If you’ve never installed tiles before, you’ll soon learn that a seemingly simple job is much more complex than anyone thinks. Tile installation can be a daunting task, but it can be a breeze with the right tools.
In this blog post, we’ll reveal the essential tools you need for tile installation and provide tips on how to use these tools correctly.
Let’s get straight to it.
Manual Tile Cutters
A manual tile cutter is a handheld tool used to cut tiles. It consists of a blade mounted on a handle, scored along the tile surface and then snapped to break the tile.
While manual tile cutters are great for small projects or cutting tiles that are not too thick, they require some effort, and most professionals use electric versions.
Electric Tile Cutters
An electric tile cutter is a must-have for any tile installation project, as it makes quick work of cutting tiles and is much easier to use than a manual tile cutter. When using an electric tile cutter, always wear safety goggles and gloves to protect your hands and eyes.
Diamond Drill Bits
Diamond drill bits are ideal if you need to create holes in tile for pipes, faucets, and other fixtures. They’re made of a strong material that can withstand the high speeds and pressures required to drill through tile.
Always wear safety goggles and gloves when using diamond drill bits to protect your hands and eyes.
Tile Trowels
A tile trowel is used to apply mortar to the surface before tile installation. It creates a smooth surface so you can install the tiles correctly and create a seamless finish.
There are different sizes of tile trowels available, so be sure to select the right size for your project, as the wrong size will result in an uneven surface.
Wet Tile Saw
As another essential tool for installation, wet tile saws cut ceramic, porcelain, and stone tiles. They have a built-in water pump that keeps the blade cool while it cuts through the tile and prevents the blade from overheating and breaking.
When using a wet tile saw, you should always wear safety goggles and make sure you familiarise yourself with the instructions before operating it.
Tile Spacers
Tile spacers create even spacing between tiles during installation. Before they existed, professionals would have to use nails and rope, but these spacers make the entire job easier and save time and hassle.
Not only do tile spacers help create an even spacing, but they also help ensure that your tiles are installed correctly and evenly.
Levellers and Measuring Tape
Measuring tape is a critical part of any tiling project. If you’re doing a tiling job, it’s crucial to think about how many tiles you need without spending a fortune on extra supplies.
Levellers are also ideal for ensuring your tiles are level during installation, which is especially important for large projects, as even a slight discrepancy can be noticeable.
Tile Nippers & Sanding Stones
Tile nippers are handheld tools used to cut small pieces of tile. They can cut curves, shape tiles around pipes, and help you navigate other obstacles.
When using tile nippers, you should always focus on the edges of each tile because cutting them in the middle will result in the tile breaking into pieces.
A sanding stone is a tool to smooth the edges of tiles after the cutting process. It ensures a professional finish and helps avoid sharp edges that could cause injuries.
The Know-How
Ok, this might not seem like an essential tool – but then you think about it, the mind is a weapon in itself. If you have the know-how, then you can overcome any obstacles in your way.
Tiling is a complex job, and people realise that when they begin laying their tiles. There’s so much to consider, including how to cut the tiles, techniques to apply them and creating a uniform finish.
If you lack the skills to tile effectively, you might struggle. However, there’s no need to hire a professional because plenty of online tiling courses will teach you everything you need to know.
Rubber Mallet
A rubber mallet is a tool used to tap tiles into place gently. It’s essential for any tiling job, as it helps you lay the tiles correctly without damaging them.
When using a rubber mallet, make sure you only tap the tile lightly, as too much force will crack or break the tile.
Protective Clothes
When doing any kind of DIY, it’s important to wear the correct clothing, as tiling creates a lot of dust and debris that can cause skin irritations.
Always wear long sleeves and pants to protect your skin, and ensure you tie back your hair to avoid getting anything in your eyes.
Safety goggles are also essential to protect your eyes from flying debris.
Rubber Bucket, Stanley Knives and Pencils
A rubber bucket is essential for any tiling job, as it mixes the tile adhesive. While other buckets can be beneficial, metal is a corrosive material, but rubber is ideal for mixing tile adhesive.
Stanley knives score tiles, which is a process that helps you snap them in half easily. Pencils are also an important tool, as they’re used to mark the tiles before cutting them, ensuring you cut them in the right place and to the correct size.
The Bottom Line
There are many tiling tools you can choose from, but the ones above are the most essential for basic tiling jobs. While some tools are optional, like the tile nippers and sanding stones, others are essential, like the measuring tape and rubber bucket.
If you’re planning on doing a tiling job, ensure you have all the necessary tools before starting, as this will make the job much easier.
Don’t forget to take a look at our range of courses either. We offer convenient solutions for beginners and pro tilers, so you can tackle any DIY job or begin a new career.