How to File Tile

A homemade mosaic requires a lot of tile filing.

Filing tile is about making very small changes to the tile's shape, because big changes are the province of a tile saw. This sort of minor modification is useful in making mosaics, taking the sharp edge off of particular tiles or simply getting a tile to fit into a tight space. Tile files are akin to sandpaper, so they are simple-if-time-consuming tools to use.

Things You'll Need

• Vise (optional)
• Tile file

Instructions

1. Place the tile in a vise with the edge to be filed facing up. If you do not have a vise, you can set the tile flat on a table with the edge to be sanded facing outward, over the edge of the table. This is more awkward, but still a workable substitute. If you do not have pads for your vise, wrap the clamped part of the tile with a rag to avoid scratching it.

2. Set the file against the edge to be filed and push the file down and forward, using steady, even pressure. To remove a sharp edge, push the file down at an angle, so it is not in contact with the entire, flat end of the tile. To make small adjustments in width or length, file down the entire edge.

3. Continue stroking until the sharp edge has been removed or the mirco-change in the size has been made. Periodically, you should stop and blow off debris from the filing and clear both the tile surface and the tile file.

Tips & Warnings

• Tile files look like strips of grating or a strip of grating attached to a handle and are therefore very distinct from most other types of files.

References

• DIY Network: How to Use Tile Cutting Tools
• Ultimate Handyman UK: Tile File