Bullnosing Tools

Handheld Wet Polishers

• If you are beginning a bullnosing project, the first tool to consider is a handheld wet polisher. Many of the big names in the construction industry -- Makita, MK and Alpha, among others -- make durable, long-lasting electric polishers that perform solidly from job to job. While there is certainly a large variety from which to choose, it is best to look for wet polishers that feature a "variable speed" function, as well as a connection into which a hose can fit. Expect to spend between $200 to $600 (as of 2011), depending on brand name and accessories included with the polisher. Examples of quality hand-held wet polishers can be found in the Resource section.

Polishing Pads

• High-performance diamond wet/dry polishing pads will give you the best possible finish on your bullnosed edges. The polish you can obtain can usually beat even the tile's original factory polish. Reusable resin discs are considered to be the best in the industry and are quite cost-effective compared to disposable sandpaper discs, which can get fairly expensive after too many projects. The necessary tile and stone polishing pads typically come in complete sets, so you don't have to search around for each individual pad. Examples of popularly used polishing pads can be found in the Resource section.

Profile & Grinding Wheels

• Polishing pads take care of the finer, more delicate aspects of applying the shiny finish to a bullnosed edge. Profile and grinding wheels, however, do the dirty work of physically shaping the stone or tile into the curved profile yet to be polished. Grinding wheels are made of diamond and are extremely durable and abrasive. They are meant to be attached to your handheld wet polisher -- like the polishing pads -- and can cost anywhere from $99 to $450 in 2011 prices, depending on the kind of profiling or grinding wheel you choose. Examples of the variety of shaping wheels you can use can be found in the Resource section.

Bullnosing Benches

• The "EdgeRight Bullnosing Bench" is the industry standard. At 48 inches tall and 77 inches long, this lightweight yet durable aluminum work-station is perfect for wet and dry polishing applications alike. It features built-in clamps and can can easily be modified to fit ceramic and stone tile of various sizes. Simply clamp your tiles in place and you can begin bullnosing a row within seconds. The EdgeRight Bullnosing Bench costs around $650 as of 2011. To view this particular bullnosing accessory, view the Resource section.