You can typically buy a tile cutter for as little as $15-20 USD. Once you have one of your own, you’ll be able to use it for all future tile cutting tasks, which means it will eventually pay for itself. For maximum versatility, look for a tile cutter with a rotating guide that will allow you to make cuts at different angles. Manual tile cutters work best for ripping standard ceramic and porcelain tiles. For tiles made from natural stone, you’ll need to use a wet saw instead. [2] X Research source
Any mistakes you make once you begin cutting your main tiles could end up costing you quite a bit of money in wasted materials.
In most cases, the place where you make your cut will correspond to measurements you’ve taken from the area where the tile will be laid. If the tile is 2 inches (5. 1 cm) too long to fit along a wall, for example, you’d cut 2 inches (5. 1 cm) off the end of the tile. [5] X Research source Double-check your measurements to confirm that the line you draw is as accurate as possible. Otherwise, you could end up with gaps or tiles that are still too large.
Have all of the tiles you need to cut marked and close at hand in order to work more efficiently.
If you need cut multiple tiles to the same specifications, adjust the locking protractor gauge (usually located on the right-hand side of the device) to the desired angle and tighten it down.
Only score each tile once. Making multiple passes increases your chances of breaking the tile or producing uneven cuts.
Apply pressure to the tile gradually to prevent it from breaking along any axis but the scoring line. On some models, you may have to lift the handle to put the lever foot into position to break the tile after you’re finished scoring it.
You should be able to find a rubbing stone or tile file in the tile section at any hardware store or home improvement center. Some rubbing stones have two sides with different grits to give you more control over the texture of the finished tile. [10] X Research source If the cut edge of the tile will be hidden under molding or a nearby appliance or fixture, you can skip this step.
Another benefit of renting as opposed to buying is that you’ll have your pick of a wider range of models, making it easy to find just the right tool for your project.
Some simpler models make use of an open reservoir tray directly underneath the saw table. These tend to be easier to fill and drain. [13] X Research source It’s alright to fill your wet saw’s water reservoir with standard tap water.
When you’re done cutting, you can simply wipe off any remaining ink with a damp cloth.
Always make sure the tile you’re cutting is resting snugly against the guide plate. If there is any space between the tile and the edge of the plate, your cut may turn out crooked. [16] X Research source If the model you’re using doesn’t have an adjustable guide plate, you’ll need to line up the cut line you drew with the saw blade manually.
In other words, your cut line should be positioned parallel to the saw blade.
It’s a good idea to put on a pair of safety glasses before you begin sawing to protect your eyes from any tile particles or water droplets that happen to go flying during the cutting process. As the blade spins, the water from the reservoir will be pulled upward, wetting the blade and making it possible to achieve clean, smooth cuts without damaging the delicate tile.
To keep the tile from shifting, press it down into the surface of the saw table while pulling it back against the guide plate. Try not to apply too much pressure. Forcing the tile into the saw blade could cause it to crack, chip, or break completely. [20] X Research source Be extremely careful to keep your hands clear of the saw blade at all times while it’s in motion. It’s far better to lose a piece of tile than a finger!
Failure to wait for the saw blade to come to a complete stop before reaching for the tile could result in serious injury. Don’t forget to wipe off any last traces of your cut lines before installing the tile.
