Basic installation manual for large format ceramic tiles with the PORCELANOSA Group guarantee

HIGHKER® large format Premium ceramic tiles

In an ever-more globalised and demanding market, PORCELANOSA has always paid attention to shifts in architecture in the hotel, residential and public sectors, and has developed HIGHKER, a large format, precision ceramic tile collection.®. 

Part of the firm's Premium range, the four finishes available in the collection (Stones, Concrete, Oxides and Marbles) represent one of the greatest advances the multinational has made in overcoming traditional tile sizes in the ceramic sector. The designs open up a range of possibilities and combinations for architecture, interior design and property development professionals, with an increase in dimensions (80 cm x 80 cm, 120 cm x 120 cm, 59.6 cm x 180 cm) to give more durable, extensive solutions.

Bottega Caliza 120 cm x 120 cm

Its numerous technical properties include excellent resistance to extreme temperatures, blows and wear due to heavy use,its waterproof nature, the purity of materials, and its realistic textures based on marble, natural stone and concrete. What's more, now that effective hygiene is more important than ever, playing a pivotal role in the fight against Covid-19, HIGHKER® tiles are easier to clean thoroughly, and prevent the accumulation of dust and dirt on their surface thanks to the uninterrupted, joint-free design.

10 steps to take for correct HIGHKER® installation

The PORCELANOSA Group firm Butech, a specialist in the development of materials and technical solutions for installing ceramic floor and wall tiles, provides a step-by-step guide to safely installing these large format ceramic tiles:

• Check the condition of the tiles: All ceramic tiles, especially rectified tiles, must be handled with the utmost care to avoid scratches, scrapes or chips. Before you start to lay the tiles, check that they are free from defects.

• Flooring design: Make any changes based on the design and flooring use. To do this effectively, avoid cutting any tiles into an L-shape and decide what type and colour of grout you're going to use.

• Prepare the base: The surface you're installing the tiles on should be in the right condition for laying the ceramic tiles: it should be clean, dry, roughened, firm and flat. If the surface you're installing the tiles on isn't flat enough, we recommend using self-levelling mortar level 3 by Butech.

• Handling large format tiles: In addition to using the right tools and methods, we recommend using double cup suction lifters with handles to move the tiles more easily.

• Tile drilling and cutting: Cut the tiles according to PORCELANOSA's instructions, tending to L-shaped cuts.

• Adhesive material: Use improved flexible cementitious adhesives, type C2 S2 super-flex s2 by Butech. Always follow the manufacturer's guidelines when preparing and using adhesives. 

• Laying technique: Lay your ceramic tiles using the double-buttering technique with adhesive and a notched spreader. We recommend using a notched edge of at least 10 mm and ceramic tile levelling systems such as Butech's self-levelling crossheads, at least 2 mm wide.
• Grouting materials: Use grouting materials recommended by PORCELANOSA and apply the grout with a rubber spreader to avoid bubbles, cracks or holes. 
• Movement joints: Plan even surface areas of less than 40 m2 with linear sides less than 8 m in interiors, and perimeter joints in the corners and where there are changes in the flooring level.
• Cleaning and maintenance: Protect the flooring against premature loads or other works. When cleaning the area, use products that are compatible with the chemical resistance of the tiles.