Laying Large-Format Porcelain Stoneware: Technology and Specifics in Kyiv

Large-format porcelain stoneware: a next-generation material

Large-format porcelain stoneware has revolutionised the approach to finishing spaces. This material combines the aesthetics of natural stone, the practicality of modern technology and limitless design possibilities. M-STONE is a leading expert in laying porcelain stoneware in Kyiv and Ukraine, offering clients a full cycle of services from consultation to the final result.

Modern porcelain stoneware is made by pressing and firing at a temperature above 1200°C, which gives it unique characteristics: exceptional strength, zero water absorption and resistance to temperature swings and aggressive chemicals. Large-format slabs of 120×120, 120×240, 120×280 and 160×320 cm make it possible to create surfaces practically without joints, which is the key advantage of this material.

Classification of porcelain stoneware by size and purpose

By slab size

Medium format (60×60 to 80×80 cm): the classic option for living spaces. Relatively simple to install, but has a large number of joints.

Large format (100×100 to 120×120 cm): the optimal balance between aesthetics and ease of installation. Suitable for most residential and commercial properties.

Extra-large format (120×240 to 160×320 cm): a premium solution for exclusive interiors. Requires professional installation and special equipment.

Slabs (over 160×320 cm): the maximum slab size for realising the most ambitious projects. Installation is done exclusively by specialised crews.

By slab thickness

Thin porcelain stoneware (3-6 mm): intended for cladding walls, furniture facades and light structures. Not suitable for floors because of insufficient strength.

Standard (8-10 mm): a universal option for floors and walls in living spaces with a moderate load.

Reinforced (12-14 mm): for commercial properties with high traffic: shops, restaurants, offices.

Industrial (18-20 mm): for exteriors, car parks and industrial premises with the maximum load.

By type of surface

Matt (natural): a natural texture without additional processing. It has the highest wear resistance and anti-slip properties.

Polished: a mirror surface with a deep shine. A striking look but less practical because scratches show.

Lappato (semi-polished): a combination of matt and polished areas. The optimal compromise between aesthetics and practicality.

Structured: imitation of the natural texture of stone, wood or concrete. It has pronounced tactile properties and high slip resistance.

Satin: a soft silky sheen without a bright gloss. An elegant look while keeping practicality.

Technology of laying large-format porcelain stoneware

Installing large-format porcelain stoneware is a complex technological process that requires strict adherence to all stages. The specialists of M-STONE have all the necessary skills and equipment to carry out work of the highest quality.

Stage 1: substrate preparation

The quality of substrate preparation determines the durability of the whole surface. Our craftsmen carry out:

An assessment of the condition of the existing surface. With a laser level and a straightedge we check the flatness of the substrate. For large-format tile the permissible deviation is no more than 2 mm per 2 metres.

Dismantling old coverings. If necessary we remove old tile, linoleum, parquet or other coverings and then take away the construction waste.

Repairing and levelling the screed. We eliminate cracks, potholes and unevenness. In case of significant defects we make a new screed or a self-levelling mix.

Waterproofing. In bathrooms, restrooms and kitchens we always carry out waterproofing with coating or roll materials.

Priming. We apply a deep-penetration primer to improve the adhesion of the adhesive to the substrate.

Stage 2: layout and planning

Before laying we always carry out a trial layout of the slabs without adhesive:

Determining the laying direction. We take into account the direction of light, the geometry of the room and the placement of furniture.

Planning the joints. We minimise the number of cuts and make the joints symmetrical relative to the centre of the room.

Choosing the pattern. When imitating natural stone we select the slabs so that the veins and patterns create a natural transition.

Marking. We number the slabs and mark their position to reproduce the planned layout exactly.

Stage 3: preparing the adhesive mix

For large-format porcelain stoneware only specialised adhesive mixes of class C2 or higher are used:

C2 adhesive: an improved cement adhesive with adhesion of at least 1 MPa. The basic option for large formats.

C2E adhesive: an adhesive with an extended open time. It lets you adjust the position of the slab for 30-40 minutes.

C2F adhesive: a fast-setting adhesive. It shortens the time until the surface is ready to 3-4 hours.

C2S1/S2 adhesive: a flexible adhesive for deforming substrates: underfloor heating, wooden substrates, large areas.

M-STONE uses adhesive mixes of leading European manufacturers: Mapei, Litokol, Kerakoll, which guarantees the reliability and durability of the surface.

Stage 4: applying the adhesive

When laying large-format porcelain stoneware the double-application technology is always used:

Applying to the substrate. With a notched trowel with a tooth size of 10-15 mm we apply adhesive to an area of the substrate large enough for one slab.

Applying to the tile. In a thin layer (1-2 mm) we apply adhesive to the back of the slab, filling all the pores and unevenness.

The direction of the ridges. The ridges on the substrate and on the tile must run in the same direction so that the air can escape during laying.

This technology ensures 100% filling of the space under the tile with adhesive, which is critically important for large formats. Voids under the tile lead to local load and cracks.

Stage 5: laying the slabs

Laying large-format slabs is done by a crew of 2-4 people depending on the slab size:

Transport. The slab is carried in a vertical position with vacuum suction cups or special carrying frames.

Lowering. The slab is carefully lowered onto the prepared substrate, starting from one edge and gradually lowering the other.

Pressing. With a rubber mallet and a vibrating platform the slab is pressed to the substrate for an even distribution of adhesive.

Levelling. The position of the slab is adjusted with a levelling system and checked with a level.

Fixing. Levelling system elements are installed to fix the slab until the adhesive sets.

Stage 6: grouting the joints

After the adhesive has fully set (usually 24-48 hours) the joints are grouted:

Cleaning the joints. We remove adhesive residues and dirt from the joints to a depth of at least 2/3 of the tile thickness.

Choosing the grout. For large-format porcelain stoneware we recommend epoxy grouts, which ensure maximum watertightness and durability.

Applying the grout. With a rubber trowel we fill the joints with grout, ensuring complete filling without voids.

Cleaning the surface. We remove excess grout from the tile surface with special sponges and solutions.

Cutting large-format porcelain stoneware

Cutting large slabs is one of the most responsible stages of installation. M-STONE uses professional equipment:

Large-format manual tile cutters: for straight cuts up to 340 cm long. They give a perfectly straight cut without chips.

Electric tile cutters with water cooling: for shaped cuts, cutouts for utilities and corner finishing.

Angle grinders: for trimming in hard-to-reach places using diamond blades.

Drilling equipment: for making holes for pipes, sockets and utilities.

All cuts are made with millimetre accuracy, which ensures a perfect fit of the slabs and a minimal joint width.

Use of large-format porcelain stoneware

In interiors

Floors in living spaces: living rooms, bedrooms, corridors. Large format creates a sense of space and monolithic wholeness.

Bathrooms and restrooms: hygiene, moisture resistance and ease of care make porcelain stoneware the ideal choice.

Kitchens: resistance to stains, high temperatures and aggressive substances.

Kitchen backsplashes: large-format slabs without joints look striking and are easy to clean.

Walls and partitions: thin porcelain stoneware lets you create light decorative structures.

Countertops and furniture facades: an alternative to natural stone with better performance characteristics.

In exteriors

Building facades: porcelain stoneware ventilated facades provide energy efficiency and durability.

Terraces and balconies: frost resistance and anti-slip properties make porcelain stoneware a safe choice.

Pools: zero water absorption and resistance to chemicals ensure long service.

Stairs: the strength and wear resistance of porcelain stoneware withstand intensive load.

Travertine

Travertine is a sedimentary rock with a characteristic porous structure and warm natural shades. This stone is associated with ancient architecture and classic design.

Advantages of travertine

• A unique natural texture
• Warm tones, from cream to brown
• A pleasant tactile feel
• The ability to regulate humidity in a room
• Eco-friendliness and hypoallergenic properties

Application

• Floors in living spaces
• Cladding fireplace surrounds
• Finishing bathrooms (after a water-repellent treatment)
• Facades and terraces in a Mediterranean style
• Pools and spa areas

Marble

Marble is a metamorphic rock that has been a symbol of luxury and refinement for centuries. M-STONE works with the best varieties of marble from around the world.

Popular varieties of marble

• Bianco Carrara: white Italian marble with grey veins
• Calacatta: white marble with golden or grey veins
• Statuario: premium white marble with contrasting veins
• Emperador: brown Spanish marble
• Nero Marquina: black marble with white veins
• Verde Guatemala: green marble with a characteristic pattern

Use of marble

• Floors in lobbies, living rooms, reception rooms
• Marble stairs and balustrades
• Bathrooms in a classic style
• Countertops and window sills
• Fireplace surrounds and decorative elements

Onyx

Onyx is a semi-precious stone with a unique ability to transmit light. It is the most exclusive and expensive material for finishing interiors.

Unique properties of onyx

• Translucency when backlit
• A magical play of colours and shades
• A unique pattern on every slab
• The energy properties of the stone

Use of onyx

• Decorative panels with LED backlighting
• Bar counters with lighting
• Walls in accent zones
• Sinks and bathtubs
• Exclusive light fixtures and chandeliers

What the cost of laying porcelain stoneware in Kyiv depends on

The cost of installing large-format porcelain stoneware is formed individually for each project and depends on:

• The size and thickness of the slabs
• The type of surface (floor, walls, facade)
• The condition and quality of the substrate
• The need for preparatory work
• The complexity of the room geometry
• The number of cuts and cutouts
• The type of adhesive and grout
• The urgency of the work

For an exact calculation of the cost contact the specialists of M-STONE!

The geography of M-STONE’s work

We take orders all over Kyiv and the Kyiv region:

Central districts: Pechersk, Lypky, Khreshchatyk, Podil, Zvirynets Left bank: Pozniaky, Osokorky, the Kharkivskyi area, Darnytsia, Lisovyi Right bank: Obolon, Vynohradar, Sviatoshyn, Borshchahivka, Akademmistechko South Kyiv: Holosiiv, Teremky, Feofaniia, Chapaievka

Kyiv suburbs: Brovary, Irpin, Bucha, Vorzel, Vyshhorod, Vyshneve, Boiarka, Ukrainka, Obukhiv, Kozyn, Koncha-Zaspa

Contact us

M-STONE is your reliable partner in creating flawless interiors!

📞 Phones: +38 068 100 27 96, +38 050 914 18 99 📧 Email: [email protected] 🌐 Website: https://mstone.ua/

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Why choose M-STONE?

✅ A specialisation in large formats: it is our core competence, not an additional service

✅ Professional equipment: vacuum suction cups, large-format tile cutters, laser levels, vibrating platforms

✅ Experienced craftsmen: every specialist has many years of experience with large-format materials

✅ Work with natural stone: travertine, marble, onyx: we know the features of each material

✅ A quality guarantee: we provide an official guarantee on all work performed

✅ Meeting deadlines: clear planning and control let us finish projects on time

The current cost of work for your project can be calculated in the online calculators or confirmed by the manager: it depends on the material, the slab format and the condition of the substrate. The consultation is free.