FAQ | Published on 21st May 2021

Where can I get large format porcelain sheets from?

Large format porcelain sheets are a smart way to achieve clean, minimal surfaces with fewer joints. They bring a premium look to interiors and make day-to-day cleaning easier thanks to reduced grout lines.

Large format porcelain sheets are increasingly popular with homeowners, architects, and designers who want a clean, modern finish without the visual interruption of grout lines. They create a sleek look on walls and floors, are easy to maintain, and can replicate the appearance of natural stone or marble at a fraction of the upkeep.

View our large format porcelain products

Dark Geostone Large Format Porcelain Tiles
From £161.82/
Calacatta Oro Delight Large Format Porcelain Sheets
From £170.93/
Venato Bianco Delight Large Format Porcelain Sheets
From £170.91/

What counts as “large format” porcelain?

In the tile industry, “large format” refers to porcelain slabs significantly bigger than traditional tiles. Common dimensions include 3000 × 1000 mm and 2600 × 1200 mm, often manufactured in a slim 6 mm thickness — ideal for lightweight uses such as wall cladding and feature panels. These expansive sheets allow entire walls or surfaces to be finished with minimal joints, giving a clean, uninterrupted appearance.

Different thickness options are available to suit various applications: thinner sheets are perfect for vertical installations, while thicker versions provide the strength needed for floors, steps, and exterior areas. This flexibility makes large-format porcelain a practical and stylish choice for both residential and commercial environments.

At-a-glance Large format sheets can reach 3000×1000 mm or more, in thicknesses from 6 mm for cladding to 20 mm for outdoor use.

Where can I use large format porcelain sheets?

Large porcelain sheets are incredibly versatile. Inside the home, they’re perfect for bathrooms, wet rooms, splashbacks, kitchen walls, and fireplace surrounds. The continuous surface makes cleaning easier and brings a luxury feel to everyday spaces.

They’re also well suited to commercial interiors, such as hotel lobbies, restaurants, and retail displays, where durability and visual impact are both important. For those looking to extend the same look outdoors, porcelain sheets can be combined with thicker porcelain tiles for patios, terraces, and pool surrounds, creating a flowing connection between inside and outside spaces.

Porcelain large format sheets can be used to create luxury shower enclosures, or striking kitchen walls for example. By fitting these sheets, it is possible to dispense with the need to maintain metres and metres of grout between tiles!  Use porcelain sheets for interior decoration to create virtually maintenance free living. The sheer size of these sheets creates a luxurious ambience wherever they are placed in a home.

Design note

Use large sheets on feature walls, kitchens, and bathrooms — then extend the same finish outdoors with thicker matching tiles.

Why choose large format over standard tiles?

The appeal of large-format porcelain lies in its seamless finish and minimal use of grout. With fewer joints, surfaces feel more open, refined, and effortless to maintain. This clean, uninterrupted look is ideal for kitchens, bathrooms, and open-plan spaces where simplicity and flow are key design priorities.

The generous size of these slabs also opens the door to bold, creative applications. They can replicate the elegance of quarried stone, the depth of polished marble, or the raw character of industrial concrete — all without the natural imperfections found in stone. For those looking to achieve a sleek, continuous aesthetic, large-format porcelain offers a flawless solution.

From a practical standpoint, porcelain is exceptionally durable and low maintenance. It doesn’t require sealing, delivers consistent colour and texture across every sheet, and resists water, stains, and everyday wear. This makes it an ideal choice for high-traffic homes, commercial interiors, and hospitality projects where strength and easy upkeep are essential. Combining visual impact with long-term performance, large-format porcelain is a smart and adaptable option for modern design.

Benefits Cleaner lines, fewer joints, realistic stone effects, and long-term ease of maintenance.

Porcelain tiles for interior and exterior projects

Furthermore, it is possible to match interior floor tiles and exterior patio slabs. Use Thicker 20mm formats outside.  Think about the threshold of a bi-fold door where the same material can bridge the interior and exterior floor surfaces- stunning!

Cutting, shaping and detailing

Large-format porcelain requires expert handling and precision cutting to achieve a perfect finish. In our workshop, we use advanced water-jet cutting and specialist porcelain equipment to deliver exceptional accuracy. This technology enables us to create socket openings, mitred edges, shower niches, splashback cut-outs, step nosings, and a wide range of made-to-measure features.

All fabrication is completed in our workshop, ensuring every slab arrives on site ready for installation and reducing the need for complex or risky on-site cutting. For projects that demand exact alignment — such as book-matched porcelain or precisely mitred corners — workshop preparation offers the most dependable and efficient approach.

Fabrication tip

Factory cutting ensures accuracy for mitres, cut-outs, and niches, saving time and risk during installation.

Handling and installation

Because the sheets are large and slim, careful planning is essential. Substrates must be flat and stable, adhesives chosen for full coverage, and movement joints included to avoid stress over time.

Specialist handling frames, suction lifters, and appropriate transport are strongly recommended to protect the edges and faces of the sheets. Installers should be confident working with large format products; where they aren’t, pre-cut pieces make the process easier and safer.

Installer check Flat backgrounds, correct adhesives, and the right handling equipment are essential for safe, successful installation.

Is it expensive to install large-format porcelain sheets?

Installing large-format porcelain sheets usually costs more than regular tiles, because the size, weight and precision required introduce more challenges. Here’s what tends to push the price up, and some rough ideas of what a homeowner might expect to pay in the UK:

Is it expensive to install large-format porcelain sheets?

Installation costs are typically higher than standard tiles due to handling, precision cutting, and substrate preparation. Use this guide to understand the main cost drivers and typical UK price ranges.

Labour and skill

Larger sheets demand careful handling, accurate setting out and specialist installers to avoid lippage (uneven edges) and visible joints.

Substrate preparation

The base must be very flat and stable. Levelling compounds, reinforcement or boarding may be required to meet tolerances for large-format sheets.

Adhesive and fixings

High-performance flexible adhesives and, in some cases, mechanical fixings increase material cost but ensure long-term bond strength.

Cutting

Precision cuts often need advanced tooling (water-jet, bridge saws). Complex layouts, corners and apertures add time and setup.

Transport and handling

Oversized sheets are heavier and more fragile in transit. Specialist frames, suction lifters and two-person (or more) teams reduce risk but raise cost.

Typical UK installation cost ranges (materials + labour)

Scenario Guide price per m² Notes
Basic surface, small/medium sheets £50–£70 Good substrate, simple layout, minimal cuts
Large slabs on prepared substrate £80–£120 Standard finishes, accurate setting out, moderate cutting
Premium install / complex features £120–£180+ Difficult access, feature walls, niches, extensive precision cuts
Note: Prices vary by region, access, layout complexity and installer rates. A site survey will confirm exact costs.

Planning tip: Budget for substrate levelling and allow time for dry runs with lifting frames. Accurate prep reduces waste and helps keep installation on programme.

Care and maintenance

Porcelain is among the easiest surfaces to maintain. Being non-porous, it resists stains and can be cleaned effortlessly with a mild pH-neutral cleaner. This makes it a perfect choice for high-traffic kitchens and bathrooms where spills happen frequently.

For textured porcelain finishes, it’s best to avoid abrasive pads and instead use soft cloths or gentle brushes to protect the surface. With simple, routine cleaning, porcelain slabs stay looking fresh and require no sealing or specialist treatments.

Cleaning note No sealing required — just regular pH-neutral cleaning to maintain the surface.

Do I Need a Specialist Installer?

Large-format porcelain slabs require a different approach from standard tiles. Their scale, weight, and rigidity mean they need specialist tools and skilled handling to be cut, lifted, and installed correctly. While some experienced tilers may take on the task, it’s always safest to work with professionals who regularly install large-format porcelain — ensuring accuracy, safety, and a flawless end result.

This level of expertise is essential for precision projects such as book-matched walls, seamless cladding, or installations with tight joint spacing, where even the slightest deviation can stand out. Professional installers understand how to manage the material’s weight, plan structural support, and handle each slab carefully to avoid damage and achieve a consistent finish.

At Stoneworld, we use advanced water-jet technology and dedicated porcelain machinery to prepare slabs before they reach site. Mitred edges, socket cut-outs, and apertures are all completed in our workshop, allowing for a smoother, faster, and more dependable installation process once on location.

Why use a specialist?

  • Knowledge of handling oversized slabs
  • Precision fitting with minimal joints
  • Reduced risk of breakage or damage
  • Professional finish that lasts

Are there size limits to how wide or tall large-format porcelain sheets can be?

Yes, although “large format” typically refers to porcelain slabs measuring up to 3000 × 1200 mm, manufacturers can often produce bespoke dimensions to suit particular projects. The main limitations are handling and substrate support.

Very large or tall panels may require additional structural backing or support framing, especially when installed vertically. Your installer or designer should assess whether the wall or structure can safely bear the weight. At Stoneworld, our precision workshop cutting ensures that even oversized panels arrive ready to fit, with any necessary reinforcements planned.

Natural Stone Step Treads — Thickness, Finish & Slip Resistance

Choosing the right thickness, edge profile and slip resistance helps steps feel secure, wear well, and meet UK use requirements. Use this guide to plan durable, comfortable treads for indoor and outdoor settings.

Recommended Thickness

20–30 mm Typical domestic steps, indoor or sheltered external
30–40 mm Outdoor steps, higher traffic and exposed locations
40 mm+ Public or heavy-use areas, wider spans, cantilevers
Note: Support, span and fixing method influence the thickness you need.

Slip Resistance & Finish

  • Outdoor: Choose textured finishes (flamed, sandblasted, bush-hammered, riven)
  • Indoor: Honed for a smoother feel; add anti-slip grooves if near entrances
  • Wet areas: Aim for higher pendulum values (PTV) and use nosing details for grip
  • Keep a consistent finish across the flight for predictable footing
Tip: Request PTV test data where available and consider drainage and cleaning regime.

Edge Profiles

  • Square with 2–3 mm arris: Crisp look, reduces chipping risk
  • Pencil round (5 mm): Softer touch underfoot, family-friendly
  • Bullnose: Traditional profile, comfortable leading edge
  • Chamfered: Clean, modern line that sheds water
Consider: Nosing projection of around 20–25 mm for grip and water run-off.

Sizing & Proportions

  • Typical domestic riser 150–170 mm; going ≥ 280–300 mm
  • Use 2R + G ≈ 630–660 mm to balance comfort and rhythm
  • Keep dimensions consistent across the flight to reduce trip risk
  • Allow 20–25 mm overhang; avoid sharp projections near walls

Stoneworld Workshop Services

  • Precision cutting, templating and pre-drilled fixing holes
  • Edge profiling: pencil round, bullnose, chamfer and bespoke
  • Anti-slip grooves and matched risers/landing pieces
  • Sealant application and labelled sets ready to install

Planning Checklist

  1. Confirm use (indoor/outdoor), expected traffic and exposure to water/frost
  2. Select thickness and stone type appropriate to support and span
  3. Choose finish for slip resistance; specify grooves if required
  4. Agree edge profile and nosing detail across all treads
  5. Provide exact tread, riser and landing measurements for fabrication

Best practice: For exposed external steps, pair a textured finish with drainage falls and regular cleaning. Pre-templated, pre-sealed treads reduce on-site time and help deliver a consistent result.

How Stoneworld Can Help

Large-format porcelain demands the right approach from start to finish — from sourcing and preparation to careful installation. At Stoneworld, we manage every stage of the process, helping you choose the most suitable format, handling all precision cutting, and arranging safe, reliable delivery. With our specialist equipment and experienced team, we make sure your project runs smoothly and achieves the seamless, high-quality finish you expect.

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