As the winter sets in you might be thinking about doing some renovation work in your home, maybe even taking up some DIY projects and learning how to tile. But a question remains. What tile cutting machine should I use? Tiles are an incredible versatile material to be used in a renovation and DIY work. They can be used in the kitchen, bathroom, hallway, living room, and many other places in your home. But, sometimes they need cutting down to size to fit your space. For this you’ll need the right tool for the job.
There are a few different tools available on the market. Using the wrong tile cutting machine can leave your tiles with a bad finish, or even breaking them completely. Therefore, it’s important you know the best types of tile cutting machine and how to use them before you get started.
Whether you need it for a simple or complicated tile installation, explore the must-have tile cutters you need for home projects! So, let’s get this guide started and find out what types of tile cutting machines you need.
WHICH TILE CUTTING MACHINE IS RIGHT FOR YOU?
Before you begin looking at the different types of tile cutters, first you need to know what type of material you’re working with. This includes looking at the thickness of tiles you will be using on your project.
As a rule of thumb, the tougher the material of your tile, the stronger your tile cutter must be. For example, if you’re cutting ceramic you won’t need as much strength and durability compared to cutting porcelain tiles. If you’re using granite or stone tiles you’ll need an even stronger tile cutting machine.
DIFFERENT TYPES OF TILE CUTTING MACHINES
A tile cutting machine is an umbrella word used to describe anything that cuts your tile. Two of the different terms you will see are manual tile cutters and tile saws, or wet saws. We’ve listed the different types of tile cutting tools that fall under each category to help you choose the best tool for the job.
MANUAL TILE CUTTERS
This type of tile cutter is manually operated. They are easy to use and don’t require a power source. They work by scoring a straight line along the surface of the tile. Pressure is then applied to either side of the scored line. The effect is a snapping action. Tile cutters are available in a variety of sizes and are incredibly portable.
Typically, manual tile cutters come in a single rail or dual rail system. It might take a few trials of each to find which one you feel more comfortable with using.
However, it’s worth remembering that not all manual tile cutters are made the same. Some are designed for light DIY work with softer ceramic tiles, therefore they have a lower breaking power.
Whereas others are made for professional work. These are typically larger, take a little more time to set up, and have a stronger breaking power for tougher tiles.
TILE NIPPER
If you have an intricate shape to place a tile around, such as a pipe, or you’re working with mosaics, then a tile nipper might be a good choice to consider. This tool is used to nibble away at small pieces of tile. You use them similar to how you would use a pair of pliers.
These are a great option for cutting tiles in shapes that aren’t necessarily a straight line. There are typically two types of tile nippers available, one for ceramic tiles, and one for porcelain tiles.
The differences between these two tile materials means that the scoring wheel on the nippers needs to be different to score across the tile surface.
RAIL TILE CUTTING MACHINE
Last, but not least, in the manual tile cutting category you have rail operated systems. These are best for large format tiles. With your average tile cutter, you manoeuvre the tiler onto the tile cutting bed, then score and snap. With this system, the rail is adhered to the tile surface through the use of suction cups and clamps. Then a scoring carriage slots into the rail and scores a straight line across the surface of the tile.
The separation of the tile with this system is achieved by using breaking pliers. By placing the pliers at one end of the tile over the scored line and applying pressure the tile snaps, as it would on a manual tile cutter.
ELECTRIC TILE SAWS
A tile saw uses a diamond blade to cut through the tile. Tile saws are much larger, heavier, and require a power source. A lot of dust is produced while using these, along with some heat. They typically have a water reservoir as a cooling method for the blade which also helps to reduce dust. Tile saws are better used for projects that use thick tiles.
Similar to manual tile cutters, not all tile saws are made the same. While they’re larger than a manual tile cutter, some are smaller than others and have a lower horsepower and a smaller motor.
This type of tile cutting machine requires more setting up and knowledge before using. You have to consider the type of tile you will be using in your project before you think about the type of electric tile cutting machine you use.
Our DC Python is a great starting point. It’s an ideal starter kit for DIY work and professional tilers. It can easily cut through ceramic and porcelain tiles with a variety of blades available for it.
If you’re doing more intensive work with porcelain and natural stone, then our DCX might be the better option. For the thickest and hardest materials then our DX 350 is the best choice.
TABLE-TOP SAW
This type of electric cutter is much smaller than the wet saws, but are just as versatile. They take up less space and aren’t as powerful as our DC, DCX, or DX machines. However they are a great option for a DIY job for ceramic and porcelain tiles.
When using an electric saw, the tile sits on the cutting bed and the blade is pulled through the tile. With a table–top saw you push the tile through the blade. We recommend trying a few table-top saws and electric tile cutting machines to see which one works best for you and the tiles you plan to cut.
ELECTRIC RAIL SYSTEM
Again, similar to a manual cutting rail system, you can also use a circular saw that runs on a rail system. These can also be used wet or dry and can use a variety of blades.
The rail sits on top of the tile and is secured with suction cups and clamps. The circular saw then attaches to the rails and is pushed through the tile.
Our TC 125 and TC 180 are electric rail saws and are a great option for people who don’t have the storage space for a larger wet saw, but don’t want to compromise on the quality of cut.
ANGLE GRINDER TILE CUTTING MACHINE
If you own an angle grinder, then you’ll already know how versatile they are. You’ll need to buy a blade suitable for cutting tiles. An angle grinder can be used to cut straight lines or more intricate shapes. Although this isn’t the most ideal way to cut a tile, because of the friction and dust it creates, it is an option if you only have a small tile cutting job to do.
WHICH TILE CUTTING MACHINE IS BEST FOR LARGE FORMAT TILES?
If the tiles you’re cutting are large format tiles, then you will need to ensure that the bed of your tile cutting machine is large enough to seamlessly cut the entire tile, without needing to pause and adjust.
Before you purchase a tile cutter, make sure you have measured the tiles you will be cutting and checked that they can be cut from end to end in one go.
WONDERING HOW TO CUT TILES LIKE A PRO?
Whether you’re looking to do a small home renovation project with just a few straight cuts in tiles, or you’re taking on an intricate task, you can find professional tips and tricks about using tile cutters from the experienced team at RUBI.
We offer the best advice and help you choose the best tools, accessories, and materials for the job, whatever skill you’re at. If you’re ready to get started with the planning of your next project, download our full catalogue to find everything you need.
Post a comment