18 Jul 2024, Read Time : 7 Min

A Comprehensive Guide to Upgrade Your Home with Slab Tiles

In the realm of interior designing, the pursuit of elegance and convenience often introduces novel materials and technologies. Among those, are the slab tiles which have quickly risen as one of the most favored choices for any designer or homeowner looking to add modern flair to their spaces. Large-format tiles can render a sleek, adjoining look that easily lends an air of expansiveness and luxury to any space.

From urban lofts to sprawling country houses, these versatile tiles are destined to reinvent any room they are installed in. Slab tiles bring an essence of their own seamless elegance and charm characteristic of the modern age. Explore the enchanting qualities of slab tiles and know how they can give your space unprecedented realms of sophistication. 

The Rise of Large Slab Tiles

Slab tiles represent a contemporary tiling solution suitable for indoor and outdoor surfaces. Known for their large formats, these tiles can add a touch of modernity to an architectural project. Much more than being aesthetic, slab tiles are reputed to be highly durable and easy to clean, making them perfect for places with high footfall such as kitchens and bathrooms.

Slab tiles are available in a few varying sizes. Therefore they can best fit into diversified requirements of different projects (be it commercial or residential)—from 800x1600mm to the larger ones in 1200×1800 and 800x2400mm. Below are some reasons why you should consider slab tiles for your spaces:

They Exude Visual Splendour

Large slab tiles provide numerous advantages, with their sophisticated appearance being a standout. For instance, utilizing the dark, enigmatic, yet sophisticated Granalt Galactic Blue in glazed vitrified tile for the living room floor can create a breathtaking ambiance with its vibrant hues and intricate patterns. 

They Enhance the Perception of Space

Large slab tiles bring out a sense of an expansive area. Opting for large slab tiles can significantly enhance both the aesthetic appeal and perceived roominess. Orientbell Tiles’ Silken Istan Marble Brown tile exemplifies this effect, transforming any space into a sophisticated statement of enduring elegance by minimizing the grout lines, 

Low-maintenance

These slab tiles are surprisingly low-maintenance despite common misconceptions. With minimal grout lines to clean, they offer ease of upkeep. For instance, the Super Gloss Onyx Marble Aqua tiles in the super glossy finish not only adds classic elegance but also simplifies maintenance, making them ideal for high-traffic areas. 

Also Read Granalt Tiles : Slab Designs For The Modern Kitchen

Handling Slab Tiles

Proper handling and cutting of slab tiles are essential to ensure both safety and the integrity of the tiles.

• Using Lifting Tools

Utilise suction cups to form a vacuum seal on the slab’s surface, ensuring safe lifting and positioning. Also, tools like tile handling clamps firmly grasp the slab edges for secure lifting and moving, while lifting straps evenly distribute the weight to minimise the risk of back strain.

• Transportation and Positioning

Transport slab tiles on a flat surface to prevent cracking or breakage. Lift slabs instead of dragging them to avoid edge damage. Align slabs carefully with the installation area using guiding lines or markers, and ensure they are supported evenly.

• Storage

Store slabs vertically against a stable wall or in a specially designed rack with rubber gaskets or pads to prevent slipping and protect edges from damage. Maintain adequate spacing between slabs to avoid direct contact and minimise the risk of chipping or cracking.

Cutting Large Slabs

Below are some methods to Cut Large slab tiles with the right techniques to achieve clean and accurate shapes. 

Straight Cuts

Use a straight edge and pencil to measure and outline the desired cut. For precise cutting, either score and snap the tile along the line with a tile cutter or adjust the wet saw fence to the correct measurement for a smooth cut through the tile.

L-Shapes and U-Shapes

• For L-shapes, measure and mark both sides of the L, then cut with a tile saw or angle grinder, finishing with nippers or a grinder to shape the corner. 
• For U-shapes, mark the outline of the U, make straight cuts with a saw or grinder along the outline and shape the inner corners carefully using nippers or a grinder.

Holes

• Get a template and pencil to draw a circular outline on the slab tile.
• Make a starter hole inside the circle using a drill with a carbide-tipped bit. 
• Attach the correct-sized hole saw to a drill or an angle grinder equipped with a hole saw attachment to cut along the marked circle outline, keeping the tool at low speed.

Preparing and Installing Big Slab Tiles

Before installation of big slab tiles, it needs some pre-installation preparation. Here’s how to go about it:

• Safety Tools: Always wear professional safety gear for personal safety during the installation processes.
• Surface Preparation: The surface where slab tiles will be installed shall be smooth and clean to prevent any chances of poor adhesion.

Adhesive Paste Preparation

• Opt for a high-quality adhesive paste specifically designed for big slab tiles to ensure strong and durable bonding. For a lump-free adhesive paste, blend it using a low-speed mixer. Let the mixed adhesive rest for about 5 minutes before use to ensure proper activation. After which, it remains workable for around 8 hours. 

Handling Slabs

• Utilise a sturdy professional trolley to transport and position the slab tiles safely and efficiently. Make use of a professional table and suitable cutting tools, like the Ruby slim tile cutter, for any necessary cuts to fit the slabs into place.

Applying Adhesive

• The adhesive paste needs to be applied evenly on the back of the slab and the installation surface using a suitable trowel. Start applying from the centre of the installation area and spread towards the edges for uniform coverage. 

• Go with the manufacturer’s instructions on the thickness and coverage of adhesive paste for optimal bonding.

As you are done with the pre-installation preparation, it’s time to install slabs. Lets go ahead to see how you can do it properly:

• Start with the placement: Press each slab firmly into place on the adhesive-covered surface, ensuring full contact and proper adhesion.
• Eliminate Air Pockets: Use a rubber mallet or similar tool to gently tap the slabs from the centre towards the edges, helping to eliminate air pockets and ensure a secure bond.
• Using Levelling Systems: Employ levelling systems to maintain a flat installation surface and ensure uniform tile height across the floor or wall.
• Fill Joints: Fill joints that are between slabs with grout using tools like grout float or rubber squeeze. You need to ensure that there is complete coverage without any gaps or steps.
• Setting Time: Now, allow this grout to sit for 15-20 minutes or long enough to set (follow the manufacturer’s instructions) before cleaning.
• Remove Excess Grout and clean the surface: Clean off excess grout from the tile surface using a hard, damp sponge, working diagonally across joints to avoid disturbing grout lines. After installation, use high-quality professional tile cleaning products for a polished finish.
• Follow-ups: Any additional maintenance or sealing procedures advised by the tile manufacturer should be followed to prolong the life and appearance of the installation.

Maintenance of Big Slab Tiles

If you want them to look visually appealing and last long, inspecting, cleaning, and protecting is what you should be doing to your big slab tiles regularly. Here is our take on how to keep your big slab tiles in proper condition:

For a regular inspection

• Check for Damage: Check for damages around your big slab tiles, particularly along edges and corners. Look for cracks, chips, or loose tiles. The sooner you realise something is off, the less likely it will escalate to a more serious and in all probability, costlier repair. 
• Grout Lines: Look for grout lines for any discoloration or damage. The grout shall be intact, free of mildew and mould. In the case of visible cracks or gaps, reapply grout to maintain the tiles’ stability and appearance.

Cleaning and Protection

• Regular Cleaning: To maintain the beauty of your big slab tiles, use tile-safe cleaning products and avoid harsh chemicals. Opt for pH-neutral cleaners designed for tiles. Clean the floors with a vacuum cleaner daily or once a day and use a damp mop to wipe the surface in case of any dirt.
• Deep Cleaning: Occasionally, scrub the slab tiles to remove all grime or dirt the routine cleaning might miss. Non-abrasive, tile safe cleaners should be used to clean it while using a scrub brush to clean it properly. Wash it carefully and make sure to dry the surface with a cloth to avoid any water stains.
• Edge Protection: Install edge trims or profiles to protect the edges of slab tiles from damage. These trims get to protect the tile edges which in turn increases their durability and give the installation a finished look. 
• Sealants: Applying a good quality sealant will further protect your large slab tiles. Sealants help resist moisture penetration, stains and damage from spills. Just be sure to apply a sealer that will be suitable for your type of tile material and always follow the instructions of the manufacturer in terms of application and reapplication.

Conclusion

Slab tiles are one of the game-changers in contemporary home design. They exude unrivalled elegance and versatility when used for flooring and walls. With Orientbell Tiles, find an exquisite range of premium slab tiles, evolved from an innovative design language and superior quality, to create stunning and durable surfaces in your home. High-performance slab tiles ensure that your space looks classic, timeless.