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Joint board and sponge board: indispensable tools for professional tilers

Discover the versatility and efficiency of a foot board and sponge board

Welcome to the world of tiling, where precision, quality and the right tool make all the important and right difference.

In this article, we're going to look at the features, benefits, and even the downsides of these two must-have tools.

1. What is a foot board?

A tiler removing cement residue after tiling with a sponge board

A jointing board is a useful tool for tilers. It consists of a rubber board with a handle.

But what makes it so special ? It's the rubber pad that makes the difference.

1.1 The rubber pad

The rubber pad for epoxy-based grout must be acid-resistant. This is important to ensure the longevity and effectiveness of the footboard.

2. Use of the foot board

Working with foot board

Use the jointing board to distribute the joint mortar evenly and compact it at the same time.

To do this, pull it across the tiles across the joints to prevent the joints from being scraped out again. Alternatively, you can use the joint rubber.

2.1 Advantages & disadvantages of the foot board

Advantages Disadvantages foot board

Advantages:

  1. Even Distribution: A joint board allows for an even and compacted distribution of grout, resulting in a professional and clean result.
  2. Protection of the joints: Pulling the joint board across the joints prevents the joints from being scraped out again.
  3. Versatility: It can also be useful for other tasks that require an even distribution of materials.

Disadvantages:

  1. Material dependency: The rubber pad for epoxy-based grout must be acid-resistant. If this is not the case, the footboard can be damaged.
  2. Cleaning: It can be difficult to remove all grout residue from the grout board, which can result in a shorter service life.

3. The sponge board

The sponge board is constructed in a similar way to the foot board. A thick sponge is attached to the board.

3.1 Similarities and differences to the foot board

Like the foot board, the sponge board also has a handle. The difference lies in the attachment of a thick sponge instead of a rubber pad.

4. Using the sponge board

Working with sponge board

You can use the sponge board to remove the dried cement film from the tile. With the sponge you run no risk of washing out the joints. The sponge board is used when cleaning tiles and spreading plaster.

4.1 Choosing a quality sponge board

When buying, make sure that the sponge is of good quality in order to be able to clean the tiles optimally.

A high-quality board can be washed thoroughly.

You get sponge boards with different strengths. The pore size differs, usually a sponge with medium-sized pores is the right choice. Screened sponges have particularly good absorbency.

4.2 Advantages & Disadvantages of Sponge Board

Advantages Disadvantages of a sponge board

Advantages:

  1. Effective cleaning: A sponge board is ideal for removing dried cement residue and cleaning tiles.
  2. Protection of the joints: With the sponge you run no risk of washing out the joints.
  3. Versatility: It is also used when spreading plaster.

Disadvantages:

  1. Quality Dependency : The quality of the sponge is critical to the effectiveness of the sponge board. An inferior sponge cannot clean the tiles optimally and can wear out quickly.
  2. Pore ​​Size Selection: Proper pore size is critical to the absorbency of the sponge. A sponge with pores that are too large or too small may not be effective.

4.3 For which tiling work is a sponge board used?

5. Conclusion on the foot board and sponge board.

A joint board or a sponge board are both useful tools for tilers.

6. FAQs - Frequently asked questions about the foot board and sponge board

  1. What is the difference between a fugue board and a sponge board? A grout board has a rubber pad and is used to spread and compact grout. A sponge board has a sponge and is used to remove cement residue and to clean tiles.
  2. How do I choose a quality foot board or sponge board? Pay attention to the quality of the rubber pad or sponge and the finish of the handle. A good board can be washed thoroughly.
  3. How do I use a foot board or sponge board correctly? Drag the jointing board across the tiles across the joints to evenly distribute and compact the grout. Use the sponge board to remove dried cement residue and clean the tiles.
  4. Can I use a jointing board for purposes other than tiling? As a rule, a jointing board is used specifically for tiling. However, it could also be useful for other tasks that require an even distribution of materials.
  5. How do I clean my foot board or sponge board after use? A high-quality board can be washed thoroughly. Be sure to remove any residual grout or cement residue to prolong the life of your board.
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    "With my many years of experience in the tool industry, I can give you helpful tips and tricks for DIY and handicrafts".

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