Cheapest Way To Cut Tile
Tiles are a popular choice for floors, walls, and backsplashes. They can add a lot of style and texture to a room, but they can also be expensive. Sometimes, you may need to cut tiles to fit them properly, and this can increase the cost of your project. Here are some tips for cutting tiles in the cheapest way possible.
Cutting Tiles with a Manual Tile Cutter
One of the cheapest ways to cut tiles is by using a manual tile cutter. It's a simple tool that consists of a base, a rail, and a cutting wheel. Place the tile on the base and score the tile with the cutting wheel along the rail. Apply pressure on the handle to snap the tile along the scored line. Manual tile cutters are ideal for cutting ceramic tiles.
Using a Wet Tile Saw
A wet tile saw is a little bit more expensive than a manual tile cutter, but it makes precise cuts on ceramic and porcelain tiles. A wet tile saw uses water to cool and lubricate the blade, which reduces the amount of dust produced during cutting. Wet tile saws can be rented from home improvement stores if you are only planning on using it for one project.
Cutting Tiles with a Grinder
If you have a lot of cuts to make, you may want to invest in an angle grinder. It's a versatile tool that can cut through tiles, metal, and concrete. However, you should be very careful when using a grinder because it produces a lot of dust and can be dangerous. Make sure you wear protective gear, such as safety goggles, a dust mask, and gloves.
Using a Tile Nipper
Tile nippers are inexpensive hand tools that can be used to make curved or irregular cuts. They work best on small cuts or when you need to remove small pieces of a tile. Tile nippers are not very precise and can leave rough edges, so they may not be suitable for all types of projects.
Cutting Tiles with a Carbide-Tipped Pencil
If you only need to make a few small cuts, you can use a carbide-tipped pencil to score the tile. Place the tile on a flat surface and use the pencil to score the tile along the desired cut line. Apply pressure on the tile to snap it along the scored line. This method is not very precise, but it works for small cuts.
Conclusion
Cutting tiles doesn't have to be an expensive task. By using some of the methods mentioned above, you can save money and still get the job done. Determine the type of tile you're working with, the cuts you need to make, and choose the tool that fits your budget and project requirements. Remember to always follow safety measures and wear protective gear when working with power tools.
