Ridgid LevelMax Lippage Reduction System Top Only (100-Pack)

Tile lippage is one of those pesky problems that can turn a beautiful tile project into a tripping hazard and an eyesore. While there are many products on the market aimed at solving this issue, I recently had the opportunity to try out the Ridgid LevelMax Lippage Reduction System Top Only (100-Pack), and I thought it was worth sharing my experience.

Initial Impressions

From the get-go, the LevelMax system stood out due to its user-friendly design. The oversized tops are easier to handle, especially if you’re dealing with larger tiles. No special tools are needed to tighten or install the tops, which is a blessing for DIY enthusiasts like myself who prefer a simpler approach.

The system consists of two parts: the reusable tops (which are what we’re focusing on here) and the sacrificial stems. The tops feature a screw design that allows you to easily tighten them by hand. The durability of these tops is immediately noticeable; they are constructed to withstand multiple uses, which is always a plus when you’re working on large projects.

Ease of Use

Using the LevelMax system was generally straightforward. After spreading the thinset mortar and placing the tiles, I inserted the stems underneath the tiles at the corners and edges. Then, I screwed on the tops to level the tiles. The oversized shape of the tops made them easy to grip and turn, even when my hands were covered in mortar.

However, it’s crucial to place the leveling stems while the mortar is still wet. On my first attempt, I made the mistake of forgetting this step and had to dig under the set tiles to insert the stems, which was quite frustrating. Lesson learned: plan ahead and ensure all stems are in place before the mortar sets.

Performance

The primary job of these tops is to eliminate lippage, and they perform this task admirably. The LevelMax system effectively leveled the tiles, creating a smooth, even surface. It’s worth noting that the system works best with larger tiles (12x24 or bigger). Smaller tiles might not see as much benefit from this system.

One area where the LevelMax system falls short is in managing excess mortar. When you tighten the tops, excess thinset can ooze up through the grout lines, making it difficult to clean. This is something to keep in mind, especially if you are using a lot of thinset. I found that keeping a grout cleaning tool handy during the installation process helps manage this issue.

Durability and Reusability

The tops are built to last. Despite several sessions of use and removal, they showed minimal signs of wear. Removing the tops was a mixed bag. While the instructional video suggested simply kicking them off, I found that kicking didn’t always break them cleanly. A little extra twist before kicking seemed to help, ensuring that the tops broke off more reliably.

Common Pitfalls

One of the issues I encountered was the tendency of the tiles to twist when tightening the tops. This sometimes pulled the tiles out of alignment, requiring me to readjust. It’s a minor inconvenience but one worth mentioning. Additionally, if too much mortar is left around the stems, removing them can become a laborious task, often requiring chiseling to clear the grout lines.

Time and Effort

While the system is designed to save time by leveling tiles during installation, the cleanup can be time-consuming. However, this trade-off might be worth it if the end result is a perfectly leveled floor or wall. For large projects, this system can be a game-changer, as it helps maintain a high level of consistency and quality throughout the installation.

Versatility

The LevelMax system is versatile enough to be used on both floors and walls. I used it for a bathroom floor and was pleased with the results. It’s particularly useful for large format tiles, which are more prone to lippage due to their size and weight. For smaller tiles, traditional spacers might be more effective and less cumbersome.

Conclusion

In a nutshell, the Ridgid LevelMax Lippage Reduction System Top Only (100-Pack) is a solid choice for those looking to achieve a professionally leveled tile installation without breaking the bank. The ease of use, combined with the durability of the tops, makes it a worthwhile investment for both DIYers and professionals.

Would I recommend this tool? Absolutely, but with some caveats. If you’re working with large format tiles and are willing to spend a bit more time on cleanup, the LevelMax system can significantly improve the quality of your tile installation. Just remember to place the stems while the mortar is still wet and keep a grout cleaning tool handy to manage excess thinset. For smaller tiles or simpler projects, traditional spacers might be a more efficient choice.

Overall, the LevelMax system delivers on its promise to reduce lippage and create a smooth, even tile surface. For anyone serious about achieving a high-quality tile installation, this system is worth a try.