Wet Saw
For pros, a wet saw is essential to cut tiles to size. Small models range from $100 to $500. If you’re installing larger tile, those models can run $1,000 or more. “I used a DeWalt wet saw, which consistently delivered clean, accurate cuts on porcelain and large-format tile,” says Bezruchuk. “It’s an investment, but precision and reliability save time and material.”
Safety tip: Always wear ear and eye protection while cutting, and if you are cutting larger tile, you’ll need a second pair of hands. “You also will need a stand for the saw,” says master tiler Jeff Thacker. “And watch a video about how to use the saw, to help you do the job right and to learn how to use it safely.”
Manual Tile Cutter
A manual tile cutter is often enough to get the job done. Bezruchuk recommends Rubi models, which he has found to be durable and widely available. “It is one of the most useful tools on a tile job,” he says. “It’s fast, accurate, and ideal for straight cuts without the mess of a wet saw.” Rubi manual tile cutters start at around $120 and go up to around $500.
Angle Grinder and Turbo Diamond Blade
On smaller projects, you can often just cut the tiles with a turbo diamond blade on an angle grinder. “It’s affordable, versatile and works well for notch and specialty cuts,” says Bezruchuk. “Get a variable speed grinder to be able to polish tile without burning it.”
Add a polishing pad to your angle grinder to smooth cuts and finish exposed tile edges. Bezruchuk recommends 50, 100, 200, 400, 800 and 1200 grit pads. “For dry polishing, Diamax Diaflex pads work especially well and are great for touch-ups and edge finishing,” he says. Safety tip: Always use eye and ear protection with grinders.
Trowels (Various Sizes)
Trowels are essential for spreading mortar and mastic, which are the adhesives used to set the tiles. “Trowels have notches on them that you can use to get the right amount of adhesive, whether you want 1/8″ thickness or ¼” or ½”,” says Thacker. “It’s important to use the same amount of adhesive every time so that your tiles are level.” Expect to spend around $25 to $30.
Angle Finder and Rafter Square
Angle finders help you measure the tile space at odd angles, so you can mark precise measurements before cutting. Rafter squares (aka fast squares) also help you check angles to make sure they are perfect. “You’ll use a rafter square more often than an angle finder because it’s easier to use and helps with more common angles, like 45 degrees,” says Thacker. Rafter squares cost $15 to $30 and angle finders around $30.
Tape Measure
A simple, yet essential tool for tile, a tape measure helps you calculate how many tile rows and tiles you’ll need for the space (don’t forget to take grout lines into account). “This can help you to prevent installing most of the tile and then ending up with a tiny space leftover where you can’t fit any tile,” says Thacker. A quality tape measure runs $25 to $50, depending on the length.
Levels
A level is a must for floors, to ensure they’re flat before you start laying tile, plus to keep your tiles flat as you lay them. “You’ll want to continuously use the level as you work, or you’ll end up with an unlevel floor that is already adhered to the sub floor,” says Thacker. “Then you either have to live with it, or tear it out and start over.”
Bezruchuk recommends an assortment of level sizes, including short (around 2 feet), 48-inch and 5-foot. He also recommends a laser level. “It isn’t mandatory, but it makes layout work faster and more accurate, especially on walls, showers and large-format tile,” he says.
Mortar and Grout Paddle
A mortar and grout paddle (aka mixer) is necessary for properly mixing thinset and grout. It fits into a drill, which is another handy tool to have. “You just have to ensure that you get one that fits your drill, through they are usually universal.”
Bezruchuk recommends a basic mixer from Harbor Freight. “You don’t need an expensive one if it does the job consistently,” he says. Expect to spend about $15.
Grout Float
A grout float is what you’ll use to grout the space after the tile is in. “It’s easy to use as long as your grout is the right consistency, which should be like peanut butter,” says Thacker.
¨Bezruchuk recommends a lightweight-style grout float, especially when grouting all day. “A lighter float reduces hand and wrist fatigue and makes detailed work easier, particularly around toe kicks and corners,” he says. Expect to spend around $10 to $12.
Other Accessories
“Knee pads are non-negotiable, even for small tile jobs,” says Bezruchuk. “Tile work is hard on your knees, and skipping protection isn’t worth it.”
Bezruchuk also recommends a simple grouting sponge for small projects and touch-ups. “You don’t need anything fancy, just a good-quality sponge that rinses cleanly and holds its shape,” he says. “For DIY work especially, a basic sponge makes it much easier to clean joints evenly without pulling grout out.”
FAQ
Do you need professional tools to tile?
Not necessarily, but it helps to buy reliable brands that can deliver accuracy. “A decent cutter, proper levels and good prep work will make more difference than expensive extras,” says Bezruchuk. “Professionals benefit from higher-end tools because of speed and durability, but DIYers can still achieve solid results with simpler setups if they take their time.”
About the Experts
- Jeff Thacker is a master tiler, remodeler and handyman with more than 28 years of experience. He also owns Jeff Thacker Master Tiler LLC in Ohio.
- Andy Bezruchuk worked full-time as a tile installer for years before expanding his business into general contracting, including turnkey remodels for kitchens, bathrooms and homes. His company is Bezruchuk Inc., based in Puyallup, Washington.
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