Different Types Of Tile Cutters
Tiles can be a hassle to cut, especially for do-it-yourself home renovators. Luckily, there are plenty of tile cutters available in the market that range from simple handheld cutters to high-end saws. In this article, we’ll discuss the different types of tile cutters and their uses.
Manual Tile Cutters
Manual tile cutters are easy to use and are ideal for small, DIY projects. They are available in two basic varieties: snap cutters and scoring cutters. Snap cutters are similar to glass cutters and score the surface of the tile before snapping it in half. Scoring cutters use a carbide wheel to create a deep score in the tile, and then pressure is applied to break the tile. Manual tile cutters require some practice to get the hang of them, but they are relatively affordable and can cut a variety of tile types.
Electric Tile Cutters
Electric tile cutters are more powerful than manual cutters and can cut through a variety of tile types with ease. They are available in wet and dry varieties. Wet saws use water to keep the blade cool and prevent debris from flying around, making them ideal for large projects. Dry saws use a dust extractor to remove debris and are perfect for small, indoor projects. Electric tile cutters are more expensive than manual cutters but are ideal for larger projects or frequent use.
Tile Nippers
Tile nippers are handheld tools that are designed to make small cuts or to break off small pieces of tile. They work similar to pliers and can be used to cut ceramics, porcelain, and other types of tiles. Tile nippers come with different jaw sizes and types of blades, allowing users to work on different types of tile. Tile nippers are ideal for small projects that require intricate cuts or for fixing small mistakes.
Masonry Saws
Masonry saws are heavy-duty saws that are designed to cut through thick, tough materials such as stone, marble, and granite. They are typically used by professionals but are available to DIY consumers as well. These saws use diamond blades to cut through tough materials and are available in wet and dry varieties.
Rail Tile Saws
Rail tile saws are professional-grade saws that are ideal for large-scale projects. They feature a sliding table that supports the tile and a diamond blade that cuts through it. These saws can cut through thick tiles and can also be used to make intricate cuts. Rail tile saws are expensive and require some practice to get the hang of them, but they are ideal for professional contractors or serious DIYers.
Diamond Hole Saws
Diamond hole saws are designed to cut circular holes in tiles. They work similar to cookie cutters and come in various sizes. They are ideal for making holes for plumbing, electrical, and lighting fixtures. Diamond hole saws can be used with a drill or an angle grinder and are relatively inexpensive.
Conclusion
Tile cutters range from manual handheld cutters to professional-grade saws. Each cutter has its own unique features, uses, and price points that make them ideal for different types of DIY projects. By choosing the appropriate tile cutter, users can save time and money while producing professional-looking tile installations.
