Tiling a bathroom or kitchen is one of the most rewarding home improvements you can undertake. It’s a project that delivers instant, high-impact results, making the effort worthwhile. 

However, the quality of that pristine, long-lasting finish is entirely dependent on the equipment you use. The simple truth is, your results are only as good as the tools on hand.

Ready to achieve that smooth, high-quality finish? We’ll walk you through the essential steps and the powerful, professional tiling equipment you can hire from PSM to ensure flawless, long-lasting results every time.

The Most Important Step: Preparation

The key to great results starts with a good foundation. Having a clean, dry, and flat sub-surface is what determines the outcome of your tiling project. 

When preparing an area that has old flooring, worn tiles, or stubborn mortar, you will need serious power to clear it efficiently. That’s where we come in.

For heavy-duty removal, our Breakers and Drills, often fitted with a chisel attachment, are the only way to quickly strip the surface back to a pristine, clean slate. Once cleared, always check the level with a straight edge. If your floor has noticeable dips or slopes, don't worry - you may simply need to apply a self-levelling compound to create that perfectly flat canvas before the first tile is laid.

Mixing Adhesives & Grout

The biggest mistake a DIYer makes is trying to mix tile adhesive and grout by hand. This method almost always leads to lumps and inconsistent mixes, which compromise the bond and can cause tiles to lift later on. To achieve a professional, long-lasting fix, power is what you need.

One must-have hire item is our Electric Paddle Mixer. This tool is key for quickly mixing large batches of adhesive and grout to the perfect, creamy consistency every single time. 

Top tip: only mix enough product to use within the manufacturer's recommended 'open time' (usually around 30 minutes) to ensure maximum performance.

Laying & Spreading

With your foundation secure, the laying process is where your tiling takes shape and precision matters most. Before you apply any adhesive, spend time planning your layout. We recommend snapping a chalk line and beginning from the central point outwards. This technique ensures all your edge cuts are balanced and aesthetically pleasing, preventing awkward slivers against the walls.

To guarantee perfect alignment, you will need a few manual items: a notched trowel (matched to your tile size), reliable tile spacers for uniform grout lines, and a sturdy, long spirit level to continually monitor flatness.

Cutting Tiles Like a Pro

Cutting tiles cleanly and accurately makes the difference when trying to achieve a professional finish. While a manual scorer might suffice for basic ceramic wall tiles, tackling harder materials like natural stone or large-format floor tiles demands serious power. 

For these materials, you need a high-quality Wet Tile Saw. Found in our Cutting & Sawing categories, cutters like circular saws or electric cutters are the ideal equipment. These powerful machines use a specialised blade to deliver smooth, precise cuts every time. 

Remember: safety is a priority. Always wear safety goggles and appropriate protective gear when operating any cutting machinery.

Grouting and Finishing

With your tiles laid and the adhesive cured, the final, crucial step is grouting - the process that truly transforms your installation into a polished, professional surface. 

While PSM provides the power tools, this stage requires a few purchased items for application. Use a Grout Float to firmly push the mixture into the joints. For careful shaping and cleaning, keep a large grout sponge and a bucket nearby. If you chose a natural stone tile, remember to apply a protective sealer according to the manufacturer's instructions. 

Take your time here; a clean, consistent grout line ties the entire project together.

Ready to Tile? Hire Your Gear from PSM Today

Don't let inadequate tools ruin your tiling project. While buying professional gear outright is expensive, hiring is an affordable option that delivers a high return on investment with the guarantee of a flawless, long-lasting finish. 

At PSM Plant & Tool Hire, we offer competitive rates on our professional-grade electric paddle mixers and wet tile cutters. 

Every successful project starts with the right tools. Contact us or call 02088505658 to find out more.