Do I need an air compressor?
Q: Thanks for your article on air compressors. I was told that the only way to remove ceramic tile from our floor is with an air compressor, and I was actually looking at them today at Home Depot. I’ve been doing it manually because I’m not in a hurry, but the mud is a pain to remove.
Should I consider an air compressor? I would be using it only for this task and then see no other application for it. So I hate to spend the money if there is an alternative that I can use over time.
A: First of all, it’s important to understand that all an air compressor does is compress air so that it achieves a high enough pressure to be able to power different tools, such as air guns.
The only way I can think of that an air compressor would help you out with your tile-removal task is if you also purchased some type of air-powered chisel to chip up the mud, which would definitely be faster and easier than chipping it all up by hand.
As far as other applications, an air compressor actually is a useful piece of equipment to have if you do much home improvement work. It will power a wide variety of nailers, from large framing nailers to smaller finish nailers and staplers, as well as paint-spraying equipment and inflation accessories.
Air compressor-nailer combinations are available at many home centers and hardware stores that offer you a good opportunity to get a top-quality, name-brand compressor with one or two nailers and even a hose, all for a good price.
You could then also purchase a basic air chisel for less than $50 to help with your tile removal. With any of these applications, always remember to wear both eye and hearing protection.
If you don’t think you’ll have any future use for the air compressor and you don’t want to buy one, you can always rent one at any rental yard, along with the air chisel.
Remodeling and repair questions? E-mail Paul at paulbianchina@inman.com.
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