Large-format tiles: pros and cons

Large-format tiles, generally tiles with at least one side of 600 mm or more, are popular in open-plan living areas and modern bathrooms. They look striking, but they are not the right choice for every space.

The advantages

• Fewer grout lines, giving a calmer, more continuous look and less grout to clean.
• A sense of space. Larger tiles can make rooms feel bigger and more open.
• Feature potential. Large panels suit stone-look walls and floors where pattern continuity matters.

The demands

• Flat surfaces. Large tiles show unevenness. The floor or wall often needs extra levelling or screeding before tiling.
• Full adhesive coverage. Back-buttering and the right trowel help avoid hollow spots that can crack later.
• Lippage control. Levelling systems are commonly used to keep tile edges flush.
• Handling and access. Big tiles are heavy and can break if mishandled; access through doors, stairs and lifts matters.
• Falls in wet areas. On shower floors, large tiles are harder to lay to falls. Smaller tiles or linear drains are often used there.

When a smaller tile may suit better

Small rooms with many corners and penetrations, shower floors with falls in several directions, and older surfaces that cannot be levelled economically often suit smaller formats.

The bottom line

Large-format tiles reward careful preparation. When you ask for a quote, mention the tile size so the tiler can allow for surface preparation and handling. See our residential tiling or request a free quote.

More guides

• How to Prepare for a Tiling Quote
• What Affects the Cost of Bathroom Tiling

General information only. It is not a quotation or professional advice for your specific job.