Walk into any newly renovated home or modern showroom in Scarborough today and you will notice something immediately — the tiles are bigger. Much bigger. Large format tiles, once reserved for high-end commercial spaces and luxury hotels, have firmly taken over residential design in 2026, and homeowners across Canada are embracing the trend in a big way.
But what exactly makes large format tiles so appealing? And are they the right choice for your home? This guide covers everything you need to know — from the benefits and best applications to what you need to install them correctly.
What Are Large Format Tiles?
Large format tiles are generally defined as any tile measuring 15 inches (380mm) or more on at least one side. In 2026, the most popular sizes being installed in homes include 24×24 inches, 24×48 inches, and even 48×48 inches for high-impact feature floors and walls.
Porcelain and ceramic are the most common materials used for large format tiles, with porcelain being the preferred choice for its density, low water absorption, and durability. If you are exploring your options, our tile collection includes a wide range of porcelain, ceramic, and granite tiles suited for large format applications.
Why Large Format Tiles Are Taking Over in 2026
1. They Make Spaces Look Bigger
This is the number one reason homeowners are making the switch. Fewer grout lines mean less visual interruption across a floor or wall surface, which creates an unbroken, expansive look that makes any room feel significantly larger. For smaller bathrooms, narrow hallways, and open-plan living areas in Scarborough homes, this effect is transformative.
2. Cleaner, More Modern Aesthetic
Interior design trends in 2026 lean heavily toward minimalism — clean lines, open spaces, and surfaces that don’t draw unnecessary attention to themselves. Large format tiles align perfectly with this direction. A floor laid with 24×48 porcelain slabs looks sleek and contemporary in a way that smaller mosaic or 12×12 tiles simply cannot replicate.
3. Easier to Clean and Maintain
Fewer grout lines means fewer places for dirt, mould, and bacteria to accumulate. For busy families and homeowners who want low-maintenance surfaces, large format tiles are a practical solution. Combined with the right flooring tools and accessories for proper installation and sealing, these tiles can look pristine with minimal upkeep for years.
4. Versatility Across Rooms and Surfaces
Large format tiles work on floors, walls, shower enclosures, kitchen backsplashes, and even outdoor terraces. The same tile used on a bathroom floor can be carried up the wall to create a seamless, spa-like finish. This design continuity is one of the most coveted looks in residential renovation right now.
5. Adds Real Estate Value
Tile upgrades, especially large format installations, consistently return strong value in home resale. Buyers in 2026 are actively seeking modern, low-maintenance finishes, and a large format tile floor or feature wall immediately signals quality and contemporary design.
Best Rooms for Large Format Tiles
Bathrooms — The most popular application. Large format tiles in a bathroom reduce grout lines dramatically, making the space easier to clean and visually larger. A 24×48 tile on both the floor and shower walls creates a seamless, hotel-inspired finish.
Living Rooms and Open-Plan Areas — A 24×24 or larger porcelain tile across an open-plan living and dining area creates a flowing, cohesive look that ties the space together without interruption. Pair with vinyl flooring in adjacent rooms for a smooth transition between spaces.
Kitchens — Large format tiles on the kitchen floor or as a full-height backsplash add drama and visual interest. Their stain resistance and ease of cleaning make them especially practical in a kitchen environment.
Entryways and Hallways — First impressions matter. A large format tile in the entryway immediately elevates the feel of the entire home and sets the tone for the rest of the interior.
Feature Walls — Large format tiles are increasingly being used on living room feature walls and fireplace surrounds as an alternative to traditional wall moulding or paint finishes, creating a bold architectural statement.
What You Need to Install Large Format Tiles Correctly
Large format tiles are heavier and less forgiving than standard tiles, which means proper installation is critical. Here is what every homeowner and contractor needs to know:
Subfloor Preparation Is Everything
Large format tiles require a perfectly flat, level subfloor. Any variation greater than 3mm over a 3-metre span will cause tiles to crack or rock — a problem known as lippage. This is the most common mistake made during large format tile installation and the most expensive to fix after the fact.
You Need a Tile Levelling System
A tile levelling system is non-negotiable for large format tile installations. These systems use clips and wedges to hold adjacent tiles at the same height during the adhesive curing process, eliminating lippage and ensuring a flat, professional finish. Our tile tools range includes complete tile levelling systems, clips, wedges, and floor pliers specifically designed for large format tile work.
Use the Right Tile Cutter
Standard tile cutters are not designed for tiles larger than a certain size. For tiles up to 36 inches (900mm), a professional manual tile cutter is the right tool. Visit our flooring tools and accessories for the right cutting equipment to match your tile size.
Grout Line Size Matters
One of the visual advantages of large format tiles is the ability to use very thin grout lines — as small as 1mm to 2mm — which enhances the seamless look. The grout line size you choose will depend on the tile’s rectified edges and the levelness of your subfloor.
Large Format Tiles vs. Standard Tiles: A Quick Comparison
| Factor | Large Format Tiles | Standard Tiles |
|---|---|---|
| Visual impact | High — seamless, modern look | Moderate |
| Room size effect | Makes spaces feel larger | Neutral |
| Grout lines | Fewer, thinner | More, wider |
| Cleaning ease | Easier | More grout to maintain |
| Installation difficulty | Higher — needs levelling system | Standard |
| Design versatility | Floor, wall, feature surfaces | Primarily floor |
| Trending in 2026 | ✓ Yes | Moderate |
Tips for Choosing the Right Large Format Tile
- Match the tile size to the room size. A 48×48 tile in a small powder room can feel overwhelming. As a rule, the tile should not be wider than half the shortest wall in the room.
- Consider the finish. Matte and satin finishes are more forgiving in high-traffic areas because they hide footprints and surface scratches better than polished tiles.
- Check the tile’s rectification. Rectified tiles have precisely cut edges that allow for very tight grout lines, which is what gives large format installations their signature seamless look.
- Think about the full renovation picture. Large format tiles pair beautifully with hardwood flooring in adjacent rooms, laminate in lower-traffic areas, and modern bathroom fittings for a cohesive interior design throughout your home.
Are Large Format Tiles Right for Your Home?
If you want a modern, low-maintenance, visually expansive finish that adds genuine value to your home, large format tiles are one of the best investments you can make in 2026. They work across virtually every room, pair well with a wide range of interior styles, and when installed correctly, they last for decades.
The key is getting the installation right from the start — the right subfloor preparation, the right adhesive, the right levelling system, and the right tools. If you are unsure where to begin, our team at Bella Flooring Plus is here to guide you through every step.
Want to learn more about flooring options for your home? Read our guide on Types of Flooring: A Buyer’s Guide to Picking the Right Flooring Material or explore Low-Maintenance Tile Trends For Busy Families for more inspiration.
Explore More Flooring Guides
Choosing the right tile is just one part of creating a beautiful, high-performing home. If you found this guide helpful, we have a growing library of flooring resources to help you make confident decisions at every stage of your renovation.
Not sure which flooring material suits your lifestyle? Start with our Types of Flooring: A Buyer’s Guide to Picking the Right Flooring Material for a complete overview of every option available.
If you have a busy household and need surfaces that are easy to care for, our guide on Low-Maintenance Tile Trends For Busy Families is a must-read.
Considering waterproof flooring for wet areas alongside your tile project? Read SPC vs. WPC Vinyl: Which Waterproof Core Flooring Is Better for Your Home? to find out which core flooring performs best.
For homeowners planning a mixed-material renovation, Where Laminate Flooring Works (and Where It Doesn’t) explains exactly where laminate fits — and where it falls short.
And if hardwood is part of your renovation plan, Hardwood Flooring Installation: What to Expect From Start to Finish walks you through every step of the process from subfloor prep to the finishing coat.
Ready to Upgrade to Large Format Tiles?
Visit the Bella Flooring Plus showroom at 1399 Kennedy Rd, Scarborough, ON M1P 2L6 to see our full range of porcelain, ceramic, and granite tiles in person — including large format options perfect for floors, walls, and feature surfaces.
Our team is ready to help you choose the right tile, grout line, and installation tools for your project.
Call us: (416) 752-3552
Email: bellaflooring.plus@gmail.com
Browse our tile collection online
Contact us for expert advice