---
layout: default
hide_hero: true
---

<article class="ts-section ts-surface section blog-post" itemscope itemtype="https://schema.org/BlogPosting"
  tabindex="-1">

  <!-- SEO & Schema.org metadata -->
  <meta itemprop="headline" content="Large-Format Tile Done Right: Flatness, Mortars, & Trowels">
  <meta itemprop="datePublished" content="2025-11-09T00:00:00Z">
  
  
  
  <meta itemprop="description" content="Installing large-format tile in South Jersey? Here’s how Tillerstead ensures flat substrates, the right mortar choice, and consistent coverage for floors and walls that stay beautiful.">
  
  

  <div class="container shell">
    <!-- Article header -->
    <header class="post-header stack-md">
      <h1 class="post-title" itemprop="headline">Large-Format Tile Done Right: Flatness, Mortars, & Trowels</h1>

      <div class="post-meta" role="doc-credits">
        <time class="post-date" datetime="2025-11-09" itemprop="datePublished">
          November 9, 2025
        </time>

        

        
      </div>

      

      
      <p class="post-lead lead" itemprop="description">Installing large-format tile in South Jersey? Here’s how Tillerstead ensures flat substrates, the right mortar choice, and consistent coverage for floors and walls that stay beautiful.</p>
      
    </header>

    <!-- Post content -->
    <div class="prose post-body" itemprop="articleBody">
      <p>Large-format tile—<strong>15″ or greater on any side</strong>—delivers a seamless, modern aesthetic. But performance and longevity depend on strict adherence to <strong>TCNA</strong> and <strong>ANSI</strong> standards. At <strong>Tillerstead LLC</strong>, we don’t cut corners: every step is engineered for lasting results and New Jersey HIC compliance.</p>
<hr>
<h2>⚖️ Flatness: The Foundation of Success</h2>
<p>Tile only performs as well as the surface beneath it. <strong>TCNA Handbook (Methods TR115 &amp; TR117)</strong> mandates:</p>
<ul>
<li><strong>≤1/8″ variation in 10 ft</strong> (≤1/16″ in 24″) for tiles <strong>&lt;15″</strong></li>
<li><strong>≤1/8″ in 10 ft</strong> for tiles <strong>≥15″</strong></li>
<li>Flatness verified with a 10 ft straightedge per TCNA tolerance</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>Our process:</strong> We <strong>mechanically grind or float</strong> high/low spots, using self-leveling underlayments or patching compounds as needed. This eliminates lippage and hollow spots—common failures with large-format tile.</p>
<blockquote>
<p><strong>Pro Tip:</strong> The larger the tile, the tighter the flatness tolerance. Substrate prep is non-negotiable.</p>
</blockquote>
<hr>
<h2>🧱 Mortar Selection: Bond Strength That Lasts</h2>
<p>Large-format and gauged porcelain panels require <strong>improved bond strength</strong> and <strong>non-sag performance</strong>. We specify mortars that meet or exceed:</p>
<ul>
<li><strong>ANSI A118.4</strong> — Modified thin-set mortars</li>
<li><strong>ANSI A118.15</strong> — High-performance mortars for demanding applications</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>Preferred mortars:</strong></p>
<ul>
<li><em>LATICRETE® 4-XLT</em>, <em>MAPEI® Ultraflex LFT</em>, <em>Custom® ProLite®</em></li>
<li><strong>Extended open time</strong> for precise layout</li>
<li><strong>Non-sag/medium-bed</strong> properties to support heavy tiles</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>Why it matters:</strong> Standard thinset (A118.1) can slump, causing uneven bond lines and voids. We use only mortars proven for large-format installations.</p>
<hr>
<h2>🔧 Trowel &amp; Coverage: No Voids, No Excuses</h2>
<p>Coverage is critical: <strong>TCNA &amp; ANSI A108.5 require:</strong></p>
<ul>
<li><strong>≥80% coverage</strong> (dry areas)</li>
<li><strong>≥95% coverage</strong> (wet areas: showers, floors)</li>
<li>No voids &gt;2 in²; none within 2″ of tile edges</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>Our method:</strong></p>
<ol>
<li>Select trowel size to match tile back (typically 1/2&quot;×1/2&quot; or Euro-notch)</li>
<li>Apply mortar with <strong>parallel ridges</strong> (one direction)</li>
<li><strong>Back-butter</strong> all large tiles to fill depressions</li>
<li><strong>Lift and check</strong> initial tiles for full coverage and ridge collapse</li>
</ol>
<blockquote>
<p>Proper ridge orientation and a 45° trowel angle allow air to escape, ensuring continuous contact and eliminating weak spots.</p>
</blockquote>
<hr>
<h2>🧩 The Tillerstead Difference</h2>
<ul>
<li><strong>Tight joints</strong> with minimal lippage</li>
<li><strong>Consistent grout lines</strong> and flat transitions</li>
<li><strong>Full bond</strong>—no hollow sounds, no callbacks</li>
<li><strong>Floors and walls that meet or exceed TCNA/New Jersey HIC standards</strong></li>
</ul>
<hr>
<p><strong>Summary:</strong> Precision is non-negotiable with large-format tile. Whether it’s a porcelain floor in <strong>Egg Harbor Township</strong>, a shower in <strong>Galloway</strong>, or a full bath remodel in <strong>Atlantic County</strong>, Tillerstead delivers compliant, durable, and beautiful results—every time.</p>
<p><strong>Ready to start?</strong> <a href="mailto:info@tillerstead.com">Email us at info@tillerstead.com</a> or schedule a consultation. We’ll verify your substrate and recommend the right system for your project.</p>
<hr>
<p><em>Do the work with integrity and care. Tillerstead LLC—where standards aren’t optional.</em></p>
    </div>

    <footer class="post-footer stack-lg">
      <hr class="divider">

      <!-- Tags -->
      

      <!-- Author bio -->
      

      <!-- Share buttons -->
      
    </footer>
  </div>
</article>



<section class="ts-section ts-surface section section-cta center" aria-labelledby="cta-estimate-title">
  <div class="container">
    <h2 id="cta-estimate-title" class="cta-title heading-2">
      Request a Written Estimate for TCNA-Compliant Installation
    </h2>
    <p class="lead">
<<<<<<< HEAD
      Submit your project details and 5 site photos. You'll receive a detailed written proposal with scope, methods, timeline, and transparent pricing—no surprises, no obligation.
    </p>

    <div class="btn-row center" role="group" aria-label="Estimate request and contact options">
      <a class="btn btn-accent" href="/contact/" aria-label="Request a scope review and estimate from Tillerstead">
=======
      Provide site photos and basic measurements. Receive a detailed, line-item proposal with scope, ANSI A108 methods, materials, timeline, and transparent pricing.
    </p>

    <div class="btn-row center" role="group" aria-label="Estimate and Contact Options">
      <a class="btn btn-accent" href="/contact/" aria-label="Request an estimate from Tillerstead, licensed New Jersey HIC contractor">
>>>>>>> 52f5e57fd681d39db28094186257ed2981d8c848
        Request an Estimate
      </a>
      <a class="btn ghost" href="tel:+16098628808" aria-label="Call Tillerstead at (609) 862-8808">
        Call (609) 862-8808
      </a>
    </div>

    <p class="meta">
      <small>
<<<<<<< HEAD
        Licensed & Insured · New Jersey HIC #13VH10808800 · TCNA 2024 Standards · Atlantic, Ocean & Cape May Counties
=======
        Licensed &amp; Insured · New Jersey HIC #13VH10808800 · TCNA 2024 Compliant · Serving Atlantic, Ocean &amp; Cape May Counties
>>>>>>> 52f5e57fd681d39db28094186257ed2981d8c848
      </small>
    </p>
  </div>
</section>