How mosaics, standard tile and large-format tile change the look, the grout lines, the installation and the cleaning.
Tile size changes everything. Mosaics, often one or two inches, bend around curves and add traction, but they have many grout lines. Standard tile, around twelve inches, is easy to handle and widely available. Large-format tile, with an edge of about fifteen inches or more, makes rooms feel larger and cleaner, with fewer joints. Rectified tile has precisely cut edges, so grout lines can be narrow, while pressed tile needs wider joints.
Bigger is not always better. Large tile needs a very flat floor and careful setting, and mosaics are the easiest way to cover a sloped shower floor. Homeowners in Nashville often combine sizes: large tile on walls, small tile on the shower floor and a mosaic accent in the niche. We talk through how each size affects grout lines, cleaning, cost and installation time before you choose.
Small tile that bends to slopes and curves.
Easy to handle and widely available.
Fewer joints for a calm, open look.
Allow narrow, even grout lines.
Large tile needs a very flat base.
Fewer grout lines are easier to clean.
Walk-In ShowersWalk-in shower conversion that replaces a tub or small stall with an open, tiled shower with a glass…Explore 
Tub SurroundsTub surround tile that covers the wall around a bathtub with waterproofed backing, clean corner details and a…Explore 
Heated FloorsHeated tile floors with electric mats or cables set under tile, a floor sensor and a thermostat, coordinated…Explore 
Tile FlooringTile flooring installation for kitchens, halls, living areas and whole homes, with flat prep, careful layout and grout…Explore 
Porcelain FloorsPorcelain tile floors in stone, wood, concrete and solid looks, chosen for density, low water absorption and durability…Explore 
Large-Format TileLarge-format tile floors with very flat substrates, careful setting and minimal grout lines for a clean, modern look…Explore 
Wood-Look TileWood-look plank tile floors that give you the warmth of hardwood with the water resistance and durability of…Explore 
Pattern FloorsHerringbone and pattern floors in tile, including chevron, basket weave, offset and mixed-size layouts that add a custom…Explore Plan your layout, pick a size or ballpark a budget.
Tile Layout StudioSet your room, pick a tile size and a pattern such as straight, offset, diagonal or herringbone and see a top-down plan with full and cut tiles, then send the plan to us.Try it 
Tile Size and Format PickerPick the space and the conditions to see which tile format, grout joint and finish usually fit, with notes on flatness and grip.Try it 
Tile Project Budget PlannerPick a shower, floor, backsplash, patio or repair project, set the area and add allowances like leveling, waterproofing and heated floors to see a ballpark planning range. Placeholder values only.Try it An edge of about fifteen inches or more is commonly called large format.
Smaller tile follows slopes more easily, and large tile works with a linear drain and single slope.
They work best with rectified tile. Pressed tile needs wider joints.
Comparison guidePorcelain, Ceramic and StoneHow the three main tile families differ in density, water absorption, wear, care and the looks they offer.Learn more 
Comparison guideShower Waterproofing ComparedHow sheet membranes, liquid membranes and traditional liners differ in installation, details and what each asks of the…Learn more 
Comparison guideGrout Types ComparedHow cement-based, epoxy and urethane grouts differ in stain resistance, flexibility, color, working time and cost of care.Learn more 
Comparison guideFloor Prep and LevelingWhy tile needs a flat, clean, sound base, how flatness is checked and how leveling compounds and grinding…Learn more Call us and describe your project. We will measure, check the surfaces and give you a clear written estimate.
