A leveling system holds adjacent tiles flush while thinset cures, eliminating lippage on large-format and rectified tile. Here is the pro method with clips, wedges and reusable caps.
1. Set the tile in thinset
Comb out thinset with the right notched trowel, back-butter large tiles, and set them as usual.
2. Place the clips
Slide a clip under the edge of each tile, two per side on large format, kept a few inches off the corners. The base sits in the thinset under the tile.
3. Insert the wedge or cap
Push a wedge, or thread a reusable cap, through the clip until it draws the two tiles flush. Use the tightening pliers for consistent, firm pressure; hand pressure alone is uneven.
4. Cure, then break the clips
After the thinset cures, tap or kick the clips along the joint to snap the base below the surface. Wedges and caps are reusable; the clip base stays buried.
Clips vs spacers
Spacers set joint width; leveling systems set flatness. On large-format tile you want both, as covered in spacers vs leveling systems.
Frequently asked questions
How many clips per tile? Two per side on large format (4-8 per tile depending on size); fewer on small tile.
See the leveling system guide and shop tiling tools. Pro Program members earn points on refills.