Today a reader writes:
Diva, does cost mean anything when it comes to the tools for tile?
Yes it does! With some tile tools, you don’t really have a choice in the matter. However with the ones you do, it really does matter a lot. Before purchasing tile tools ask yourself how big is the area I am tiling and will I be tiling again? Because if you don’t think you are going to be tiling again and it is just a small area you are tiling, generally you are okay with the cheaper tools. That way when you are done, it is no big loss if the tools don’t get cleaned and they have to be tossed or if they can’t be used after the job is done. But if you are going to be tiling either a huge area or more projects, spend a little more money on the quality tile tools. The more expensive ones usually have nicer more ergonomic handles, can be larger, and tend to last much longer.
One area price really does dictate quality is with grout floats. If you are grouting just one space and probably won’t grout anything else, go ahead get the grout float that is under $5. But if you have more or larger areas to grout don’t even try it. Some of the softer grout floats in that price range start to break down and you get little pieces of the float in your grout. These little pieces then dry and you won’t be able to remove them! It is very frustrating to get finished with your job and realize those little black spots won’t come out, short of scraping away the grout and re-grouting!
Another area where cost means a lot is with tile saws. They range anywhere from $40 up to $1000. And once again, you need to ask yourself how much you will be needing it, what type of tile you are cutting and what size of tile before you make your purchase. A $40 tile saw will most likely not make cuts on a 16″ tile and it may not be the best saw to buy if you are going to tile 800 square feet. So if you are purchasing a tile saw make sure it can handle your size of tile, type of cuts and that it can handle the size of your job.
No matter what type of tile work you are doing, there are tile tools just perfect for you. By asking yourself what size project you are doing and how often you’ll be tiling, you can figure out the right tool for the right price.
Do you have questions about the selecting or the installation of: tile, carpet or wall treatments (window blinds, etc)? Then email me your tale of woe and perhaps I will be able to answer your questions right here at the Home Makeover Diva Blog!
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