Cutting Thick Slate With Angle Grinder
If you are thinking of remodeling your home and incorporating slate tiles, you should know that slate is one of the toughest stones in the world. It has a natural texture that gives it a unique look, but this characteristic also makes it tough to cut. However, cutting thick slate tiles can be achieved with the right tools, and an angle grinder is one of them.
Understanding Angles Grinders
Angle grinders are powerful tools that work by spinning abrasive discs at high speed to cut and grind metallic, stone, and ceramic materials. They come with varying disc sizes, starting from 4 inches to 9 inches. Larger discs are popularly used for cutting thick stone materials like slate. The tool comes in two forms, corded and cordless, and both types are suitable for cutting thick slate.
Choose the Right Blade
When cutting thick slate with an angle grinder, choosing the right blade is crucial. The most suitable blade is a diamond blade, which is much more durable than other types of blades. It can cut through tough materials like slate without chipping or cracking.
Cutting the Slate
Before cutting thick slate tiles, the first step is to measure and mark the tiles with a chalk line to minimize errors. Next, you should apply water to the cutting line. This process lubricates the blade and prevents dust from being produced during the cutting process. When cutting the slate, ensure that you hold the angle grinder firmly and cut slowly to avoid cracking the tile.
Finishing the Tile
After cutting the slate, use a rubbing stone to smoothen the edges of the tile. This process gives the tile a professional look, and also eliminates sharp edges that could cause injury.
Safety Tips
When cutting thick slate with an angle grinder, safety should be a top priority. The process produces a lot of dust and debris, so it's essential to wear protective gear like goggles, gloves, and a dust mask. Also, ensure that the angle grinder's guard is in place and functional to prevent accidents.
Cleaning Up
Finally, after cutting the thick slate tiles, cleaning up is necessary. A damp cloth can be used to wipe down the tile and eliminate dust and debris that could be harmful. This process ensures that the tile is clean and ready to be installed.
In conclusion, cutting thick slate with an angle grinder is achievable, but it requires attention to detail and the right tools. Also, it would be best if you embraced safety measures to avoid accidents. With the above tips, you can successfully cut thick slate tiles with an angle grinder and remodel your home to your taste.
