Two Sawhorses Ain’t Enough

Why Two Sawhorses Aren’t Enough Anymore: The Limits of Working with Large Format Tiles Without a Proper Workbench

In recent years, the tiling industry has undergone a deep transformation due to the rise of large format tiles. Increasingly popular in modern and minimalist interiors, these slabs bring new operational challenges for tilers. One of the most common—and often underestimated—is the need for proper support during cutting and other pre-installation processes (e.g., double spreading).

Many contractors still rely on just two sawhorses to support tiles during installation or preparation. While this may seem like a simple and affordable solution, it comes with clear limitations and risks, both in terms of accuracy and safety.

The Drawbacks of Using Sawhorses with Large Format Tiles

Supporting large tiles with just a pair of sawhorses exposes installers to several issues:

Lack of stability: A tile measuring 100 x 200 cm (or larger) requires continuous support. With only two contact points, the slab essentially forms a bridge that can flex—and even vibrate—under weight during processing.
Breakage risk: Even modest pressure in the wrong spot can compromise the integrity of the slab.
Reduced accuracy: Uneven cuts, difficult measurements, and awkward handling are everyday issues without a stable platform.
Worksite safety: An unstable slab also poses hazard to the installer.

The Current Alternatives: Dedicated Workbenches for Large Formats

Professional equipment manufacturers have long been working to address this problem.

One example is the Ghelfi Slatted Workbench and similar products from competing brands, specifically designed for handling large and extra-large format slabs.

These systems offer a stable, modular, and professional work surface, tailored to the demands of construction sites.

However, even these dedicated workbenches come with significant downsides:

Bulky and heavy: Often cumbersome to transport and difficult to set up in tight spaces.
High costs: The upfront investment may be steep for many small contractors.
Fixed dimensions: Not always adaptable to the specific needs of a particular job.

The New Frontier: Modular Extendable Workbenches

To overcome these limitations, more versatile solutions are gaining traction—like extendable modular workbenches, including our flagship model:

Millepiedi – the professional extensible workbench by Ghelfi Srl

These innovative benches offer:

✅ Modular and extendable structure, adaptable to the size of each slab
✅ Lightweight and easy to transport, perfect for on-site use
✅ Quick assembly and disassembly, operational in just seconds
✅ Stable and uniform support surface, preventing tile bending or breakage

Millepiedi, in particular, was created to bridge the gap between makeshift sawhorses and bulky industrial benches.

It’s a durable yet lightweight structure with closely spaced continuous supports, specifically designed to make large tile handling safer and easier.

Conclusion: Evolution for a Better Craft

Installing large tiles demands tools that are up to the task.

Continuing to rely on improvised sawhorses might seem cost-effective, but it often leads to higher risks—in terms of efficiency, safety, and the quality of the final result.

Investing in an extendable workbench like Millepiedi isn’t just a technical upgrade—it’s a practical step toward more precise, safer, and professional tiling.

Do you have questions, or want to know more about how Millepiedi can improve your daily work?