Laying Large-Format Tile on a Floor in Kyiv: A Step-by-Step Guide

A floor in a modern Kyiv interior has stopped being just a functional surface. In 2026 it is a full-fledged art object. Slabs of 1200×2400, 1600×3200 or 1000×3000 mm let you create the effect of a monolithic stone plateau. However, so that such a floor does not crack the very first time heating is switched on, m-STONE follows a strict technical protocol.

In this article we take you through all the stages, from the “rough” screed in the RiverStone or Novopecherski Lypky complexes to a perfect finish.

Stage 1: assessment and substrate preparation

For large format the substrate is 80% of success. On ordinary sites in Kyiv we often come across a screed that looks flat but is technically unsuitable.

Strength control: we test the substrate for compression. If the screed is “loose”, a heavy slab will simply tear off the top layer of concrete. In such cases we strengthen it with epoxy primers.

Removing the “cement laitance”: when concrete is poured, weak particles float to the surface. We grind this layer off with diamond cups, opening the pores of the concrete for maximum adhesion of the adhesive.

A perfect horizon: the tolerance on the plane is no more than 1 mm per 2 linear metres. If the difference is larger, we use high-strength cement-based self-levelling compounds (self-levelling floors).

Waterproofing: in kitchen and lobby areas we apply flexible waterproofing to protect the neighbours below and the building structure itself.

Stage 2: dry layout and laser marking

We never start gluing “from the corner”.

Axis marking: with Hilti laser levels we set out the central axes of the room. It is important that the pattern (the veins of marble or the texture of concrete) is symmetrical relative to the entrance or the main viewpoints.

Dry fit: all slabs are laid out “dry”. This lets you make sure that the cuts at the edges will be aesthetic and not less than half the width of a slab.

Stage 3: choosing the adhesive and the “double-buttering” technique

Large-format porcelain stoneware practically does not absorb water (coefficient <0.05%). An ordinary adhesive simply will not stick to it.

S1 / S2 chemistry: we use only deformable adhesives (for example Mapei Ultralite S2 or Litokol K100). They contain a high percentage of polymers, which lets the adhesive “breathe” together with the building. This is critical for floors with heating in Kyiv, where the thermal expansion of a slab can reach 1-2 mm.

Application: the adhesive is applied with a notched trowel on the floor and in a thin layer “scraped on” to the back of the slab. The directions of the ridges must be parallel! This ensures that the air can escape freely.

Stage 4: positioning and vibration laying

It is impossible to lay a 70 kg slab exactly into the joint by hand.

Vacuum frames: M-STONE craftsmen use Raimondi frames that let them lower the slab smoothly onto the adhesive layer.

Vibration compaction: this is the most important moment. Special cordless vibrating machines “knock out” all the air bubbles. If a void the size of a palm is left under the slab, the slab will crack when a heavy object falls (or simply from the foot of a wardrobe).

Levelling system (TLS): we install clamps every 20-30 cm, which guarantees no “lippage” (height differences between slabs).

Stage 5: epoxy grout, the final touch

After 72 hours, when the adhesive has gained strength, we start grouting.

Why epoxy? Unlike cement, epoxy grout (Kerapoxy, Litokol) does not absorb dirt, does not change colour and is permanent. We choose the colour of the joint as close as possible to the main tone of the tile so that the floor seems a single whole.

M-STONE offers transparent pricing without hidden surcharges.

Why choose M-STONE?

A professional tool fleet: we work only with the brands Montolit, Sigma and Festool.

Location: all of Kyiv (Pechersk, Obolon, Podil, Holosiivo) and the region (Kozyn, Irpin, Bucha).

Dreaming of a perfect seamless field? Take the first step towards a quality renovation!

📞 Call a craftsman: +38 (068) 100-27-96

📱 Order a calculation on Viber / Telegram: + 38 (050) 914-18-99

✉️ E-mail: [email protected]

📸 Our Instagram with videos of sites: @mstone_kiev

📺 YouTube channel with life hacks: M-Stone_Kyiv

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.