As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Knee pads
The single most useful piece of kit on a flooring job. Gel or foam pads with a hard shell let you slide and turn. Use soft-faced ones on finished floors to avoid scratching.
Safety glasses
Wear them for every saw cut and when tapping planks: chips of laminate, tile and grit fly further than you expect.
Hearing protection
Mitre saws, grinders and nailers are loud. Ear defenders or plugs prevent damage that does not come back.
Dust mask
Use an FFP2 or N95 mask at least, FFP3 for heavy dust. Cutting tile, stone and concrete releases crystalline silica, which is harmful to the lungs. Cut outside, use a wet saw, or connect an extractor where possible. HDF dust from laminate also irritates the airways.
Gloves
Cut-resistant gloves for handling tiles and sharp offcuts; nitrile gloves for adhesive, levelling compound and grout, which are alkaline and irritate skin.
Work area
Keep the cutting station away from the laying area, clamp workpieces, and keep cables out of the walkway.