Bathrooms are a place of luxury and peace. And if you’ve been browsing Pinterest or design blogs recently, you’ve undoubtedly come across a new trend in shower design, that is, large-format shower tiles. These elongated, sleek slabs bring a modern look and feel to shower walls. But are they the right choice for your house? Let’s understand this in detail.
Large-format tiles have completely transformed living spaces, surpassing the traditional look. The huge size creates impressive shower enclosures, walls that match the current designs of the industry. The continuous surface of these tiles visually expands a room, making it appear larger than it is. They deliver a flawless look with individual desire thanks to fewer grout lines and a finish that is simple to upkeep. These large tiles beautifully mimic the appearance of natural stone or marble.
What Are Large Format Tiles?
Large format tiles, in simple words, are defined as any tile where at least one side measures over 15 inches. This category encompasses a broad range of dimensions, from common sizes like 12”x 24 and 24” x 48”. The look of these tiles is their strength to create a consistent, nearly seamless artistic that visibly enlarge a space.
Common dimensions considered large format include:
- 12” x 24”
- 18” x 36”
- 36” x 36”
- 24” x 48”
- 48” x 48”
Benefits of Large Format Shower Tile
So why are these large-format tiles a favorite for many? Let’s understand in detail the benefits these tiles offer:
Unmatched Beauty:
Large format Shower Tiles gives any bathroom a sleek, modern look. Their large surface area offers an uncluttered look, providing the room with an open and rich look. They can even give the impression of more space in smaller bathrooms, which is a magical design trick.
Simple Maintenance:
Nobody enjoys cleaning grout, let’s face it. Large tiles significantly cut down on grout lines, requiring less cleaning. It hides spots for fungus growth. It keeps your shower cleaner and more hygienic.
Unmatched Durability:
These tiles are durable in addition to being attractive. Large-format porcelain and ceramic tiles are resistant to stains, moisture, chipping, and cracking. They look flawless for years if installed correctly.
Enhanced Property Value:
Increase your property by installing these large-format tiles. A well-designed shower can be a big selling point, and buyers adore the harmonious, stylish appearance.
Tips for Installation
Large-format tile installation requires precision and patience. Below are the important points to keep in mind for installing the tiles:
1. Preparing the Surface:
The substrate needs to be completely level. This helps to prevent lippage, or uneven tile edges, that result from simple flaws. Since it is more obvious with larger tiles, better to be precautionary.
2. Choose the correct Adhesive:
Make use of high-quality thin-set mortar made for large-format tiles. Certain adhesives are made especially to hold up heavier tiles and keep them from bending.
3. Systems for Leveling Tiles:
Incorporate a leveling system to keep tiles uniform and prevent lippage issues. Use a self-leveling compound if necessary.
- Cutting Techniques:
Wet saws or tile cutters with extended rails are usually used to cut large tiles. Specific cutting methods like relief cuts or envelope cuts are required to manage proper slope and water drainage for the shower space.
- Grout Selection:
Choosing the same color grout will give a uniform look, while a bold or contrasting shade will provide a dramatic look.
Inspiration for Style and Design
Are you prepared to dream a little? Large format tiles can be used in your shower in these gorgeous ways:
- The stone-look porcelain replicates the beauty of slate or marble without the upkeep.
- Matte finishes give a sleek, contemporary look that goes well with metal fixtures.
- Create appealing accent walls with complementary hues or textures.
- For a unified aesthetic on your tile niches, use recessed shelves with contrasting or matching tiles
- For a spa-like retreat, combine these tiles with earthy textures, cozy lighting, and simple fittings.
Maintenance Tips for Large Format Shower Tile
Large format shower tiles are celebrated not only for their sleek aesthetics but also for their ease of upkeep. With fewer grout lines and expansive surfaces, they naturally resist grime and buildup better than smaller tiles. However, to keep your shower looking as pristine as the day it was installed, a few simple maintenance habits go a long way:
1. Seal Grout Lines Every Year:
Grout may be limited in large-format tile installations, but it still plays a crucial role in preserving your shower from moisture. Water absorption by unsealed grout can gradually cause fading, the growth of mold, as well as structural damage below the tiles. A barrier of protection that deters moisture and stains is created by applying an excellent grout sealer once a year. For optimal outcomes:
- Go with a penetrating sealer for thorough protection.
- Before sealing, thoroughly clean the grout.
- After application, give it enough time to dry.
2. Make use of pH-neutral cleaners:
Over time, harsh substances can break down grout and discolor tile finishes. Use pH-neutral cleaners made especially for tile surfaces instead. Without sacrificing the firmness of your tiles, these mild products efficiently get rid of mold, soap residue, and solid mineral deposits. Avoid using products with bleach or acid because they can dull or etch natural stone or shiny surfaces.
3. Clean up after every shower:
The accumulation of soap scum, water stains, and mildew can be considerably reduced with an instant clean-up after each shower. To get rid of extra water from tile surfaces, use a sponge or microfiber towel. This easy practice prolongs the life of your caulking and grout while additionally maintaining your shower looking brand new. Consider using an everyday shower cleaner that avoids residue buildup for extra freshness.
Does It Make Sense for Your House? Important Questions to Ask
Before beginning your tile shopping, consider the following:
- What is the size and design of your bathroom? With careful planning, large tiles can be made to fit smaller spaces, but they look best in medium-to-large ones.
- Are you planning a refresh or a complete remodel? Because of their installation requirements, large-format tiles are perfect for complete renovations.
- How much do you have to spend? Take labor and material costs into account.
- Which fashion? contemporary or traditional, which do you prefer? Make sure these tiles fit with your artistic vision because they lean toward modernity.
Final Thoughts
One of the biggest visual changes you can make to your bathroom is the large-format tile shower, which requires commitment. The compromise is obvious: unparalleled aesthetic luxury and considerably lower long-term maintenance are given up for higher initial costs and complexity.
A well-executed large-format tile shower can transform your house into a stunning, spa-like retreat that will enhance it for many years. However, keep in mind that the skill of the tile-laying crew or your smartness while you DIY is what determines success and adds up to the ‘wow’ factor.