How to Cut Ceramic Tiles

There are two ways to cut ceramic tiles. The cheaper solution is to use a manual tile cutting tool, and you can purchase this tool at a home improvement store for less than $20. The second way to cut ceramic tiles is to buy a power tile cutter for less than $200.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Determine which method of tile cutting you will be using. The power tile cutter will give you more precision and greater productivity. However, the hand cutting tool could get your small tile project done on a cheaper budget.

2. Buy the required tiles for the projects. Calculate the square feet of your tile project. You will want to buy an extra 20%. This will allow you to discard badly cut tiles without having to run out to buy more tiles.

3. Determine the layout of your tiles. You may want to buy a different tile for the edges of your project. Also, you may want to use different colors for certain area of the projects.

4. Mark the tiles with a line for the appropriate cut on each tile. It is important that you measure twice and cut once.

5. Cut the tiles using a hand cutting tool or tile cutting machine. If you are using a machine, following the manufacturer's instructions. Typically, a tile cutting machine requires that you use a liberal amount of water to facilitate cutting.

6. Verify that the cut edge is relatively straight after you cut the tile. If it is crooked or chipped, discard the tile and recut it.

7. Place the tile into your tile project. Remove it and cut a new one if it doesn't look quite right.

Tips & Warnings

• If you are using a tile cutting machine, be careful that you do not cut the tile too quickly because this will cause the tile to chip.
• If you're using a tile cutting machine, be extremely careful that you do not injure yourself. Follow all safety precautions recommended by the tool manufacturer.