Tools
Beautiful tile won’t mean a thing if the installation isn’t up to par. The right tools and materials, like spacers, trowels and tile saws, help to ensure that the final product is one that will last and be enjoyed for years to come. A little extra time and attention to detail go a long way for your project.
Beautiful tile won’t mean a thing if the installation isn’t up to par. The right tools and materials, like spacers, trowels and tile saws, help to ensure that the final product is one that will last and be enjoyed for years to come. A little extra time and attention to detail go a long way for your project.
Get the Job Done with the Right Tile Tools
Whether you're an experienced DIY enthusiast or just starting out on your first project, having the right tile tools will make the installation faster and easier with a more professional looking end result.
Types of Tools for Tile Work
Tile Cutters
Manual Tile Cutters
Ideal for making straight cuts, manual tile cutters are equipped with a scoring wheel and a snapping mechanism. You score the tile with the wheel, then snap it along the line.
Electric Tile Saws
For more complex cuts, such as rounded shapes or thicker materials like stone tiles, an electric tile saw is needed. You can use a diamond blade to make clean, precise cuts on even the hardest tiles.
Tile Installation
Leveling Tools
A level is the first tool you need to ensure proper tile installation. To help keep the tiles in line, you will also need to use level wedges and clips as you work.
Trowels
Trowels are used to apply adhesive to surfaces. They come in various sizes and notch shapes, each designed to control the amount of adhesive applied. The size and spacing of the trowel notches should be chosen based on the tile size and type of adhesive used.
Spacers
Spacers are small plastic pieces that help in maintaining uniform gaps between tiles. They are available in different thicknesses to achieve various grout line widths. Proper spacing is one of the most important aspects of both aesthetic and structural integrity.
Tile Finishing
Grout Floats
After the tiles are set and the adhesive has dried, a grout float is used to press the grout into these gaps and remove excess grout from the tile surface.
Sponges
Sponges are particularly helpful for wiping off excess grout and polishing the tile face. We recommend using sponges rather than clothes for cleaning up tile installations.
Safety Gear
Utility Gloves
Wearing utility gloves protects your hands from cuts and scrapes while handling tiles. It also keeps them shielded from tile adhesive, which could irritate your skin.
Knee Pads
When installing floor tile, knee pads are a must. They allow your knees and back to stay comfortable for long periods while working close to the ground.
We're Here to Help
Not sure what tile tools you need for your DIY installation project? You can visit one of our showrooms and our expert staff will help you find the right tools for the job.