Leveling clips, wedges and spacers: what's the difference?
Spacers only set the gap between tiles. A leveling system (a clip plus a wedge) sets the gap and pulls neighbouring tile edges flush, which stops lippage. The clip slides under the tile and stays in the floor; the wedge goes through the clip, is tightened with a plier, and comes out to be reused. On tile 8" or larger you normally want clips and wedges; on small tile and mosaics, spacers are enough.
What each part does
| Part | What it does | Reusable? |
|---|---|---|
| Leveling clip | Base slides under two tile edges; the tab sets the joint width | No — the base stays under the grout |
| Wedge | Pushed through the clip to press both tile edges down to the same height | Yes, after cleaning |
| Plier | Tightens wedges to an even pressure, faster than by hand | Yes |
| U spacer | Sets the joint width only; no leveling | Yes, if pulled before the thinset sets |
Which do you need?
- Small tile and mosaics (under about 8"): spacers only.
- Standard floor tile (12×12 and up): clips and wedges. Spacers are optional where clips already set the gap.
- Large-format (24" and up) and planks: clips and wedges, spaced closer. This is where lippage shows most.
- Walls: clips and wedges on larger tile; spacers on small subway tile.
A plier is not strictly needed, but it gives even pressure on every wedge and saves your hands on a big floor.
What is lippage?
Lippage is when one tile edge sits higher than its neighbour. It catches light, collects dirt and can be a trip edge. It shows most with large tile, long planks and raking light from a window. Leveling clips don't flatten a bad floor, though. Prep the substrate flat first, then use clips to hold the edges level while the thinset cures.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need spacers if I use leveling clips?
Usually not between clipped edges, because the clip tab sets the gap. Some setters still use spacers at walls, corners and cut pieces where a clip doesn't fit.
Do leveling clips fix an uneven floor?
No. They only hold neighbouring tile edges flush while the thinset cures. The floor still needs to be flat before you tile.
Do I need a plier for leveling wedges?
It isn't required, but it gives consistent pressure and is much faster on a full floor.
