhesive can cause issues down the line.

Step 2: Placing the Tiles

Begin laying tiles at the marked centre of the room. Position the first large format tile at the intersection of your guidelines. Press it firmly into the adhesive with a slight twisting motion to create a strong bond. This method ensures the tile is correctly fixed to the surface.

Step 3: Ensuring Alignment

Check each tile using a spirit level to align the floor or wall perfectly. Use spacers to maintain consistent grout joints. Correct alignment is critical for creating a seamless look, especially on walls or large areas of floors.

Step 4: Cutting Tiles Like a Pro

Measure twice, cut once! Mark exactly where to trim the tiles before using a wet saw or tile cutter. Safety first—always wear eye protection. Clean, precise cuts are essential for a polished look, especially around edges or tight spaces.

Step 5: Managing Grout Lines

Large format tiles typically require narrow grout joints to maintain a sleek appearance. Use spacers to ensure even spacing throughout the installation. Consistent joints enhance the final look and simplify the grouting process.

Step 6: Tiling Vertical Surfaces

When tiling walls, start at the bottom and work upwards. Secure each tile in place until the adhesive cures, preventing movement. This technique is crucial for large-size tiles as their weight can cause slipping. Use a rubber mallet to tap tiles into alignment against the wall gently.

Step 7: Final Adjustments

Once all tiles are installed, inspect the floor and wall for any misalignments or air pockets beneath the tiles. Tap lightly with a rubber mallet to fix uneven sections. Proper adjustments ensure the tiles are firmly fixed and ready for grouting.

These steps are essential for tiling large-format tiles on any surface, ensuring durability and a flawless appearance on floors and walls.

Grouting and Finishing Touches

Proper grouting and finishing are crucial for completing your large-format tile project with a professional look.

Grouting Large Tiles

After the adhesive has cured for at least 24 hours, start grouting the tiles. Use a grout suitable for narrow lines to maintain a smooth and polished finish. Spread the grout evenly across each joint using a rubber float, comprehensively covering all gaps.

Pay attention to corners and edges, as these areas require extra care. Wipe away any excess grout with a damp sponge to prevent dirt or residue from hardening on the tile surface.

Sealing the Grout

Sealing the grout is essential, especially in wet areas like a bathroom or shower. It prevents stains, moisture, and dirt from penetrating the grout line, reducing the risk of damage or cracks over time. A properly sealed grout line ensures durability while protecting the tiles.

Polishing the Surface

Once the grout has dried, polish the tiles with a soft, damp cloth to remove haze. This leaves the surface smooth and ensures a clean, professional finish. Avoid skipping this step, as leftover grout can ruin the look of laid tiles.

For edges and corners, take extra care to ensure no mistakes are visible, as these areas complete the overall appearance of the tiled space.

Tips for a Successful Large-Format Tile Installation

Follow these tips to achieve a professional finish with large-format tiles:

• Always check the manufacturer’s recommendations for adhesive and grout to ensure they suit the material and surface.
• Use levelling systems to prevent lipping, which can disrupt the seamless look of the tiles.
• Ensure the surface is clean and even before starting to avoid alignment issues.
• Apply adhesive evenly using a notched trowel to create a strong bond and prevent voids.
• Avoid stepping on freshly installed tiles for at least 24 hours, allowing the adhesive to set correctly.
• Maintain consistent grout lines by using spacers suited for large tiles.
• Clean excess grout with a sponge before it hardens to smooth the surface.
• Hire a professional for complex layouts, corners, or areas around pipes to ensure a flawless result.
• Plan the layout to minimise cuts and create a balanced design.
• Work systematically, completing one section at a time for precision and efficiency.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid these mistakes to achieve a flawless tile installation:

• Skipping surface preparation can result in uneven tiles or poor adhesion.
• Using adhesive that does not suit large-format tiles can cause slipping or cracking.
• Failing to level the space before tiling leads to alignment issues.
• Forgetting to leave movement joints can result in cracks over time.
• Cutting tiles inaccurately can leave gaps around pipes or edges.
• Applying adhesive unevenly with a trowel affects how well tiles are fixed.
• Rushing grouting before the adhesive has cured weakens the overall structure.
• Leaving grout lines inconsistent ruins the polished appearance.
• Not cleaning excess grout with a sponge can leave residue on the surface.
• Ignoring proper curing time for grout and adhesive risks long-term durability.

Transform Your Space with Expert Tiling Services

Large-format tiles can completely transform a space, adding a sleek, modern, stylish, practical touch. However, to get the best results, proper installation is crucial.

At Xcel Tiling, we bring expertise and attention to detail to every project. Whether upgrading your home or refreshing a commercial space, our team ensures a flawless finish every time. Get in touch today, and let’s create something amazing together.