Large-format natural stone tile can transform a space with fewer grout lines and a more seamless look. It also asks more of the surface underneath and the team installing it. Use this guide to plan with confidence before you order.
Why Large-Format Tile Needs Extra Planning
The larger the tile, the more visible any unevenness in the floor or wall becomes. A small dip that would disappear under mosaic or standard-size tile can cause uneven edges, known as lippage, across a large-format tile. Layout, setting materials, handling, and delivery also matter more as tile size increases.
A little preparation up front helps you avoid delays, extra cost, and disappointing results. Share this guide with your installer, contractor, or designer before your order is placed.
Your Readiness Checklist
Work through these six areas before ordering and again before installation begins.
Check Surface Flatness
Measure the floor or wall before you order. Industry guidelines for tile with an edge of 15 inches or longer call for a much flatter surface than standard tile. Ask your installer to check it and correct any high or low spots first.
Confirm Lippage Expectations
Discuss acceptable lippage with your installer before work starts. Natural stone is cut and finished by hand to a degree, and the installation method has a large effect on the final result. A leveling system can help keep tile edges aligned.
Choose the Right Setting Materials
Use a mortar designed for large-format tile and natural stone, and plan for full coverage on the back of each tile. For light marble and other light-colored stone, ask your installer about a white setting material to help prevent show-through.
Plan Your Layout
Lay out the room before setting any tile. Decide where cuts will fall, how the pattern will run, and where movement joints are needed. Blend tiles from several boxes as you work, since natural stone varies in veining and tone.
Order Enough Material
Large tiles produce more waste at edges and cuts. Many installers recommend adding 10 to 15 percent for cuts and breakage, and more for complex layouts. Keep a few spare tiles for future repairs.
Prepare for Delivery & Handling
Large-format tile is heavy. Confirm who will receive the delivery, where it can be stored safely and indoors, and how it will be moved. Carry tile on its edge and handle it with care to prevent chipping.
Before You Order & Before You Install
Before You Order
- Measure the space and confirm tile size, layout, and quantity
- Ask your installer to inspect the floor or wall flatness
- Request samples to review color, finish, and natural variation
- Confirm trims, liners, and baseboards needed to finish the edges
- Decide who will receive and store the delivery
Before Installation Starts
- Inspect every box on delivery and note any damage right away
- Open several boxes and check that color and finish match your approved sample
- Let your installer dry-lay a section to confirm the layout
- Confirm the surface has been prepared and corrected as needed
- Keep spare tile and the product details for future repairs
Please note: This guide offers general planning information, not a substitute for professional installation advice. Always follow your installer's recommendations, the setting material manufacturer's instructions, and current Tile Council of North America (TCNA) guidelines for your specific project.
Samples, Shipping & Project Support
Natural stone varies from tile to tile, so we always recommend reviewing samples before you commit to a full order. Samples ship free, and the cost of your samples is credited toward your completed purchase. Orders over $3,500 ship free, which often includes large-format projects.
Our team can help with quantities, trims, freight planning, and product questions for residential and trade projects of any size.
Planning a Large-Format Project?
Order samples, ask us about quantities and trims, or get help planning your project before you buy.