Lippage is when one tile edge sits higher than its neighbor. It is one of the most common tile complaints, and larger tile makes it more noticeable. Two types of products help: tile leveling systems and horseshoe shims. They sound similar, but they do different jobs.
Tile leveling systems
A leveling system uses clips (or caps) and wedges to pull neighboring tiles flush with each other while the mortar cures. The clip sits under the tile edge, the wedge or cap locks it, and the tiles stay level until the mortar sets. You then break off or remove the top part and the base is covered by grout.
These are most useful for large format tile and anywhere a flat finished surface matters. They come in different joint sizes, so you pick the one that matches your grout line. We carry leveling systems and spacers from Pro Level, LevTec and Bihui, including reusable options like the Bihui TSL50 All-in-One system.
Horseshoe shims
Horseshoe shims are thin plastic pieces shaped like a U. They set the grout joint width and, in some cases, keep tile edges apart while you work. Because they stay in the joint rather than clipping under the tile, they are a different tool from a leveling clip. They are common on wall tile and anywhere you want consistent joints and quick setup.
Bihui horseshoe shims come in 1/16 in., 5/64 in. and 1/8 in. sizes. See everything in our Bihui collection.
How to choose
- Large format floor tile: a leveling system.
- Wall tile or standard joints: shims or spacers.
- Both matter on your job: use shims for joint width and a leveling system for flatness.
Whichever you use, a flat substrate and the right trowel notch for your tile size matter just as much as the clips. Read more about prep in our guide to prepping a concrete floor.
Need help choosing? Contact us.