2023 Your All-In-One Guide: How To Use Tile Leveling Systems

What is a tile levelling system?

A tile leveling system is an innovative tool, pivotal in ensuring the uniformity and precision of tile installations. It primarily comprises three components:

• Clips (also known as Posts or Straps): These foundational elements are set within the tile adhesive on the tile's edge. They not only determine the space between tiles, ensuring even grout joints but also act as spacers to facilitate the wedge's action.
  
  
• Wedge (often referred to as a Cap): The wedge, when slotted into the clip, guarantees a seamless transition between tiles. It exerts downward pressure, eliminating chances of tile lift during the adhesive's drying period. This dual action of pulling tiles from below while applying downward force ensures a level and uniformly spaced tiled surface.

• Leveling Tool: Some systems come equipped with a specialized tool, reducing hand strain and enhancing efficiency. This tool ensures optimal pressure application to the wedge-clip assembly in the adhesive.

The essence of a tile leveling system lies in its ability to combat tile lippage, a scenario where one tile's edge is higher than its adjoining tile. 

By mitigating lippage, the system safeguards against potential tripping hazards and other accidents, contributing to both aesthetics and safety. In addition, the system expedites the installation process, resulting in reduced timelines and an impeccably finished look.

Why Opt for Tile Leveling Systems? The Unparalleled Benefits

Embracing tile leveling systems is akin to making a strategic investment in the quality and efficiency of your tiling projects. Here's a deep dive into the unique advantages they offer:

• Streamlined Installation: One of the prime benefits of using tile leveling systems is the simplicity and consistency they introduce. Regardless of the substrate type, these systems pave the way for a flawless and even surface, eliminating the need for varied spacers or shims.
• Consistent Grout Lines: The precision-engineered clips in the system ensure that every tile installation boasts consistent grout spacing. This not only elevates the aesthetic appeal of the tiled area but also ensures long-term durability.
• Cost-Efficiency in the Long Run: While the clips are a one-time-use component, designed to break off post the adhesive setting, the wedges have been crafted for longevity. They can be easily repurposed for numerous tiling projects, translating to noticeable savings over time.

In essence, tile leveling systems are not just about achieving perfection in tile layouts. They're about optimizing the tiling process, ensuring savings in both time and resources, and delivering unmatched quality consistently.

Types of Tile Leveling Systems

Ensuring your tiles are perfectly level is vital for a polished finish. Various tile leveling systems cater to different tile sizes and personal comfort levels with the system. Here's an insightful guide into the diverse types of tile leveling systems:

Clip and Wedge Tile Leveling System (also known as T-lock Tile leveling system)

Favored by many professionals, wedge systems such as the Raimondi Leveling System, Perfect Level Master T-Lock System, and Awisdom T-Lock Tile Leveling System a broad wedge and a leveling clip. This combination facilitates a smooth surface, even on different substrates. The wedge, often adjusted with pliers, slides into a clip ensuring tiles are perfectly level. If you want to get better results, try the no lippage tile leveling system.

Reusable Tile Leveling System

Systems like the Awisdom Recycled Tile Leveling System , this kind of tile leveling system also uses a design that is easy to install, and its accessories can be recycled repeatedly. For beginners, it not only saves a lot of time and cost, but also greatly improves the fault tolerance rate of paving. And it's also the best tile leveling system 2022.

Spinning Cap Systems (also known as Cyclone Tile Leveling Systeme)

Modern innovations such as the Awisdom Spinning Leveling System employ a spinning cap and post system. Remarkably user-friendly, these systems necessitate no additional tools. Once the adhesive sets, the post can be removed, and the cap can be reused. If you are looking for tile leveling system for small tiles, may be it is a good choice.

TILE LEVEL QUICK

Specifically tailored for tiles with a thickness ranging between 3 and 16 mm, this system is perfect for ceramics and weightier tiles. It comes with strips and caps to uniformly set these heavier tiles. A defining feature is its specially-designed pliers which maintain the tile's position during the adhesive phase. And for the environmentally-conscious, its components are reusable, aiding both your wallet and the environment.

Finally, it's essential to consider the experience and comfort of the individual installer when choosing a tile leveling system. Each has its own merits, and the right choice often depends on the specific requirements of the project.

For more insights into tiling, including advanced techniques and best practices, dive deeper into our range of blog articles. Your tile installations are a reflection of your craftsmanship; choose wisely and work diligently!

Remember, no system or technique is a substitute for skill and patience. As always, following manufacturer guidelines and recommendations is crucial.

How many clips and wedges will I require per square metre of tiling?

When considering the Awisdom leveling kit for your tiling project, an essential aspect is determining how many clips and wedges you'll require. To make this task easier, we've introduced the clip calculator. Having the right number of materials is vital to ensure a seamless and efficient tiling process.

To assist in this endeavor, we've devised a simple reference guide, featuring a tile spacers size chart and a tile leveling system calculator. If you're wondering about the space between each tile, our tile spacer calculator and tile spacing calculator are valuable tools.

Here's how to interpret our guide:

• Identify Your Tile Size: Start by pinpointing your tile's dimensions. This will be your reference point on both vertical and horizontal axes of the chart. If you're using clips, our clip on calculator will further aid in ensuring precision.
• Intersection Equals Quantity: At the point where the vertical and horizontal references intersect on the chart, you'll find the exact number of clips and wedges you'll need per square metre.

This intuitive guide is designed to simplify the calculation process, eliminating guesswork and ensuring you have ample materials for your project.

Remember, preparation is key to achieving a professional finish. Always keep some extra clips and wedges handy for any contingencies or last-minute changes.

Note: While this guide offers an estimation, factors like tile layout, breaks, or specific design elements might slightly alter the required quantity.

HOW TO USE A TILE LEVELING SYSTEM

PREPARATION FOR TILE INSTALLATION

Embarking on a tiling project demands meticulous planning and preparation. And while tile leveling systems have revolutionized tiling by ensuring consistently flat surfaces and preventing tile lippage, they can't function optimally without foundational readiness. Below is a comprehensive guide on priming your workspace for a tile leveling system.

Clean Your Canvas

Before diving into the actual tiling process, ensure the base - whether it's a wall or floor - is spotlessly clean. This is paramount as any residue or debris can cause unevenness, known as tile lippage.

Old tiles, vinyl, or carpet remnants must be meticulously removed to ensure a pristine surface. Installing new tiles over remnants jeopardizes the integrity of the bond.

Tile Selection is Crucial

Tiles are available in myriad materials like vinyl, porcelain, and ceramic, each with its unique thickness and properties. It's essential to understand the base where these tiles will be placed, as certain surfaces cater to specific tile types. For instance, different tiles demand different leveling spacers.

Avoid laying tiles directly onto a naked subfloor as this weakens tile-subfloor cohesion. Instead, opt for intermediate layers such as cement boards which bridge the gap between tiles and subfloors. When working with such materials, remember to employ safety measures, like wearing protective goggles against potential chemical reactions.

For plywood subfloors, a gap of one-eighth inch between boards ensures flexibility and minimizes the risk of buckling. Reinforce the joints with fiberglass tape and smoothen the surface using a thin mortar layer. On the other hand, concrete subfloors demand a moisture-free environment and ample curing time, often stretching months.

A golden rule is to ensure the initial tile laying point is perfectly squared. A carpenter's square tool and chalk are invaluable here, enabling precise marking and alignment.

Plan the Tile Layout

Always pre-arrange tiles on the chosen surface to visualize the final layout. This preemptive exercise helps to anticipate adjustments, ensuring tiles fit seamlessly and uniformly.

Have the Right Tools on Deck

Tiling is more than just arranging beautiful patterns. The tools and materials you choose play a pivotal role in the success of the project. Essential items include:

Depending on your tiling specifics, you might also require tile cutters, chisels, measuring tapes, and scrapers. 

Prep Is Not Just Preliminary-It's Primary

A pristine surface is a tiler's best canvas. Self-leveling underlayment (SLU), backer-board, or mud beds lay the foundation for the subsequent use of tile leveling clips and wedges. These systems can manage slight tile lippage but cannot counteract tiles that are significantly out of alignment. Therefore, ensure walls are even, possibly with mud, or by appropriately adjusting the backing board.

Remember: If tiles were forcibly pulled above the substrate, it could create problematic hollow spaces devoid of mortar. This undermines the tile's stability and longevity.

To sum it up, while tile leveling systems work wonders in ensuring uniformity, the magic truly unfolds when there's diligent groundwork. After all, in tiling, as in life, preparation paves the way to perfection.

Install TILE LEVELING SYSTEMS

Effortlessly achieving perfectly aligned and leveled tiles might seem like a challenge, but with the right leveling system, it becomes a much more manageable task. Below is a step-by-step guide on how to effectively use a tile leveling system:

PREPARE THE SURFACE

Start with a clean and even surface. Ensure that any old tiles, vinyl, or carpeting have been removed, and the area is free of debris.

SPREAD THE MORTAR

• Start by spreading the mortar on the surface. Ensure that it is distributed evenly, covering a small section at a time, preferably the area of 2-3 tiles.
• Use a trowel's notched edge to form ridges in the mortar. This helps the tiles adhere better and ensures an even layer of mortar beneath each tile.

LAY THE TILES AND LEVELING CLIPS

• Lay the first tile gently onto the mortar.
• Wipe away any excess mortar that seeps out from beneath the tile.
• Slide leveling clips (bases) under the tile edges, about 2-3" from each corner. If you're working with larger tiles, consider using more clips for better leveling.
• When placing the adjacent tile, ensure it's snug against the clips.

INSERT THE WEDGES

• After laying a few tiles, insert the wedges into the clips.
• Use leveling pliers to ensure a tight fit, pressing down until both tiles are perfectly aligned.
• Periodically wipe away excess mortar to keep your work area clean.
• Allow the setup to dry for the recommended time (usually 24 hours) before proceeding.

REMOVE THE LEVELING SYSTEM

• Once the mortar has dried, you can start removing the leveling system. Use a rubber mallet to tap each clip, breaking them off at the weak point. Alternatively, use your foot to apply pressure.
• If a clip remains, remove it with a utility knife or pliers.

FINAL STEPS

• Grout the tiles as per standard procedure.
• Clean any excess grout or mortar, ensuring a clean finish.

Frequently Asked Questions on Tile Leveling Systems

Are tile leveling systems worth it?

Yes, tile leveling systems are definitely worth it. They help in maintaining a flat surface, preventing tiles from warping or lipping. This ensures a professional finish to your tiling work and reduces the chances of having to redo any work due to uneven tiles. It's a small investment to ensure a better result and can save time and effort in the long run.

What is the best type of tile leveling system?

The best type of tile leveling system is one that is easy to use, effective, and suits your tile size and thickness. There are various types available, including clip and wedge systems, spin doctor systems, and others. It's advisable to research and read reviews to find the one that works best for your specific needs.

Is tile leveling system reusable?

Some tile leveling systems are designed to be reusable, while others are not. Reusable systems typically consist of clips or wedges that can be removed after the adhesive has dried and used again in future projects. Always check the manufacturer's instructions to determine if the components of your tile leveling system can be reused.

What is easy tile leveling system?

An easy tile leveling system is one that is simple to install and remove, requires minimal tools, and effectively levels the tiles. It usually consists of clips and wedges that hold the tiles in place and at an even height while the adhesive dries. An 'easy' system typically has fewer components, straightforward instructions, and requires less physical effort to install and remove.

How do I make sure my floor is level for tile?

Before starting to lay tiles, it is essential to ensure that the surface is level. Use a long straightedge or a laser level to check for any high spots or dips in the floor. If the surface is not level, you may need to use a self-leveling compound or make adjustments by adding or removing the adhesive beneath the tiles. A tile leveling system can then be used to ensure each tile is laid flat and at an even height.

How do I properly remove the clips and wedges?

After the adhesive has cured, the wedges can be taken out with ease. For wall tiles, using a rubber mallet is effective, while for floor tiles, a simple foot pressure will do the trick. The clips are designed with a designated breakpoint below the tile level, making removal straightforward. To remove the clips, tap them in the direction parallel to the tile joint, and they'll break away, leaving the joint clear and ready for grouting.

Can I reuse tile leveling wedges?

Absolutely! Tile leveling wedges are designed for reuse across multiple tiling projects. On the other hand, the clips are single-use and need to be discarded after their initial application. It's advisable to invest in high-quality wedges, as durable ones can withstand multiple uses over various tiling tasks.

Is using a tile leveling system more efficient?

Indeed, tile leveling systems are crafted to guarantee a flawless finish every time. This means there's no need to redo any uneven tile placements, which in turn saves considerable time. Additionally, by preventing tile wastage and reducing the need for corrective labor, these systems are cost-efficient.

What exactly is tile lippage?

Tile lippage refers to the unintended variation in the height of adjacent tiles. Sometimes, due to inconsistencies in the tile or the underlying surface, a tile might bow or shrink, leading to a raised edge or "lip." This lip isn't just aesthetically displeasing but can also weaken the tile bond, raise the risk of tile breakage, and present challenges in tile maintenance.

Is it necessary to use a tile leveling system?

While not always mandatory, a tile leveling system is highly recommended, especially when working with large or uniquely shaped tiles. Given the potential variations in both tiles and their substrates, a leveling system is the most effective way to ensure optimal tile bonding without the risk of lippage. For those aiming for a seamless and professional finish, these systems are invaluable.