Large format tile offers sleek aesthetics, fewer grout lines, and easy maintenance—but requires precise subfloor prep and special tools.
This guide from Floor Daddy in Phoenix, Arizona breaks it down.
Large format tile offers sleek aesthetics, fewer grout lines, and easy maintenance—but requires precise subfloor prep and special tools.
This guide from Floor Daddy in Phoenix, Arizona breaks it down.
Large format tile refers to tiles measuring at least 15″ on one side—common sizes are 24″×24″, 12″×48″, and larger.
These larger dimensions mean fewer grout lines, producing a modern, seamless look.
In Glendale, homeowners appreciate how this style complements open-concept living rooms or remodeled kitchens, giving spaces a clean, upscale appearance.
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Fewer grout lines = smoother visual flow. This suits modern kitchen or bathroom designs in neighborhoods like Arrowhead Ranch or Downtown Glendale perfectly.
With wider tiles and minimal grout, cleaning takes less time and grout stays fresher longer—no need for heavy-duty cleaners yet.
High-quality large format porcelain resists staining and cracking. Many brands offer 20–30 year warranties—ideal for busy households.
Large tiles make rooms appear bigger—great for compact spaces around the Historic District.
Buy now and pay overtime! We offer several different financing programs.
Check and level the subfloor: must be flat within 1/8″ over 10 feet. In Glendale, homes near desert washes may need extra leveling.
Use crawl space vapor barrier: especially in older homes; prevents moisture issues.
Select the right thin-set and back-buttering tools: large tiles are heavy—back-buttering fills voids and supports weight.
Hire installers experienced with big tiles: misalignment can cause lippage (uneven edges).
While cutting and placement may take extra time due to size and weight, wiping grout and cleaning require less effort.
A typical 200 sq ft kitchen or bathroom takes about 3–4 days from prep to grout curing (vs. 2–3 days with smaller tiles).
Skipping subfloor prep: leads to cracked tiles or uneven appearance.
Using the wrong mortar: use medium-bed (large-format rated) thin-set, not standard thin-set.
Installing without a leveling device: can cause lippage. A simple 1/32″ uneven edge is visible under foot traffic.
Neglecting expansion joints: large tiles grow slightly; without joints, countertops and walls can crack.
Our installation teams are licensed, insured, and screened regularly.
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| Cost Component | Range (Glendale, AZ) |
|---|---|
| Tile Material | $5–$15 per sq ft |
| Medium-bed Thin-set | $30–$40 (bag covers ~75 sq ft) |
| Additional prep (leveler) | $1–$3 per sq ft |
| Professional install | $8–$15 per sq ft |
A 200‑sq‑ft remodel may range from $3,600 to $7,000 total, depending on prep needs and tile choice.
Return on investment shows in added property appeal—especially condos near Westgate.
We bring large flooring samples to your home for free!
Do you have experience with large format tile? Ask for before/after images.
Will you perform a full subfloor inspection? Prevents later issues.
Which thin-set and grout do you use? Ensure they’re rated for large tiles.
Get a timeline with milestones. Ideal: Demolition → Prep → Tile → Grouting → Sealing.
Request a written warranty and satisfaction commitment. Floor Daddy offers follow-up walk-through after 3 months.
Floor Daddy delivers expert installation, precise prep, and 5-star local service across Phoenix neighborhoods like Catlin Court and Foothills West.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ “The difference is real—the large tiles made our kitchen feel huge and elegant.” – Local homeowner review.
We also offer related services: waterproofing, backsplash installation, and grout sealing.
Pretty much any tile with one side longer than 15″—so that includes 16″×16″, 24″×48″, even massive slabs. Common sizes like 24×24 or 12×48 fall in this category, making them perfect for sleek, modern looks.
Fewer grout lines means a smoother surface and easier cleaning—less grout = less grime buildup. Plus, they make the room feel bigger by showing more continuous pattern or texture.
Yes, they’re heavier and can crack during transport or installation if mishandled. That’s why taking care during delivery and relying on skilled installers is key.
Your subfloor must be really flat, with less than ⅛″ deviation over 10 feet—ANSI standards recommend this. You’ll likely need a self-leveling underlayment or patching compound to get there.
Yes! Standard thin-set often shrinks and can cause uneven tiles (called “lippage”). Instead, use a medium-bed, polymer-modified mortar meeting ANSI A118.4/A118.15 for full coverage.
A larger notch—like a ½″ square notch—is often recommended. It ensures enough mortar gets under the tile for a solid bond and helps prevent voids.
Walls? Sure—with proper adhesive and back-buttering. Shower floors? It can work, but some pros say smaller tiles give better grip and fewer slip-risk issues.
Grout width depends on tile tolerance. Recommendations suggest at least 3× the variation in the tile’s dimensions—but no less than 1/16″.
Yep! Fewer grout breaks create the illusion of more space. If your grout matches the tile color, grout lines almost disappear, visually expanding the room.
They can be—tile prices are higher than smaller versions, plus you’ll likely pay more for labor, specialized mortar, leveling prep, and handling.
