how do you cut tile with a tile cutter for a house?

Answer 1

Cutting tile for a home can be quite simple but there are many different factors... one being the material you are working with.

If it is a vinyl tile that you are working with you can use a utility knife. To make straight precise cuts use a straight edge along the line you are cutting by pressing the knife along the side of the straight edge.

I do have a feeling however, that you are dealing with either a ceramic, porcelain or stone tile. Most ceramics and porcelains can be cut with a tile cutting device (available for rent at many tool centers) called a scribe. With this tool you will actually score the tile and then press down in order to snap the line you just scored. Although it is a very effective tool, it does require some practice and it is possible that you may break several tiles while getting the hang of it. When you scored the tile... you don't need to apply a tremendous amount of pressure but only enough to lightly score the tile.

Another tool that will make sufficient cuts and can be used for most ceramic, porcelain and stone tiles is a 4 or 4 1/2 inch angle grinder with a diamond bit blade. This tool very inexpensive (ranging from 30 - 80 dollars) and the blades are typically 10 - 20 dollars. Basically, you go back and forth with the grinder slowly cutting through the entirety of the tile. Be very careful as these angle grinders can injure you severely.

Lastly, you have wet saws that are designed specifically for cutting tile. These wet saws (some much better than others) will be able to cut any tile or stone as long as they are utilizing a good diamond bit blade. Wet saws are much safer than grinders. You can infact stop the blade from spinning with you bare hands... although it is always best to practice safety with any tool. Wet saws actually spray water on and around the cutting surface making clean cuts very simple. Move your line past the blade slowly to prevent snapping tiles. The price range for a wet saw is pretty broad. You can pick one up that will last a few good jobs from Home Depot or Lowes for about $150. Don't spend less if you're going to purchase one. Most contractors, such as myself, use much more industrial rated saws and cost as much as $2000... these are designed to last long, and typically cut very large tiles, up to 20 - 22" on diagnal.

Regardless of which tool you choose to use, consider using a tile file to smooth your cut edges as they can be very sharp. If you are installing tile for your first time, be sure and research the installation very thoroughly. Taking short cuts and using the wrong materials can be more costly than hiring a contractor. Good luck with your installation!

Answer 2

I've installed thousands of sq. ft. of tile,,,give the 10 to Seth and follow his suggestions. I add one. For a modest price you can get a "Break" a manual cutter, that is designed fror you to score and snap.

If the job is large rent a wet/tile saw, and/or the grinder, on which I use a steel cutting blade. Use the tile saw for the majority of cuts, and BTW make all the cuts that are the same,,,at the same time, Then for inside corners, angle cuts, and small edge pieces, I use the grinder.

Rev. Steven

I don't want to offend, but do you know how to install the tile once it's cut?

Answer 3

Are we talking slate tile or vinyl tile?You may use a tile or utility knife ;slate tile requires a wet tile saw.