Tillerstead Product Recommendations
Renovation is complex—our goal is to simplify it. Every product here is used by Tillerstead on New Jersey projects, selected for compliance with ANSI/TCNA standards and real-world reliability. No paid placements, no marketing fluff—just proven solutions for South Jersey’s unique conditions.
Whether you’re managing a DIY project or verifying your contractor’s specs, this list is organized for clarity. Click any product for full details and direct Amazon purchase.
Need technical guidance? Unsure about joint size, substrate prep, or code compliance? Contact us—our advice is always ANSI/TCNA-based.
Project Planning & Measurement Tools
Start here for accurate estimates and scope definition. These tools streamline planning and ensure your project meets code from day one.
Room By Room Project Planner: Organize Interior Design Ideas & Contractor Quotes
Consolidate layouts, specs, quotes, and timelines. Essential for multi-trade coordination and code documentation. Documenting existing conditions before demo is critical for New Jersey HIC compliance.
Pro tip: Photograph and sketch all utilities and framing before demolition. This record is invaluable for code inspections and warranty claims.
BOSCH GLM100-23 Laser Distance Measure (100 Ft Range)
Enables fast, accurate room measurements for material takeoffs and TCNA flatness verification. Eliminates manual errors and supports digital project records.
Compliance tip: Measure diagonals and multiple axes to confirm squareness—critical for large-format tile layouts per TCNA guidelines.
Tile Installation Systems
Products in this section are selected for ANSI/TCNA compliance and proven performance in South Jersey’s climate.
DGSL Tile Leveling System (1200 Spacers + 300 Wedges + Plier)
Ensures flat, code-compliant installations by minimizing lippage. Suitable for floors and walls. Prevents the most common DIY failures.
Spec guidance: Joint width depends on tile size and edge type. Contact us with your tile specs for ANSI-compliant recommendations.
Cotton Farm Grade 100 XL Cheesecloth (36x36", Unbleached)
Outperforms sponges for final grout cleanup. Reusable and compliant with best practices for surface protection.
Technique: Use nearly dry for haze removal. Wait 72 hours post-grout for final buffing per manufacturer instructions.
Waterproofing & Substrate Preparation
Proper substrate prep is the foundation of a code-compliant installation. See our waterproofing systems comparison.
Custom Building Products RedGard Waterproofing Membrane (1 Gallon)
Field-proven for cement board showers and tub surrounds. Apply with mesh at all plane changes. Meets New Jersey code for wet area waterproofing.
Field tip: Use a wet-film gauge to verify 30–35 mil thickness per coat. Allow full cure before flood testing.
Schluter KERDI 200 Waterproofing Membrane Roll (3'3" x 33')
The industry benchmark for full shower waterproofing. Use only with unmodified thinset (ANSI A118.1) for warranty compliance.
Compliance tip: Modified mortars void manufacturer warranty. Always check current spec sheets.
LATICRETE HYDRO BAN Board (32" x 48" x 1/2")
Combines substrate and waterproofing in one step. Ideal for retrofits and time-sensitive projects. Requires HYDRO BAN sealant at all seams.
Mapei Self-Leveler Plus (50 lbs)
Corrects out-of-level floors for large-format tile. Meets TCNA flatness requirements (≤1/8" in 10'). Walkable in 2–4 hours.
Schluter DITRA Uncoupling Membrane (54 SF Roll)
Uncouples tile from substrate movement and provides waterproofing when seams are sealed. Essential for wood subfloors and radiant heat.
Mortars & Grouts
All mortars and grouts listed meet or exceed ANSI and ISO standards. See our large-format tile guidance.
Mapei Ultraflex LFT Large Format Tile Mortar (50 lbs)
Non-sag, extended open time for tiles up to 18". Used for rectified porcelain and large-format installations.
Mixing: 6–7 quarts water per 50 lb bag. Mix to mayonnaise consistency for optimal bond.
Custom Building Products VersaBond Fortified Thinset (50 lbs)
Reliable for ceramic and porcelain up to 12". Polymer-modified for bond strength. Readily available for urgent repairs.
Schluter SET Unmodified Thinset Mortar (50 lbs)
Required for bonding Schluter membranes. Do not substitute with modified mortars—check manufacturer requirements.
Mapei Ultracolor Plus FA Rapid-Set Grout (10 lbs)
Consistent color, minimal efflorescence, and fast cure. Used on 80% of Tillerstead residential jobs.
Mix small batches: Pot life is 30–45 minutes. Clean tools immediately—sets fast.
Laticrete SpectraLOCK PRO Premium Epoxy Grout Kit
Chemical-resistant and stain-proof. Required for commercial kitchens, labs, and high-abuse areas. Not recommended for first-time DIYers.
Installation warning: Requires speed and experience. Practice on sample boards before live installs.
Tools & Equipment
Professional tools ensure code-compliant results and reduce installation risk.
QEP 24" Aluminum Tile Saw Fence
Delivers straight, accurate cuts for rectified tile. Essential for maintaining 1/16" joint consistency per TCNA standards.
Marshalltown 11" x 11" U-Notch Trowel (1/2" x 1/2")
Ensures proper mortar coverage for tiles 12" and larger. Use with back-buttering for complete coverage as required by TCNA.
Empire 48" True Blue Laser Level
Validates substrate flatness to TCNA tolerance (≤1/8" in 10'). Prevents lippage and installation failures.
Rubi DW-250N Wet Tile Saw (10")
Professional-grade saw for porcelain and large-format tile. Rent for single projects or purchase for ongoing work.
DIY tip: Rental available at Home Depot for one-off projects.
Safety & PPE
OSHA and New Jersey code require silica dust protection. Don’t compromise on safety.
3M 6300 Half Facepiece Reusable Respirator (Large)
Protects against silica dust during cutting and grinding. Replace filters every 40 hours. Required PPE for all tile work.
Knee Pads Pro Comfort Gel Construction (1 Pair)
Protects knees during extended installs. Hard cap and gel cushioning prevent injury and fatigue.
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Frequently Asked Questions
- Do affiliate links increase my cost?
- No. Amazon’s prices are the same whether you use our link or not. The commission is paid by Amazon, not you.
- Are these the exact products Tillerstead uses?
- Yes. We source most materials locally for speed, but these links match our field specs for homeowners and contractors.
- Can I hire Tillerstead for my project?
- We serve Atlantic, Cape May, and Ocean counties, New Jersey. Contact us for availability. Outside our area? Use these specs to vet your contractor’s material choices.
- What if a product link is broken or out of stock?
- Amazon changes product IDs frequently. If a link fails, search by product name and brand. We update links quarterly.
- Do you recommend products from other retailers?
- Currently, only Amazon offers a viable affiliate program for independent contractors. We’re evaluating other partnerships.