12×24 tiles are an extremely popular large format tile size. However, working with them may be a little different than what you are used to.
Large format tile is considered to be any tile with one side longer than 15″. Since their inception into the tile world, large format tile has not only grown in popularity, but also in size. From 24×24 all the way up to 40×120, larger tiles are all the rage (including popular wood-look plank tiles).
Generally, it is recommended to choose tiles that are 4" or smaller for small bathrooms because it's easier to contour around fixtures and appears visually proportioned in a smaller space. Another great option is to go for a more modern design, such as using large format tiles (12"x24").
A small 3x6” tile can be set with a 1/16” or 1/8” line, while a mid-size tile like 6x12” or 13x13” would be better with an 1/8” grout line. A large tile, such as 12x24”, usually requires a 3/16” grout line, so it's best to check the manufacturer's recommendations to see how small you can go.
Straight Horizontal Layout
But with a rectangular 12x24 tile like Graphite Focus Porcelain, you still have to decide which direction you want to take. Laying this mid-tone gray tile flooring in a horizontal straight pattern gives the illusion that your space is wider than it really is.
Mixing 3 or more sizes together and creating a tile pattern from it can give your room the feel of being larger than it is. One of the more popular tile patterns that uses 3 or more sizes is called a Versailles Pattern. This pattern will help create a feel of expansiveness which in turn will make you room feel bigger.
Double herringbone is created by connecting two rectangular shaped tiles with each other. This pattern is not commonly installed because it can be a difficult layout to perfect.
It is something that should be addressed prior to installation by designing a pattern that will allow for that size / shape tile. Instead of a 50% stagger, manufacturers recommend these tiles should be designed with patterns that do not exceed a 33% stagger.
GROUT JOINT SIZE FOR LARGE AND HEAVY TILE
Daltile recommends that large tiles have a 1/8” or 3/16” minimum grout joint for the most successful installation. The difference is not really noticeable visually, but can make a big difference to the quality of the installation.
Using large tiles makes a small room appear bigger
Got a small room you wish could appear bigger. Simply flip the catalogue to lighter colored larger tiles. This simple truth about tiles is something people wouldn't normally believe unless they actually see it.
Consider Large Format Tile in Small Bathrooms
The larger the tile, the fewer grout joints you'll have and the greater sense of spaciousness you'll feel. Take this notion to an extreme and you might have just one very large format tile in that small space. Remember, though, that you can have fun with grout colors.
6×8 and 8×10 wall tile sizes are commonly used in bathroom installations these days. Then, the 12×12 and 12×24 wall and floor tiles also become popular sizes. As a matter of fact, you should select the bathroom ceramic wall tile according to the size of your bathroom.
Bathroom Floor Tile Sizes
Conventional 12-inch by 12-inch tile is often used on bathroom floors because it is easy to cut on wet tile saws as well as with rail tile cutters. A tile of this size also means that you will end up with a decent number of full-size tiles even in the smallest bathroom.
Larger Tiles Make Small Rooms Appear Bigger
Because grout lines are thinner and fewer as part of the layout, smaller rooms appear bigger when using larger tiles. Large-format tiles make floors look more streamlined – therefore, creating the illusion of more space.
1-foot square tiles may be among the top contenders for the most popular tile size. This option is very commonly used on floors, especially in bathrooms and kitchens. You'll also find 12-inch tiles in entryways and living areas.
Larger tiles have fewer grout lines, thereby offering a smooth and visually appealing surface. Almost any room will look more open and expansive with large-format floor tiles. Longer rectangular tiles will draw the eye toward the more distant parts of a room and create the illusion of more space.
One of the primary drawbacks of large format tiles is that they require skilled professionals for installation. Because these tiles are larger and heavier than standard tiles, they can be difficult to handle and install. This means that installation costs can be higher than with smaller tiles.
As a rule of thumb, bigger tiles make the room seem bigger. A 16'' or 18'' tile will make the room feel larger than a 12” tile. To further enhance the sense of space, choose grout lines that match the color of the tiles. This eliminates the interruption between tiles, expanding the illusion of space.
In general, large format tiles tend to have more lippage and unevenness on the surface, therefore a wider grout joint is necessary to ensure the safety of your tiles.
Lippage can be significant when tile with warpage issues is installed at a 50% offset. The outcome is aesthetically unsightly and unsafe for pedestrians. Warpage or bowing can take place during the manufacturing of fired tile products like ceramic and porcelain tile.
Is it cheaper to lay large or small tiles? While larger tiles may cover more area than small tiles, they are harder to install, requiring two people to carry and a solid technical understanding of tiling. These challenges mean they are more time-consuming to lay, so your tiler may charge extra for them.
But once the job is finished, there is a curing process to follow. The curation generally occurs in about twenty minutes; however, the tiles should not be walked on for a solid 24-hour time frame to allow them to set fully. It is a crucial period that will ensure the beauty and endurance of the materials.
White subway tile in a shower or bath will never age, Winn says. For floors, penny tile — white or black and white — is still found in homes built in the 1950s and '60s in North Arlington, Va., Winn says, but clients are also asking for it in new bathrooms.
Brick Tile Pattern
The classic brick lay is a great pattern for DIY as it is the easiest to install and you will have the least cuts or waste. This pattern however is less ideal for bowed tiles which many distributors will inform you of.