DIY Tiling - Tools

Using the right tools when it comes to tiling can not only make the job easier. It can also give a DIY project a professional finish! If you’re planning to start your own DIY tiling project, here are some of the tools that you may consider.

Tile Chisel

A Tile Removing Chisel is an essential tool for removing tiles. A cranked blade will help with the removing of old tiles easily with minimal damage to the wall or floor. It can also be used to remove plaster.

Tile Nippers

Tile Nippers are used to cut away small and irregular sections of the tile. They are hand held which allows you to easily control the cutting action.

Tile Cutters

A Tile Cutter makes it easier when you need to cut large numbers of tiles in a straight line. There are different types of cutters available but one that is commonly used has a “scribe wheel” which is pulled across the tile and an arm, which is pushed down after scribing to break the tile along the cut line. It may take some getting used to but when you do, cutting many tiles becomes quicker, easier and more reliable than using a tile scribe. Ensure the Tile Cutter is suitable for cutting the largest tile you’re using. Also check that the “scribe wheel” can be replaced when it’s worn.

Tile Scribe

A Tile Scribe is used to score the glazed surface of a tile so that it can be broken along the cut line. Use against a straight edge to ensure the cut line is straight. When cutting a large number of tiles, we recommend using a Tile Cutter with a “scribe wheel” which will be easier, quicker and more reliable.

Tile Power Saw

A Tile Power Saw can also be used to cut a tile in straight line. You will find this a handy tool for cutting large numbers of tiles or when you have floor tiles that are thicker than wall tiles.
When buying or hiring a Tile Power Saw, select the right wattage of the motor of the saw – the more wattage the higher the power and its ability to cut tougher and thicker tiles. Make sure the table is sufficiently large to support the whole tile on both sides of the cutting edge. A good power saw will have a blade guard and an overload protection for safety, an adjustable guide fence, a waterproof switch, a water tank for cooling the blade to prevent overheating and a diamond blade for better cutting ability.

Tile Hand Saw

Tile Hand Saw is used to cut irregular shapes more easily and quickly than using Tile Nippers. They look similar to a hacksaw, with a frame holding the ends of the blade. When buying a hand saw, make sure that the distance from the blade to the back of the frame is sufficiently large to fit the tiles that you need to. The blade is often round in section with cutting edges on all sides.
When using a tile saw, it is recommended that you cut from the glazed side of the tiles and make the cut on the down stroke.

Tile Drill

Tile Drills are special carbide-tipped bits for drilling glass, tiles and mirrors. They can be used with a hand drill, but are recommended for use in variable speed power drills preferably on a slow speed.
Always keep the drill tip cool with lubricant.
Ceramic tiles can also be drilled using a masonry bit if it is used at slow speed and without hammer action.

Tile Hole Cutter

The Tile Hole Cutter  has a diamond cutting edge. Hole cutters range in size from 12 to over 100mm diameter and should be used in a power drill, leaving a smooth and clean finish. It is difficult to hold the cutter in position on the tile surface to get the hole started as these cutters do not have a locating point. It will help if the cutter is used in a drill stand or if the tile can be secured tightly. Lubricate cutters with water to prevent premature wear. The Tile Hole Cutter is an alternative to the Tile Drill.

Tile File

The Tile File is handy when you need to smooth rough uneven edges or shape tiles. The ideal Tile File has a flat as well as curved face which allows it to be used for filing both straight edges and contoured shapes.

Tile Trowel

A Tile Trowel is used to apply and spread adhesive over a wall or floor before positioning the tile. It is most suited for use when large amounts of tiling need to be done. Tile adhesives often come with a plastic spreader which are only suitable if the tiling job is small.

Grout Spreader

A Grout Spreader is used to spread the grout across the tiles and into the spaces between the tiles. It has a flexible, squeegee edge to move the grout around without damaging the surface of the tiles. When the squeegee edge becomes worn, make sure you replace it to ensure a good finish to the grouting.

Grout Rake

A Grout Rake is a narrow hardened blade used for removing old and discoloured grout. Remove the old grout by working the blade along the grout joints.