How to Cut Stone Tile

Constructing a tile floor can add a pleasing dimension to any remodel. It can spruce up a kitchen or add class to a bathroom. If you are installing your own stone tile, you'll eventually run into a corner (literally) requiring you to cut a certain portion out of the prefabricated tiles. With a little help, this is a snap.

Things You'll Need

• Wetsaw
• Pencil
• Tape
• Safety goggles
• Math compass

Instructions

1. Place tile around the perimeter of the area, enclosing the space for the custom-cut piece of tile. Tape the edge that will be closest to the molding of the piece of stone to be cut. Tape the edge of the adjacent tile in a long strip parallel to the original tape on the stone to be cut.

2. Push the stone to be cut against the wall until it hits the obstruction. Mark this space on the tape on the adjacent tile. Do the same on the opposite end of the adjoining piece of tile. Take the compass and measure the space created between the tile and the wall not blocked by the obstruction. Using this distance and keeping the pointed edge of the compass against the wall, draw a straight line down the tape on the tile representing the cut line. Do the same around the edge of the obstruction, mirroring the shape of it on the tape

3. Prepare the wetsaw by filling the water tank and plugging it in. Secure the piece of stone tile under the fasteners lined up with the pencil line under the blade. Put on your safety goggles. Turn on the wetsaw and bring the blade to the stone in an even, consistent push. Draw the blade through the stone until you reach the perpendicular pencil line outlining the molding.

4. Turn off the blade, turn the stone, refasten it securely and repeat down the new line. Repeat on all other remaining pencil lines. Ensuring the wetsaw is off, remove your glasses and remove the fasteners. Take the piece of stone back to the empty space and place the cut stone into it. The stone should fit snugly. If it is too large a piece, take it back to the wetsaw and, after securing the stone, sear the edge with the blade, removing about a centimeter at a time. If the piece is too loose, your measurements are off and you'll need to begin again.

5. Ensure your blade is cleaned after each use.

Tips & Warnings

• When using power tools, make sure to consult the manufacturer's manual to ensure proper utilization.

• Always wear safety goggles and utilize professional supervision whenever in question.