Cutting Floor Tiles Around Toilet: Tips and Techniques
Are you planning to refurbish your toilet floors or install new tiles? The process of tiling a floor can be an easy and fun task, but it can also be challenging when you need to cut tiles around obstacles such as a toilet. Fortunately, with the right tools, techniques, and tips, you can accurately cut floor tiles around a toilet and achieve a neat and professional finish. In this article, we’ll take you through the essential steps to help you cut floor tiles around the toilet.
Tools You’ll Need
Before we dive into the techniques, it’s important to gather all the necessary tools and materials for the job. To cut the tiles around the toilet, you’ll need the following tools:
- Tile cutter
- Tile nippers
- Tile saw
- Tape measure
- Pencil
- Safety goggles
- Dust mask
- Gloves
Preparation
Preparing the floor is an essential part of any tiling project, and in this case, it’s no different. First, remove any old tiles or the previous flooring material around the toilet area. Ensure that the floor is clean, dry, and level. Measure the distance between the edge of the toilet and the wall where you’ll lay the tiles. Mark the center of the toilet flange on the floor using a pencil.
Marking the Tiles
The next step is to measure and mark the tiles that will fit around the toilet. Start by placing the tile on the floor next to the toilet and mark the tile with a pencil where it meets the toilet. You can use a square or a level to ensure that the line is straight. Repeat the process with the adjacent tiles until you have marked all the tiles around the toilet.
Cutting the Tiles With a Tile Nipper
A tile nipper is a handy tool for cutting curves and shapes on tiles. To cut the marked tiles, start by using tile nippers to nip off small pieces of the tile along the marked line. Take small bites from the edge of the tile and use the nippers to shape the tile to fit around the toilet. This technique is ideal for cutting curves and angles. However, it may not be ideal for larger cuts.
Cutting the Tiles With a Tile Saw
For larger cuts, a tile saw is more efficient than tile nippers. A tile saw is electric and cuts tiles by grinding or sawing through them. To cut tiles using a tile saw, start by marking the tile where it needs to be cut. Hold the tile firmly on the saw, keeping your fingers away from the blade. Push the tile forward to cut it along the marked line. Remember to wear safety goggles, a dust mask, and gloves when using a tile saw.
Cutting the Tiles With a Tile Cutter
A tile cutter is a manual tool that scores the tile and then snaps it along the scored line. It’s an ideal tool for straight cuts, cuts along edges, and cutting small corners from tiles to fit around the toilet. To cut tiles using a tile cutter, start by marking the tile where it needs to be cut. Place the tile on the cutter and adjust the cutter appropriately. Score the tile, aligning the line with the cutter’s wheel. Push the lever down to snap the tile along the line.
Final Thoughts
Cutting tiles to fit around a toilet requires precision and patience. With the right tools and techniques, you can achieve a flawless finish. Remember always to wear safety gear and be cautious when using electric tools. If you’re not sure about cutting tiles or tiling, it’s best to seek the services of a professional. We hope this guide has been helpful in providing tips and techniques that will make your tiling project a success.
