The Pros and Cons of Large Tiles for Flooring: An Expert Guide
As flooring specialists at Waters Flooring Center in Winterville, NC, we often receive inquiries about the use of large tiles for flooring projects. Large tiles, typically defined as those with a side length of 18 inches or more, have become increasingly popular in both residential and commercial settings. However, like any flooring option, they come with their own set of advantages and disadvantages. In this article, we’ll explore the pros and cons of using large tiles on floors to help you make an informed decision for your space.
Pros of Using Large Tiles on Floors
- Aesthetic Appeal: Large tiles offer a sleek, modern look that can make a room appear more spacious and open. With fewer grout lines, they create a seamless and clean appearance that can enhance the overall aesthetic of your space.
- Low Maintenance: With fewer grout lines, large tiles are easier to clean and maintain compared to smaller tiles. This makes them an ideal choice for areas that require frequent cleaning, such as kitchens and bathrooms.
- Durability: Large tiles are often made from sturdy materials like porcelain or natural stone, which are known for their durability and resistance to wear and tear. This makes them a long-lasting flooring option for high-traffic areas.
- Versatility: Available in a wide range of colors, textures, and finishes, large tiles can be used to create various design styles, from contemporary to traditional.
Cons of Using Large Tiles on Floors
- Installation Challenges: Large tiles can be more difficult to install than smaller tiles, requiring a perfectly level subfloor and experienced installers. Any imperfections in the installation can lead to lippage, where edges of the tiles are uneven.
- Higher Cost: Due to the additional labor and skill required for installation, as well as the potential for more waste during cutting, large tiles can be more expensive to install than smaller tiles.
- Limited Design Flexibility: While large tiles offer a sleek look, they may not be suitable for smaller rooms or spaces with many angles and corners, as cutting large tiles to fit these areas can be challenging and may detract from their aesthetic appeal.
- Transportation and Handling: Large tiles are heavier and more cumbersome to transport and handle, increasing the risk of damage during transit and installation.
Large tiles can offer a stunning and modern look to your floors, with the added benefits of durability and low maintenance. However, they do come with certain challenges, such as installation difficulties and higher costs. At Waters Flooring Center in Winterville, NC, we recommend considering the size of your space, your design preferences, and your budget before deciding on large tiles for your flooring project. Our team of experts is here to help you navigate these considerations and find the perfect flooring solution for your needs.
