Mastering Large Format Ceramic Tile Installation: Tools and Techniques

Hello, fabricators! In today's ever-evolving world of interior design, homeowners facing kitchen and bathroom renovations are increasingly turning to large-format ceramic tiles. These tiles offer a blend of fashion and beauty that not only elevates the aesthetic appeal but also creates a sense of spaciousness. However, the journey from a sample tile to transforming your living space with these large tiles involves intricate steps, including handling, processing, transportation, and installation. To ensure a successful installation, it's crucial to have the right tools at your disposal and collaborate with experienced professionals well-versed in the challenges and techniques unique to large-format tiles.

So do you know how a complete large format tile goes from sample tile to your room? Next, I will introduce you to a few tools that must be used when installing large tiles.

1. Work Table for Large Format Tiles

To kick off the installation process, you need a reliable workbench designed specifically for large-format ceramic tiles. These tiles come in unique sizes and carry substantial weight, making a workbench with sufficient load-bearing capacity, appropriate size, stability, and safety a must-have. Enter the Raizi Large Format Tile Cutting Work Table. This innovative workbench stands out with its lower-than-average height of 70cm, providing an ergonomic and effortless working height for cutting large tiles. Moreover, its splicable design, with each segment measuring 180cm and supporting a single load of up to 250kg(550lbs), ensures compatibility with tiles of various sizes. Unlike traditional metal workbenches, Raizi's offering boasts a lightweight aluminum structure that's easy to assemble, disassemble, and store while retaining ample load-bearing capacity.

2. Transportation Tools for Large Format Tiles

After the problem of placing large format tiles is solved, short-distance transportation from the workbench to the wall or floor cannot and cannot be done by hand, and transportation tools must be used. We need to decide what kind of handling tools to use based on the size and weight of the large tiles. Now when talking about large tiles, many sizes come to mind, the most popular size is 12”*24”, then 24”*48”, 48”*48”, 48”*96”, 64”*126” etc. (If there are other better sizes, please leave a message in the comment area and let me know). So the question is, with so many large ceramic tiles of different sizes, how do you choose the right tool? There are several tools below, please choose according to the actual situation.

2.1 Economical and Applicable 8/9/10 Inch Manual Suction Cup

Manual suction cups are a traditional choice in the ceramic tile industry. However, not all suction cups are created equal. Ordinary rubber suction cups typically have load-bearing capacities ranging from 100-250lbs. While some suppliers claim capacities of up to 400lbs, it's essential to be cautious when assessing these claims. Modern ceramic tiles tend to be more expensive, and insufficient suction power can result in costly accidents and injuries. Raizi's 8-inch manual suction cup with a metal handle offers a reliable load capacity of 125lbs. It features a double-layer rubber design for superior sealing and safety. Raizi is also set to introduce a white silicone suction cup, addressing the issue of rubber staining.

 

2.2 Grabo Lifter: An Innovative Choice

For those with a flexible budget, the Grabo Lifter represents a game-changing innovation in the suction cup industry. Raizi Tool, an authorized seller of Nemo Grabo products, ensures authenticity and outstanding after-sales service. The Grabo Lifter is an electric suction cup powered by lithium batteries, renowned for its versatility across smooth, rough, and porous surfaces. Different models offer varying load-bearing capacities and features. Notably, the Grabo Pro Lifter 20 boasts a digital display with battery, pressure, and automatic start-stop functions. This smart technology enhances safety and work efficiency by detecting pressure weakening or air leakage and automatically adjusting the suction power.

 2.3 Large Ceramic Tiles Above 48"

For tiles exceeding 48 inches in size, Raizi Tool offers large format tile carry systems in two sizes: 1.3m-2.4m and 1.9m-3.6m. These systems are ideal for handling and transporting large tiles over short distances. With 8-12 pcs 6-inch suction cups, they securely adhere to tile surfaces, even on rough terrain.

 

In conclusion, the installation of large-format ceramic tiles requires meticulous planning and the use of the right tools. A well-equipped workbench, reliable transportation tools, and innovative suction cups can significantly ease the installation process. Stay tuned for our next article, where we delve into high-quality tile cutting tools, a crucial aspect of achieving flawless large tile installations.

 

If you are interested in more tools for large format stone, pls click here!