Large-Format Stone Tiles: Handling & Installation Tips

Large-format stone tiles—commonly made from marble, travertine, limestone or granite— have become increasingly popular in luxury residences, hospitality projects and commercial buildings. Their seamless appearance and dramatic veining make them an excellent design choice, especially when using premium Turkish marble selections.

This guide explains best practices for handling, transporting and installing large-format natural stone tiles so your project achieves flawless results.

What Qualifies as Large-Format Stone?

In the natural stone industry, any tile above 600×600 mm is considered large-format. Common formats include:

• 600 × 900 mm
• 800 × 800 mm
• 900 × 900 mm
• 1000 × 1000 mm and above

These formats are frequently produced from Tundra Grey, Burdur Beige, Marmara Equator, Limra limestone and other Turkish stones widely used in global projects.

Handling & Transportation Tips

Large tiles require special care from the moment they leave the factory. Key recommendations include:

• Always transport tiles vertically in A-frame racks.
• Avoid stacking large tiles flat, as this can create internal stress.
• Use felt or foam separators to prevent scratching polished marble surfaces.
• Lift tiles with suction cups or two-person handling to prevent breakage.

To understand how slabs and tiles are produced, see From Quarry to Factory: How Turkish Blocks Become Slabs.

Substrate Preparation

Because large stone tiles leave little room for adjustment, the substrate must be:

• Perfectly level and rigid
• Free from cracks or voids
• Clean and dry

For recommended adhesives, see Substrates and Adhesives for Natural Stone.

Setting Large-Format Tiles

When installing large-format marble or limestone tiles, installers should follow these steps:

• Use a back-buttering technique to ensure full adhesion.
• Apply leveling systems to prevent “lippage” between adjacent tiles.
• Choose appropriate grout joint widths (usually 2–3 mm depending on stone size).
• Check vein direction for marble or travertine tiles before installation.

Learn more about vein orientation in Understanding Vein Direction in Marble & Travertine.

Finishes for Large-Format Tiles

Large tiles are often used in:

• Polished marble lobbies
• Honed travertine bathrooms
• Brushed limestone feature walls
• Flamed granite exterior terraces

Learn more about finishes in Natural Stone Finishes Explained.

Why Choose Large-Format Tiles?

Designers and contractors choose large tiles because they:

• Create minimal grout lines
• Showcase continuous marble veining
• Enhance modern and luxurious aesthetics
• Work well in both floors and wall cladding

Many of these formats are available through our Turkish stone collection.

Conclusion

Large-format stone tiles offer unmatched visual impact and sophistication. By understanding proper handling, substrate requirements and installation techniques, designers and installers can ensure long-lasting results with Turkish marble, travertine, limestone and granite.

Browse premium materials for your next project on the Products page, or explore more technical guides in the Natural Stone Academy.