Mainland UK
Extra large floor tiles – a buying guide
Jo Gilhooly
Extra large floor tiles - a buying guide
What size is an extra large floor tile? Typically, large format modern floor tiles are over a 600 x 600mm size, and as manufacturing technology continues to innovate, tiles are getting larger and larger so we now see tiles that are 800 x 800, 900 x 900, 1200 x 600 and 1200 x 1200 becoming the go-to sizes for projects.
Picking the right size tile for your project and knowing how big you go, may seem a little daunting. So check out our buying guide below to extra large floor tiles. It's full of useful information and tips!
1. Does tile size matter?
In a nutshell, yes it does.
The size of tile you choose can have a dramatic impact on your overall design. Tiling with extra large format tiles means there are fewer grout lines and that gives a more minimal feel. Extra large floor tiles really can make a space feel more spacious. That's because regardless of the size of your space or room, smaller tiles with more grout lines can make a space look and feel more busy.
The latest modern floor tiles have rectified or straight edges, that means minimal grout lines - as minimal as 3mm. Making grout lines almost "disappear" by using the same colour grout as the tile - or the closest match possible - makes floors look almost seamless.
Picking a grout colour that is similar to your extra large floor tiles can help make floors appear seamless
2. Budget Considerations
Larger tiles can tend to be more expensive, so you are likely to pay more for a 1200 x 1200mm tile than a 600 x 600mm tile from the same collection. However, opting for a "half-way" size option eg a 900 x 900 tiles size for example can still give you that large floor tile but without the really high price tag of a 1200 x 1200mm.
It is also worth thinking about installation. Some tiles really are a 2 man lift - or more - so considering the combination of design as well as things like handling and installation can help you make an informed decision. We would always recommend employing the services of a qualified and experienced tile fitter - and that is especially so with extra large floor tiles.
3. What is the best extra large floor tile size?
Every one of our collections features a large format tile whether that is an 800 x 800, 900 x 900, 1000 x 1000 or 1200 x 1200 option with the addition of 1200 x 600 for those wanting to opt for a rectangular tile. Some of our collections even feature a huge 1510 x 750mm extra large tile.
Even our wood planks are large format at an amazing 1510 x 240mm size.
We've looked at each tile size in our guide below starting with 800 x 800mm.
800 x 800mm
A lovely tile size that is big enough to feel large format, yet still easy enough to handle from an installation perspective. It's just that bit larger than a typical 600 x 600mm tile and with rectified tile edges and minimal grout lines makes a great canvas for any room.
900 x 900mm
One of the best size options. Our 900 x 900mm extra large floor tiles feel big and luxurious and won't break the budget with regard to cost.
1000 x 1000mm
As tile size increases, thickness reduces so our 1000 x 1000 mm extra large floor tiles are in 8mm thickness and our Beat collection is actually in a 6mm thickness.
With thinner porcelains it is more important than ever to ensure substrates are suitably prepared and tiles are installed into a full bed of adhesive.
1200 x 1200mm
If you are seeking something very special then this is the size.
These really are big tiles so require come careful consideration from a lifting and installation perspective. Pallets are also deemed 'oversize' so there are some additional cost considerations for deliveries sometimes, but if you can stretch to it, this is a hard tile size to beat. It just has luxury written all over it.
1200 x 600mm
Most of our collections feature a 1200 x 600mm tile size. 1200 x 600mm is a good option if you like the larger format but don't want to quite stretch to the 1200 x 1200mm size. A 1200 x 600mm comes on a standard euro pallet too so is a little more cost effective than it's larger counterpart when it comes to delivery.
With rectangular tiles you will need to think about the direction you run your tiles as well as the pattern. You may want to stack the tiles or you may decide to stagger in brick bond pattern. If you do opt for the latter, the overlap should not exceed 33%.
This is because all porcelain from the most cost effective to more expensive tiles have a slight curve along their length. If the staggering is more then you can end up with something called lippage where the tiles are not flush.
Overlap not exceeding 33% for larger tiles
1510 x 240mm
Our large format porcelain planks are so realistic. For wide plank porcelain tiles the classic way to install is with staggered joints. This makes for the most realistic look and finish. For any tiles with a length of more than 600mm it is important not to stagger the joints by more than 33% This is the maximum overlap that is recommended.
Season Taupe 1510 x 240mm planks.
Want to know more about our extra large floor tiles? Click on the links below the images to find out more about our collections. You can order samples via our website or get in touch with us. We'd be delighted to help with your project.
The TilePortfolio specialise in Italian and Spanish Porcelain and Ceramic tiles, in particular large format Porcelains and Porcelain tiles for inside and outside. Our carefully curated, stunning tile portfolios are beautifully presented online and supported by our fuss-free ‘go-the -extra-tile’ service and tile consultancy service. Visit our website for unmissable interiors inspiration or visit our Northamptonshire Showroom. The TilePortfolio team are always available to chat, we’d be delighted to help with your project so please do get in touch. www.thetileportfolio.co.uk.
Please note: We strongly recommend using a professional tiler for your project. Installation requirements may vary depending on the tiles you choose, the fixing products used and the specific conditions. Always check with your tiler regards the suitability of the tiles.
Please get in touch with us if you have any questions.
