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When tiling a floor, it’s important to set all the tiles flush and even to prevent a raised edge or lip that would be uncomfortable underfoot or possibly cause a tripping hazard. To ensure a flush installation, make a simple alignment tool from a 10- to a 12-in.-long piece of 2×6. Bevel-cut one end of the 2×6 to 45º to form a sharp, angled point. Then, after setting a few tiles—and before the mortar hardens—slide the block along the floor leading with the beveled end. The sharp bevel will catch on any tile that’s even slightly out of alignment. Place the block on top of the raised tile and tap it with a mallet to lower the offending tile.
Editorial Contributors
Danny Lipford
Founder
Danny Lipford is a home improvement expert and television personality who started his remodeling business, Lipford Construction, at the age of 21 in Mobile, Alabama. He gained national recognition as the host of the nationally syndicated television show, Today's Homeowner with Danny Lipford, which started as a small cable show in Mobile. Danny's expertise in home improvement has also led him to be a contributor to popular magazines and websites and the go-to source for advice on everything related to the home. He has made over 200 national television appearances and served as the home improvement expert for CBS's The Early Show and The Weather Channel for over a decade. Danny is also the founder of 3 Echoes Content Studio, TodaysHomeowner.com, and Checking In With Chelsea, a décor and lifestyle blog.