Guide Using A Tile Leveling System
Using a tile leveling system can greatly simplify the process of installing tiles and produce a much better result, especially if you’re doing it yourself. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to use a tile leveling system effectively.
Table of Contents
What's a Tile Leveling System
The tile leveling system is usually sold as a set, including the pliers, wedges and clips, however while the pliers and wedges are reusable, you may need to purchase additional clips for your next tile project.
The Tile Leveling System will include:
- Tile leveling clips: These are the plastic clips that go underneath the tiles.Â
- Tile leveling wedges: These are inserted into the clips to level the tiles.
- Tile Leveling System Pliers:Â These allow you to fulling insert the wedges into the clips, ensuring that the tiles are level with each other.
The tile leveling clips vary depending on the desired tile spacing. Be sure to check the spacing when purchasing you tile leveling set and/or replacement clips.
This article focus just on how to use a tile leveling system. For a complete guide on how to install a tile floor read our article, SureReno’s Guide to Installing Tile Floors.
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Step-by-Step Guide
Ensure You Have Right Tools
Different Tile Levelling Systems use different clips, wedges and tools. Before starting to install the tiles, ensure your clips, wedges and pliers were made for each other.
Apply Adhesive or Mortar
Before applying the thin-set mortar, be sure your tile layout is perfect. The tile layout can determine the success of your flooring project before you even lay your first tile. For clear guidance on how to properly layout your floor tile project, you might want to review our DIY Guide:Â How to layout a tiles floor.
Spread the tile adhesive or mortar evenly on the substrate using a trowel, making sure to create grooves in the adhesive for better adhesion.
Place the First Tile
Position the first tile carefully onto the adhesive, pressing down firmly to ensure it adheres well to the substrate. Use a small level to ensure it is level in all directions.
Insert Leveling Clips
Take a tile leveling clip and slide it underneath the edge of the tile. Some people install the clip so that it spans the gap between adjacent tiles at all four corners. You will require fewer clips and wedges with this method but will require additional spacers to ensure all spaces are even.
If installing larger tiles, we recommend using two clips on each side on the tile, but you will go through a lot more clips and wedges. Be sure that your clips are fair enough from the corner to allow for the wedges to be inserted.
Insert Leveling Wedges
Once the clips are in place with a tile installed on both sides of the clip, insert a leveling wedge into the gap between the tile and the clip.
Use your tile leveling pliers to ensure the wedge is inserted fully. This will ensure the tops of the tiles are level and at the same height.
Check Alignment
Verify that the tiles are properly aligned and level by checking with a spirit level or by visually inspecting them.
Continue Laying Tiles
Repeat the process with the next tile, placing leveling clips under the edges as you progress. Make sure each tile is snug against the previous one and that the clips are positioned correctly.
Allow Adhesive to Set
Let the adhesive or mortar set according to the manufacturer’s instructions before removing the leveling clips and wedges. This typically takes anywhere from 24 to 72 hours, depending on the type of adhesive used and environmental conditions.
Remove Clips and Wedges
Once the adhesive is fully set, remove the leveling clips by kicking them off at an angle or using a rubber mallet to break them off. Be careful not to damage the tiles in the process.
Conclusion
By following these steps and tips, you should be able to successfully use a tile leveling system to achieve professional-looking results in your DIY tile installation project.
For great tile ideas, check our friends at Creative Material Corporation.
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