Posted on Date 20th Dec 2023
What tools do you need to tile a floor?
If you are thinking of tiling your floor, then you are going to need the right tools in order to get the job done safely and securely. Thankfully Tile Warehouse is here to help on this front.
Floor tile installations require a combination of common household tools like a tape measure and spirit level with more product specific tools like notched trowels, grout floats, tile cutters etc.
Chartwell Black Pattern Tiles 33x33cm
What safety wear is needed for tiling a floor?
Its always better to be safe than sorry so we would always advise using protectives googles and gloves wherever possible when installing floor tiles, especially when using tile cutters as well as tile nippers. Knee pads are also a good option if you are planning on tiling a large area at home.
What should I use to cut tiles?
It is very likely that you will have to cut tiles during installation to fit the necessary space. There are two main types manual and electric. Manual tile cutters are fine for ceramic and smaller porcelain tiles but for everything else then an electric wet cutter is recommended.
The other tool you may need to invest in for tile cutting is a pair of tile nippers. Low cost, tile nippers are primarily used to make small circular cuts in a tile so that they can fit around the back of a sink or toilet.
Are their specific trowels for fitting tiles?
We would always recommend using a minimum 10mm notched trowel when it comes to applying a bed of adhesive on which to lay your tiles. They have been purposely designed for scooping, spreading, levelling and combing the adhesive in the home. Its also worth investing in the stainless-steel version as this wont rust, even after repeated use. Dont forget that when trowelling your adhesive onto the floors, you make sure to trowel at a 45 degree angle and to press hard scraping the floor to leave whats known as a notch of adhesive.
Why do I need a rubber mallet for tiling floors?
A rubber mallet is extremely useful if you find tiles arent aligned while fitting. Simply tap the tile gently with the rubber mallet to help bed it tile further into the adhesive and then use your spirit level to make sure your tiles are even. If this doesnt work first time dont panic. Simply repeat the process until you are happy.
Do I need a grout float to grout tiles?
The last tool you are going to need when tiling is a grout float. A grout float is a purpose made tool designed to spread your grout over the tile and in between the tiles. While a grout float shares many similarities with a trowel, the bottom of the float is actually made of rubber to help disperse the grout evenly. Its also worth investing in a tile sponge at the same time to clean away any excess grout that may be left on your tiles after youve finished grouting.
The final thing to do is make sure you have all your tools to hand before you begin tiling your floor. And, if by any chance, you have forgotten anything you can always log onto the Tile Warehouse and order the missing items from our Fixing & Finishing section for next day delivery. We also offer the option of spreading your payments using Klarna if you prefer.
Watch our video
Tile Warehouse has teamed up with YouTuber Proper DIY to talk through some of the tiling tools and accessories that you will need when tiling the floors and walls at home.
Need more information?
If you have any questions regarding selecting the right tiles for your home, then feel free to contact our Customer Services team using our web chat facility.
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