Tile Tools - The Ultimate Buyer's Guide
time2023/09/04
- If you're looking to buy tile-laying tools but don't know which one to choose, we've put together this comprehensive guide to help you choose the right tiling tool for the job.
If you've never done tile work before, or are new to laying tile, trying to determine which tools you'll need to use to ensure your project finishes to professional standards can be a daunting task.
For traders and tile professionals, there can be some differences and differences of opinion as to which tools are needed, for what purpose, and which brands produce the highest quality products. However, for professionals and amateur DIYers alike, there are many essential tile tools that you can't live without!
We've put together this comprehensive guide to help you choose the right tiling tool for the job. TILER stocks some of the best tile tools on the market, along with all the accessories you could possibly need to help you with your entire renovation project.
How to Choose the Right Tile Tool?
With countless tools to choose from, and two projects rarely being the same, deciding which tool you need to get the job done can be tricky. Before investing, please consider the following factors:
- Do you have a large space for tile? If so, you probably use a lot of tile, and it might be worth investing in an electric tile saw.
- Are you planning to lay floor tiles, wall tiles, etc.? Based on your answers, you will need to decide if you need equipment such as a ladder, and what you need to do to prepare.
- Do you have any obstructions such as existing tile that need to be tiled around?
- What type of tiles do you use, smaller tiles or larger format tiles? Larger tiles tend to be easier to lay, so it's worth considering your ability level before laying tiles of a specific size.
Asking yourself these questions will hopefully help you determine whether you need certain tools.
What Tile Tools Do You Need?
Each tile project is divided into three phases:
- Prepare
- Tiling
- Grouting
For each stage, you'll need different tools, each contributing to the final overall effect.
Before the Start
It's easy to forget, but protective equipment should be a key consideration before starting any tile work.
Dust Mask
Dust from things like cutting tile and mixing grout and adhesives can irritate the lungs. A dust mask can prevent this from happening, making sure you don't inhale any harmful chemicals.
Gloves
Cement burns, cuts, and adhesive irritation are all potential hazards of tile work. Investing in professional protective gloves can minimize these risks and give you extra grip when handling tile.
Knee Pads
You will most likely spend a lot of time kneeling, which can cause discomfort in the short term and even conditions like arthrosis in the long run. A set of heavy-duty knee pads will not only prevent this from happening, but you'll be more comfortable while you work.
Tile Prep Tools:
Pencil
While this may not seem like an essential tool, a pencil is actually pretty handy when it comes to tiling. You will need it to mark any cuts in the tile and to make any notes you may need to make the tiling process easier.
Spirit Level
Repairing a tile is not as simple as it seems, and there is nothing worse than an unstable tile or one that is completely out of line. A level will make sure everything is even and consistent, giving a better overall look.
Tape Measure
You need it to measure the room and the tile itself. You'll also need it to make any cuts and check for gaps between tiles. As with all projects, "measure twice, cut once" is a mantra you need to live by.
Step Ladder
A ladder is all you need if you're tiling a wall (and/or ceiling) and need to easily and safely reach higher parts of the wall. When in use, keep your body centered and facing the ladder when going up and down.
Tile Tool:
Tile Scorer
While not all tilers use it, we think a tile marker is a must-have, especially if you're new to tile. Usually with tungsten carbide on the tip, it is also recommended to use a tile scribe to make a line on the glaze of the tile. A tile cutter can be used to make precise cuts with ease.
It's a pretty self-explanatory tool that's essential when laying tile - it cuts through tile with ease, giving you a professional finish. Make sure the tile cutter you choose is large enough to accommodate the largest tiles you need to cut.
If you have a lot of tiles to cut, you can opt for an electric tile saw, which can cut through large quantities of tiles quickly and efficiently. They're also great for cutting curves for tiling around obstructions like pipes.
Tile Pliers
They are also used for cutting tile, specifically for smaller, irregular cuts. They allow your cuts to be more precise and accurate. Tile nippers can also be used to effectively cut mosaic-style tiles.
Tile Spacers
Tile spacers are another tiling must-have, ensuring equal space between each tile, and making your tile work look more professional and uniform.
Tile File
A tile file is used to smoothly cut any edge of the tile. This will just make the edges of the tile look less rough and give a better overall finish.
Grouting Tools:
Serrated Spatula
To ensure your tile sticks to the surface you're placing it on, the wall or floor needs to be evenly coated with adhesive. This is done with a trowel or applicator that has notches that help the tile stick better.
It's worth noting that notched trowels come in a variety of sizes, so it depends on what works best for your tile type and size. We stock a range of notched spatulas including but not limited to:
Grout Float
The grout float is used to spread grout evenly into the gaps between tiles, making your grout joints simple and painless. They're usually made of rubber and come with a sponge attached that won't damage or scratch the tile; just spread the grout evenly between the tiles for a professional look.
Other Helpful Tile Tools and Accessories
You may have heard of various other tiling tools not listed here that you think might be of benefit to your project. We stock a range of different tools that can help you achieve the right bathroom decor. These tools include:
Hole Cutter/Diamond Drill Bit
Especially important when working with hard materials such as tiles, the diamond drill bit can make precise cuts while avoiding any damage to the tiles.
Porcelain and Tile Cutting Discs
Ceramic and tile cutting disc for ultra-precise and fine straight cuts.
Tile Wedge
Tile wedges support tiles during wall tile laying and help achieve perfectly square and level joints.
Wet Wheel Tile Cutter
Wet wheel cutters are great for larger projects and cut tile easier, faster, and more accurately than manual tile cutters.
Electric Mixer
If you're doing more than small tile jobs, we recommend investing in an electric mixer. Not only will it save you a lot of time and effort, but you will always get the perfect mix of mortar, adhesive, and leveler.
How TILER Can Help You?
As a professional custom tile laying tools manufacturer, we have 28 years in the tile industry and have extensive experience with tile and which tools you should use to achieve your desired finish. Since the invention of the first tile cutter, we have been committed to providing a range of innovative solutions for home improvement and improvement projects. With over 28 years of experience, patented technology, and unmatched production capabilities, TILER has become an industry leader, serving customers in more than 130 countries.
We advocate the spirit of craftsmanship and are always committed to creating perfect, precise, and safe products. Through advanced design, high-quality products and custom service, TILER makes laying tiles easy and an enjoyable experience for installers.
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