Tiling used to be a difficult process that required a lot of time and effort. But thanks to modern tools and equipment, this is no longer the case.
There are now many different tiling tools available that can make the process a lot easier. Are you a DIY enthusiast who is planning to start a home project? Or looking for the best tiling tools to complete your next upgrade or renovation project?
Make sure you have all the latest and modern tools needed. Some of these may come as optional equipment, but it would certainly enhance your tile laying skills.
What are the Best Tiling Tools for Your Home Project?
Preparing the tools you need is important before any project and you should make a checklist to ensure that you have everything ready.
When it comes to tiling tools, the most essential ones you need are a trowel, tile cutter, rubber float, and grout float. In case you don’t have experience it would be advisable to have someone who does by your side to guide you on how to be more efficient.
Grout Float
The grout float is responsible for smoothing the newly placed pieces of tile against each other.
Choose one that has a handle long enough to reach over larger tiles without difficulty. Standard size of around 18 inches would be the best option.
Tiling Trowel
A tiling trowel is a smaller version of a standard plastering trowel and it should be used to apply the thin layer of adhesive which you will spread over the back surface of the tile and allow you to press them onto the foundation or other surfaces.
You can choose from plastic or metal versions, but make sure you find one that has not been worn down yet since this may pose an additional challenge when working with tiles.
Tile Cutter
The tile cutter is responsible for cutting your tiles neatly and quickly into smaller pieces.
For those who are doing this for the first time, investing in a manual tile cutter is recommended as it easily allows you to pick out the side you want to use.
A manual tile cutter can also be used by both left-handed and right-handed people making it easy for anyone to use it with a little learning curve.
Rubber Float
A rubber float will help you create a finish on your tiles that is smooth and free of excess adhesive material. It allows you to spread out the adhesive so that more tiles can fit into certain places, lessening the need for cuts.
Once again, this may be something that’s best invested in during your first few times, especially if you are working with larger tiles as an additional challenge.
Tile Adhesive
Modern tiling tools allow you to purchase special tiling adhesives which are specifically designed to provide a strong bond to tiles.
This allows you to work more quickly and provides the adhesive with the needed time to properly dry, creating a solid foundation. You can also use standard adhesives for this, but it may take longer before you can finish the project.
Why to Invest in Tile Spacers?
Tile spacers are small plastic disks that you place between tiles that create a space for grout. They might look like something simple, but it’s an important part of the process which facilitates the cleaning up after. Tile spacers save time and make cleaning easier.
Some tile spacers feature a special design that also helps keep tiles in place at the same time you work, making sure they don’t shift during the process.
How to Install Ceramic Tiles With Adhesive or Mortar?
Investing in the proper tools is important when laying tiles and getting this right is crucial. It takes a lot of time and effort to lay tiles correctly and it’s not only about how you place them but also about cutting them in the right way so that they fit together properly.
Luckily for you, there are different types of tile cutters available on the market which can come in various sizes and with several nifty features.
How to Choose Tiling Tools?
You should make sure to invest in quality tools when doing your tile job. You will notice if you are using good or bad equipment while working on the project which makes it worth investing in higher-grade equipment for your home renovation projects.
It may cost more, but opting for top-notch models ensures that their life span is longer and so you can get plenty of uses out of them before having to buy replacements.
So whether you are just starting with home renovations or looking for modern tiling tools because you want to upgrade your current setup, make sure to purchase the best quality equipment you can afford.
For small tiles (large tiles may require more strength and pressure), a tile cutter is perfect. Hold the handle and place your finger on the button, pulling it towards you as firmly as possible.
Make sure not to press too hard though or you might break some of your tiles or worse – hurt yourself in the process.
You should also try picking up a rubber float as these are all handy when it comes to making sure that all your surfaces are smooth after completing the job – just make sure not to use them on glossy floors as they will damage them over time by creating scratches.
