The Affordable Tile Vibration Tool That Runs Off Your Favorite Power Tool Batteries

Tiles are an attractive, versatile, and hard-wearing choice for flooring. They are often considered the best option for kitchens but can work equally well in bathrooms, hallways, conservatories, mudrooms, etc. The challenge for DIYers is that if they aren't installed properly, the impact will be ruined. Fortunately, there are a number of tips for tile installation that will help you to lay a floor that looks like it was done by a pro. The job can be made even easier with a tool that's surprisingly affordable. What's more, there's probably a version that runs off your favorite power tool batteries.

The tool in question is a tile vibration leveling machine, often just called a tile vibrator. These comprise a suction cup for the effortless lifting and positioning of tiles and a vibration function that ensures the tile adhesive (or thin-set mortar) is spread evenly between tile and subfloor. This avoids any air pockets, ensuring the tile is properly supported and so less likely to crack if subjected to uneven loads. These tools have become popular among tiling professionals because they allow them to work more quickly, but until recently they could cost hundreds of dollars. Now there's a model that has all the features you need but can be found on Amazon for under $50.

People might expect such an affordable tile vibration tool to lack the capabilities of pro alternatives, but a YouTube video shows just how impressive the performance can be. The suction cup will lift tiles up to a maximum of 47.2 x 47.2 inches, so it's perfectly capable of handling the large formats that are currently so popular. A lock lever ensures a firm grip. It has 10 vibration speeds to suit different tile sizes and adhesive thicknesses, displayed on a clear LCD screen. There is even a useful bubble level. The aluminum body is strong but light, and the Mellif tile lifter comes with a 5-year warranty. Battery and charger are not included, but keen DIYers will be happy to hear there are versions of the tool that are compatible with arguably the 3 most popular brands on the market: DeWalt 20V batteries, Milwaukee 18V batteries, and Makita 18V batteries.

Do you absolutely need a tile vibrator? Well, no. If you have the time and skill, then the age-old method of lifting and placing tiles by hand and using a rubber mallet to set them has worked for generations and still does. On the other hand, some tiling experts think tools like the Mellif tile vibrator are easier to learn than traditional techniques. For a modest investment, they can help you lay a host of stylish tile patterns faster, more accurately, and with less effort.