Tile installation is an art form that requires precision, patience, and the right tools. Achieving a flat, level surface is essential for creating a functional, aesthetically pleasing space. But, without the proper tools, tile installation can be a frustrating, time-consuming process. That’s why investing in a tile leveling system is so important.
A tile leveling system is a tool that helps to ensure even spacing between tiles and prevents tiles from lipping or cracking. There are many different tile leveling systems on the market, each with its own unique features and benefits. In this article, we’ll provide a comprehensive overview of the best tile leveling systems available so that you can choose the right one for your next project. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or a DIY enthusiast, having the right tile leveling system will make your tile installation process smoother, faster, and more enjoyable.
Top 5 Best Tile Leveling Systems
- DGSL Tile Leveling System – Overall Best
- RTC Spin Doctor Tile Leveling System – Editor’s Choice
- Raimondi Tile Leveling System – Best For Beginners
- Spin Doctor Lippage Control System Starter Kit
- PERFECT LEVEL MASTER Tile Leveling System
5 Best Tile Leveling System Reviews
1. DGSL Tile Leveling System with Tile Plier – Overall Best
Are you tired of uneven tiles and a messy grout line during your tile installation? Say hello to the DGSL Professional Tile Leveling System, your solution to a perfect, lippage-free finish. This tile installation set is designed for both DIY enthusiasts and professional tile layers, helping them increase efficiency and achieve flawless results.
The DGSL Professional Tile Leveling System is designed to ensure flatness between tiles, avoiding any movements during the mortar setting. The system comes with 300 disposable tile clips that secure the tile position and prevent movement, ensuring a stable and secure installation. The clips are compatible with tiles 1/8″ to 1/2″ thick and are extremely fast and easy to install and remove.
In addition to the tile clips, the set includes 100 reusable wedges that hold the tile firmly in place and allow for a minimum grout joint of 1/16″. The wedges are an economical and effective solution for tile leveling, requiring only 4 wedges and 4 spacers per tile. This makes the DGSL Professional Tile Leveling System the most cost-effective tile leveling system available.
The DGSL Professional Tile Leveling System package also includes a tile plier, which makes it easy to clamp the wedge and clips quickly and efficiently. The plier saves time during the installation process and ensures a flat and even finish.
2. RTC Spin Doctor Tile Leveling System – Editor’s Choice
The Spin Doctor Tile Leveling System 1 by 16Th”, 1.5mm is a high-quality tile leveling system produced by RTC. The system is designed to prevent uneven tiles when laying floors, especially large format tiles. The product is available at a lower price from other sellers, but this particular listing offers free Prime shipping and no import fees deposit.
Need 100Pc Caps: Check Price
Need 250Pc Base Plates: Check Price
The Spin Doctor Leveling System features 1/16″ bases that space, level, and align tiles all in one package. The system is easy to use and requires no additional installation tools. However, the Spin Doctor Cap, which is sold separately, is necessary for the system to work effectively.
For added convenience, optional clear-view shields are also sold separately to provide a clear view of the tiles being installed. The Spin Doctor Cap is reusable, making it an economical choice for any tiling project.
In summary, the Spin Doctor is an efficient and cost-effective solution for preventing uneven tiles when laying floors. With its easy-to-use design and reusable components, it is an essential tool for any tiling project.
3. Raimondi Tile Leveling System – Best For Beginners
The Raimondi Tile Leveling System is a complete solution for efficient and high-quality tile installation. This system includes two critical components, the Wedges and the Clips, that work together to ensure level and aligned tiles, resulting in a seamless and professional finish.
Need 250Pc Clips: Check Price
Need 250Pc Wedges: Check Price
The Wedges are sturdy and provide a secure grip for the tiles, preventing any movement during the curing process. The innovative design of the Wedges pushes the tiles into place, resulting in better tile adhesion and reducing the risk of lifting or shifting.
The Clips, on the other hand, are responsible for keeping the tiles level with each other. The system allows for a minimum grout joint of 1/16″, which provides a consistent and clean look while helping to prevent any unevenness in the tiles.
Raimondi’s Tile Leveling System is not only reliable but also cost-effective, making it an ideal choice for both professional installers and DIY enthusiasts. The system is simple to use and ensures that you can achieve a professional-looking result every time, even for large and complex tile projects.
4. Spin Doctor Lippage Control System Starter Kit
The Spin Doctor Lippage Control System Starter Kit is a comprehensive solution for tile leveling and alignment. The kit includes 100 caps and 250 base plates, making it a suitable option for both small and large tile projects.
The Spin Doctor system features a user-friendly design, with a free-spin mechanism that allows the cap to spin down the spacer screw with minimal effort. This innovative design simplifies the tile leveling process, saving time and reducing frustration.
The Spin Doctor Lippage Control System is an excellent choice for both novice and experienced tile installers. The system is straightforward to use and requires minimal effort, ensuring a professional and seamless finish for every tile installation project.
The kit includes 100 reusable caps, providing a cost-effective solution for tile leveling and alignment. The caps can be used for multiple jobs, reducing waste and providing added value. Additionally, the kit includes 250 black base plates 1/8″, which not only provide functionality but also add a sleek and professional appearance to the installation.
5. PERFECT LEVEL MASTER T-Lock Anti lippage Tile Leveling System
The Perfect Level Master Anti Lippage is a premium solution for tile installation. The system comes in a handy bucket that includes 300 spacers and 100 wedges, making it a comprehensive solution for both small and large tile projects.
The Perfect Level Master system is designed to eliminate lippage in floor and wall tiles, ensuring a professional and seamless finish. The use of special adjustable pliers (not included) is recommended to facilitate tile leveling and make the process even easier.
One of the key advantages of the Perfect Level Master system is its time-saving features. The system eliminates the need for traditional tile leveling, resulting in a perfect result each time. The system is also incredibly fast to install and remove, making it an efficient and convenient solution for tile installation.
The Perfect Level Master system is made in the European Union with the highest quality and precision. The 1/32″ T-Lock ™ feature ensures stability and reliability, making it an excellent choice for professional tile installers and DIY enthusiasts alike.
Why Use a Tile Leveling System?
There are several benefits to using a tile leveling system. First, it helps ensure that your tiles are evenly spaced and level, which gives you a professional, polished look. Second, it saves you time and frustration. When you’re laying tiles without a leveling system, you have to constantly check that each tile is level and adjust it if necessary. This can be time-consuming and frustrating, especially if you’re working on a large tiling project. Finally, using a tile leveling system helps prevent lippage, which is the term used to describe tiles that are not perfectly level. Lippage can be a major issue, as it can cause tiles to crack or break, and can also make the finished surface look uneven and unattractive.
Types of Tile Leveling Systems
There are several different types of tile leveling systems available, each with its own unique benefits.
1. Wedge-and-Clip Systems
Wedge-and-clip systems are the most basic type of tile leveling system. They consist of plastic wedges that fit between the tiles and plastic clips that hold the tiles in place. To use this system, you simply insert the wedges between the tiles, snap the clips into place, and lay your tiles.
2. Spin-and-Clip Systems
Spin-and-clip systems are similar to wedge-and-clip systems, but they have a more sophisticated design. With these systems, you insert a plastic spacer between the tiles and then use a special tool to spin the clips into place. This makes installation faster and easier than with a wedge-and-clip system.
3. Lippage-Free Systems
Lippage-free systems are designed to completely eliminate lippage. They use a combination of plastic clips and special spacers to hold the tiles in place, preventing them from shifting or moving during the curing process. This results in a perfectly level and even finish, with no lippage.
What to Consider for Buying Tile Leveling System
Tile leveling systems are essential tools for any tiler or homeowner who wants to lay tiles perfectly level. With the right tile leveling system, you can avoid lippage, which is the unevenness that occurs when one tile is higher or lower than the surrounding tiles. Lippage is unsightly and can make even the most beautiful tile installation look cheap and poorly finished. However, with so many tile leveling systems available in the market, choosing the right one can be a daunting task. Here we will discuss some of the factors you need to consider before buying a tile leveling system to help you make an informed decision.
Budget
The first factor you need to consider when buying a leveling system is your budget. Tile leveling systems range in price from a few dollars for a simple, manual kit to hundreds of dollars for a professional, automated system. It’s essential to have a budget in mind before you start shopping, so you can narrow down your options and find a system that fits your needs and budget.
Type of Tile
The type of tile you are installing will also play a role in choosing the right one. For example, large-format tiles require a different type of system than small-format tiles. Large-format tiles are often thicker and heavier, so you need a system that can support their weight. Small-format tiles, on the other hand, are lighter and can be installed using a simpler system.
Size of the Tile Area
The size of the tile area you are working on is another important factor to consider. If you’re working on a large area, such as a bathroom or kitchen, you’ll need a system that can handle the size of the space. A manual leveling system may not be practical for a large area, so you may want to consider an automated system. On the other hand, if you’re working on a small area, such as a backsplash or accent wall, a manual system may be all you need.
Experience Level
Your experience level with tile installation is also an important factor to consider when choosing a tile leveling system. If you’re a seasoned tiler, you may be comfortable using a manual system, while a beginner may prefer an automated system that takes the guesswork out of the process. Automated systems are also great for inexperienced tilers because they eliminate the need for constant checking and adjusting, which can save time and effort.
Compatibility with Tile Thickness
Another important factor to consider when choosing a tile leveling system is compatibility with tile thickness. Some systems are designed to work with specific tile thicknesses, so it’s important to choose a system that is compatible with the tiles you are installing. If you’re installing tiles of varying thicknesses, you’ll need to choose a system that can accommodate the thickest tile in your installation.
Reusability
Finally, consider the reusability of the tile leveling system. Some systems are designed to be used only once and then discarded, while others are reusable. Reusable systems are more cost-effective in the long run, as they can be used on multiple projects. However, they may be more expensive upfront, so it’s essential to consider your budget when making a decision.
How to Use a Tile Leveling System
Using a tile leveling system is easy, and once you get the hang of it, you’ll be able to lay tiles quickly and efficiently. Here’s how to use a tile leveling system:
- Prepare the surface: Before you start tiling, make sure the surface you’re working on is clean and dry. Fill any gaps or cracks with grout and sand the surface to ensure that it’s smooth and even.
- Measure and mark your tiles: Use a measuring tape to determine the size of your tiles and then mark the center of each tile with a pencil.
- Install the clips: Install the clips around the perimeter of each tile, making sure that the clips are evenly spaced. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for your specific tile leveling system.
- Insert the spacers: Place the spacers between the tiles, making sure they fit snugly. You may need to use a tapping block to gently tap the spacers into place.
- Lay your tiles: Start laying your tiles, making sure to align them with the markings you made in step 2. Use a rubber mallet or tapping block to gently tap the tiles into place, making sure they are level and evenly spaced.
- Remove the spacers: Once the tiles have been laid and the adhesive has dried, remove the spacers. You can use pliers or a specialized tool to remove the spacers without damaging your tiles.
- Apply grout: Apply grout to the spaces between the tiles, making sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for your specific grout.
- Clean up: Once the grout has dried, clean up any excess grout or adhesive and enjoy your beautiful, perfectly level and evenly spaced tiles!
FAQs About Tile Leveling System
Q. Can it be used on any type of tile?
Yes, it can be used on any type of tile, including ceramic, porcelain, and stone tiles.
Q. How long does it take for the adhesive to dry after laying tiles with a tile leveling system?
The drying time for adhesive will depend on the type of adhesive used and the ambient temperature and humidity. It’s best to follow the manufacturer’s instructions and wait the recommended time before removing the spacers.
Q. Can I use these on an uneven surface?
Yes, a tile leveling system is designed to be used on uneven surfaces, helping to compensate for any dips or bumps.
Q. Can I reuse the spacers?
In most cases, no, the spacers from a tile leveling system are designed for one-time use only. However, some systems may be reusable, so be sure to check the manufacturer’s instructions.
Q. Is it necessary for a small tiling project?
While a leveling system is not necessary for a small tiling project, it can still be helpful in ensuring that your tiles are
Final Verdict
In conclusion, a tile leveling system is an essential tool for any tile installation project, whether it is for a residential or commercial space. It helps to ensure a flat, level surface and prevents tiles from lipping or cracking. The process of using a leveling system is simple and straightforward, and it can save a lot of time and effort compared to traditional tile installation methods. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or a DIY enthusiast, investing in a tile leveling system is a smart move. By following the steps outlined in this article, you’ll be able to achieve professional-grade results and create a beautiful, functional space that will last for years to come.