How to Avoid Lippage When Installing Large Format Tiles

Large format tiles are extremely popular in modern homes and commercial spaces. Their clean lines and minimal grout joints create a sleek, contemporary look.

However, installing large tiles requires careful preparation and correct techniques. Without proper installation methods, lippage can occur.

What Is Tile Lippage?

Lippage occurs when adjacent tiles are set at slightly different heights, creating a visible edge or ridge between tiles.

This can affect both the appearance and feel of the tiled surface, particularly in areas with reflective lighting or when walking across the floor.

Minor variations can occur in any tiled installation due to:

• Substrate flatness
• Tile curvature
• Installation methods
• Tile layout patterns

Industry standards recognise that small tolerances exist in both tiles and installation surfaces, which is why correct installation techniques are essential.

Why Large Format Tiles Are More Sensitive

Large format tiles — typically tiles with one side 600mm or longer — require greater care during installation.

Because of their size:

• Any variation in the substrate becomes more noticeable
• Minor tile curvature can become more visible
• Installation patterns can exaggerate height differences

This is why experienced installers follow specific guidelines when laying large tiles.

Avoid a 50% Brick Pattern

A common cause of lippage is installing rectangular tiles in a 50% brick (running bond) pattern.

Most tiles have a slight curvature from the manufacturing process, with the centre of the tile slightly higher than the ends.

When tiles are installed with a 50% offset:

• The highest point of one tile (centre) aligns with
• The lowest point of the adjacent tile (edge)

This can increase the risk of lippage.

Industry guidance often recommends reducing the offset to around 25–33% instead of a 50% brick pattern when installing large format or plank tiles.

Ensure the Substrate Is Flat

One of the most important factors in avoiding lippage is substrate preparation.

The floor or wall surface must be:

• Structurally sound
• Clean and dry
• Flat and level

Even small irregularities in the substrate can cause large tiles to rock or sit unevenly.

Professional installers will often check surfaces using straight edges or laser levels before installation begins.

Use Tile Levelling Systems

Modern tiling practice commonly includes the use of tile levelling spacer systems.

These systems:

• Hold neighbouring tiles at the same height
• Prevent tiles from moving while the adhesive cures
• Help reduce the risk of lippage

Levelling systems are particularly useful when installing large format tiles and plank tiles.

Use the Correct Adhesive Technique

Proper adhesive coverage is essential for large tiles.

Installers typically use large-format tile adhesives and apply adhesive using the appropriate trowel size to ensure full coverage.

In many cases installers also use back-buttering, where adhesive is applied to the back of the tile to improve bonding and support.

This helps ensure the tile sits evenly and reduces the chance of hollow spots or movement.

Follow Industry Standards

Tile installation in Australia and New Zealand is guided by recognised industry standards including:

• AS 3958.1
• ISO 13006

These standards recognise that small variations in tile flatness can occur due to manufacturing, and they provide guidance for installers to achieve the best finished result.

Work With Experienced Installers

Large format tiles look incredible when installed correctly, but they do require skill and experience.

Working with a professional tiler who understands:

• tile layout patterns
• substrate preparation
• levelling systems
• correct adhesive methods

will ensure the finished result meets both industry standards and aesthetic expectations.

Need Advice?

At Tile Space, our team works closely with tilers, builders and designers every day. If you're planning a project and need advice on large format tiles, installation patterns, or tile selection, we're here to help.

Visit your nearest Tile Space showroom or talk to our team for expert guidance.