Large Format Tiles: Everything you Got to Know.
What is a Large Format Tile?
As the tile industry grew with the passing of time through new technologies, the definition of a large format tile has changed to “any tile that includes a minimum of one edge greater than 15 inches.” Large-format tiles are available in square or rectangular shapes, made from ceramic, porcelain, or stone options. They can be used as wall as well as floor tiles.
One of the foremost important design elements in large format tiles is that there's less grout area. As the tile itself provides more coverage with the help of its size, it requires less grout area between the tiles so it’s much easier to achieve a crisp, unified look in the design. Grout joints almost disappear within the design and make a wallpaper effect. For walls, large format tiles are often a durable alternative to paint or wallpaper, and guess what the added advantage is? There’s no repainting or worrying about staining your wallpaper within the near future.
Easy to Clean and Maintain
Now that we've mentioned that large format tiles result in fewer grout lines, it also means that there will be less maintenance required to keep your tiles clean and tidy. We all know that whether it’s the wall or floor tile, grout cleaning always seems like a challenge.
Every time you are taking a shower or cooking an important meal, your bathroom or kitchen tiles are more likely to become stained or mildewed if not kept clean. Or, consider when the dirt is tracked between tiles when dirty paws run across your floors. Deep cleaning of grout lines has always been a time-consuming task, but not anymore with large format tiles.
No matter where you install, large format tile provides the easiest cleaning routine to keep your tiles clean and prevent future damage. So if you wish to say goodbye to this time-consuming activity, we advise you to think about large format tiles in your home in order that you spend less time cleaning and more time enjoying your home.
Aesthetic Advantages of Using Large Format Tiles
Apart from the practicality of these tiles, large format tiles also come with multiple aesthetic advantages for homeowners.
First, the large and sleek design of these tiles ends up providing a more modern look in the space. Large-format tiles create a large surface and provide your space a more contemporary edge. Moreover, thanks to the advances in digital printing, large format porcelain tiles can bring the design of just about any material, including natural stone, concrete, metal, wood, or maybe fabrics. It is now easier to form clean, sleek, and modern aesthetics in a space with a range of large format tiles. For an additional modern effect, you can get similar types of floor tiles and extend them up the wall.
In open spaces, large format tiles give the eyes relief from distracting grout lines, making the space look bigger. The visual interruption is reduced with fewer grout joints and creates a more cohesive look. Keep in mind that when large format tiles are used horizontally, they create the illusion of a wider space. But if you'd want to form your walls to look taller, you'll install large tiles in a very vertical way for a more exaggerated look.
You may have heard about the myth that using large format tiles within a small space will make your room seem small. Well, regardless of what size room you have got, using large format tiles will always give the illusion of additional space. So don’t be afraid to use them in small spaces! Plus, using a similar tile both on the ground and wall will be a decent idea for a more unified look in your small space. Another tip that will help make your space look even bigger is employing a grout color that matches your large format tiles, as this may allow the grout lines to blend in with the décor and not distracts the eyes.
Important Points to Remember
Large-format tiles have grown from the old 12”x12” to several different size options. From wood planks in sizes like 6”x24” or 6”x36” to large squares and rectangles, there are many sizes to decide from. Determine the correct size based on the required feel in your room. For example, if you're searching for a large format tile that's large enough to make your room appear spacious but won’t overwhelm the space, you'll opt for the most popular size of 12”x24”, which could be a gratifying choice for many spaces. In a large entryway or living room, you'll be able to go along with larger floor tiles for a more modern and unified look.
As a final tip, make sure to decide on the right mortar to confirm the protection of your surfaces. Due to the weight of the large format tiles, using mortars that are specially formulated for these tiles is extremely crucial. Unlike small size porcelain tiles that are installed by using a thin set, large format tiles need a medium-bed mortar, since the thin set has the tendency to shrink because it dries. Medium-bed mortars will resist shrinkage, ensure a secure bond, and compensate for irregularities in tile and substrate.
If you are looking for large format tiles, you should definitely check out Orientbell Tiles and their collection. You will find some amazing options in whatever size you seek. The tiles you select, reach you with utmost care and precision. The best part about the website is the detailed and to-the-point filters that are available. They’ll help you reach your desired product in no time and in a hassle-free manner. Tiling your new space should always be a fun process rather than being a tedious one. Happy Tiling, everyone!!