Cutting tiles to the required shapes and sizes can be challenging unless you have the knowledge and the right tools. It will not only be tedious but you can end up having a lot of wastage due to the delicate nature of these items. You could also end up having uneven shapes and sizes which in essence means that the floor or walls will not be attractive. But did you know that with the best tile cutters you can work on your projects smoothly and fast? This document highlights these tools that will help you get the best shapes and sizes from your tiles.
There are several tile cutters in the market and selecting the right one may be an uphill task unless you know what to look for. You may need to do a lot of trial and error until you pick what suits you best. However, it may not be easy since you will need a lot of time and resources. Do you feel confused? Relax! We have used our time and resources to research and come up with the most suitable devices for you. READ on and pick what is perfect for your needs and situation.
Factors to Consider When Buying the Best Tile Cutters
Different forms of tile cutters range from basic manual tools to complex power devices. To be able to choose the right one, you need to consider several factors as highlighted below:
- The Size of Blade
The size of the blade determines the speed and efficiency of the project that you undertake. It is, therefore, necessary to consider the size that best suits your needs. A small blade may be slow and less efficient when cutting the tiles. A wide blade, on the other hand, allows you to cut many tiles in a given period. The standard diameter that suits most home improvement needs is 7-inches since it works on most tiles.
- The Motor
The efficiency of the motor depends on the number of rotations per minute (RPM). Different devices have specific motors with different power of rotations. A machine that has a high rotating power will cut more tiles within a short period and hence is more efficient. It is therefore advisable to take time and choose what suits you best according to your budget.
- The type of tiles you are cutting
The device that you select will depend on the kind of tiles you are cutting. The horsepower rating of the device affects the blade speed and torque. For stronger tiles, a tool with ½ horsepower of is ideal but smaller tiles can be cut with a 1/3 horsepower tool,
- The cost of the tool
High-quality devices are more costly than low-quality ones. It is, therefore, necessary to save enough money to buy a tool that is suitable for your tiling jobs. You should look around from sellers and also inquire from those that have used the tools before you.
- Warranty
It is advisable that when purchasing any device you look for one that comes with a manufacturer’s warranty. You should also ensure that the warranty covers any defects as well as operations. It will be costly to repair a tool that may come with invisible defects or the one that breaks down after a few uses. It is also necessary to ensure the supplier stocks spare parts for the device in case it breaks down. Although you should choose a strong machine, it may not be possible to prevent it from getting spoilt. It is, therefore, necessary to buy a machine from a seller who can refer you to a qualified technician who will fix the machine when it stops functioning.
- Portability
When choosing your tiling tool, it is necessary to purchase one that is lightweight and portable. Ensure that the tool can be moved from one place to another as you do your job. It is also wise to pick a tool that is easy to handle to avoid getting fatigued before completing your tasks.
Top Tile Cutters for 2020 (Best Picks)
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Summary of the Best Six tile Cutters
Since there are different forms and brands of tile cutters in the market, it may not be easy to pick the right one. You may have to use a lot of time doing trial and error or reading online. You may even end up giving up for lack of idea which one to pick or even select one that is not suitable. This guide lists the six best tools that have been tested and certified as best. Read on and select one:
Product name | Features / Benefits |
Skil 3540-02 7 –Inch Wet Tile Saw | Adjustable rip fence Stainless steel top that is corrosion resistant Blade cooling water storage High quality inexpensive |
EAB Tool Exchange flooring cutter | Suitable for cutting vinyl, laminate, engineered flooring, and solid wood Quiet, dust-free operation Angle gauge that allows you to cut up to 45 degrees A replaceable blade that can be sharpened Includes a sharpening stone One year warranty |
Skil 3550-02 7-inch Wet Tile Saw | Hydro lock water container Sliding side extension for supporting the tiles A durable aluminum tabletop Flexible rip fence with miter gauge |
Norske Tools Laminate Flooring and Siding Cutter | 13-inch cutting capacity Compact and simple to use Produces clean, precision cuts Strong high-quality steel and aluminum design Increased leverage due to its extended handle |
QEP 10630Q 24-inch manual tile cutter | Cuts porcelain and ceramic tiles up to 24-inches Adjustable measurement guide for tile alignment Easy to clean with compressed air or soap and water |
Worxsaw 4-1/2 inch compact circular saw | Thin blade for less tool strain Full-size circular saw cutting speed Easy-set depth gauge lever 0 t0 45-degree bevel settings Easy and comfortable to maneuver |
Review of The Popular Tile Cutters
1. SKIL 3540-02 7 – inch Wet Tile Saw
Skil 3540-02 is an ideal wet tile saw for homeowners who may wish to tackle renovations on their own. It is a quality tool that is relatively cheap and perfect for use in installing or replacing various tile floors. The device has a stainless steel top that is corrosion resistant and which supports multiple uses. You will get accurate straight and miter cuts from your tiles since the tool has an adjustable rip fence with a miter gauge.
The machine has a blade cooling water reservoir that helps to keep the blade cool while in operation. It is also possible to minimize dust and debris accumulation hence making if function for long without the need for service. You can be able to produce several cut types since this device has an intricate design for tackling many pieces. It has a 0-45 degree bevel that provides flexibility for cutting.
Features
- Stainless steel tabletop
- Flexible rip fence with miter gauge for accurate and straight cuts
- Bevel cuts tile from 0 to 45 degrees
- Blade cooling water reservoir
- Works excellently when cutting stone ledger panels
- Clean and easy cuts
- Inexpensive
Specifications
- Item weight: 17.69 pounds
- Product dimension: 18 x 14.5 x 7.8 inches
- Color: red
- Style: wet
- Material: steel
- Power source: corded electric
- Voltage: 120 volts
- Warranty Description: 30-day money-back – 1-year warranty
Ideal tile cutter!
2. EAB Tool Exchange Laminate Flooring Cutter
EAB flooring cutter is a perfect tool for everyone regardless of whether you are a heavy-duty user, DIY enthusiast, or a professional contractor. The tool is affordable and it is also designed for excellence in performance, value, and durability. It has an adjustable handle that can be extended for extra leverage when cutting thicker or heavier materials. You will also be able to easily replace the blade when it wears out by disconnecting the screws at the bottom. You should then rotate the two pads to get dust-free cutting every time. You should replace the blade with a new one when it gets dull.
You can work with the honing stone by lifting the blade, setting the stone and sliding it through on both sides. This action helps to take off any burr at the edge of the blade and to remove any gum that may build up from the pastes that are part of the coat flooring. To reduce dust and chipping, you should laminate the floors upside down.
Features
- Extended handle for extra leverage
- Simple blade replacement
- Dust-free cutting
- Durable and high quality
- Excellent value and performance
Specifications
- Item weight: 11.99 pounds
- Product dimensions: 21 x 10 x 3.5 inches
- Size: 9-inches
- Style: professional
- Material: steel, plastic
- Warranty description: 100% satisfaction guarantee
3. SKIL 3550-02 7-inch Wet Tile Saw
Skil 3550-02 is a 7-inch wet tile saw that is suitable for all tiling projects whether you are renovating, updating, or adding tiles to your bathroom or kitchen. The tool has an innovative hydro lock system that minimizes water splash hence the tools can be cut inside the same room where you are installing them. The device works with a 7-inch rim diamond blade that is continuous and which provides even and efficient cutting.
You will be able to use the tool for long and tackle various tiling projects since it comes equipped with an aluminum tabletop that is durable and rust-resistant. It also has a sliding side extension that you can use to support tiles up to 18-inch by 18-inch. The device can cut tiles at a high speed of up to 3,600 RPM, making it easy and quick to complete your project.
Features
- Can be used in the same room where tiling is done
- Innovative hydro lock system to minimize water splash
- Durable and rust-resistant aluminum tabletop
- Sliding side extension for supporting tiles
- A 7-inch continuous rim diamond blade for even and efficient cutting
Specifications
- Item weight: 24 pounds
- Product dimensions: 22 x 18 x 8.5 inches
- Style: wet tile saw
- Material: metal
- Power source: corded-electric
- Voltage: 120 volts
- Amperage: 5A
Ideal tile saw for kitchen and bathroom tiles!
4. Norske Tools Laminate Flooring and Siding Cutter
Norske laminate and siding cutter is a strong tool that is made from superior quality steel and aluminum. It has an extended handle that helps to increase leverage and reduce the effort hence improve productivity. The device can cut a variety of materials that include fiber cement, engineered wood, vinyl siding, and laminate flooring. It can cut materials up to 19/32 inches thick and 13-inches wide. The machine has a compact design that makes it easy to use producing clean, precision cuts.
Features
- High-speed steel
- Clean precise cuts
- The 13-inch high-speed blade
- Dustless and noiseless
- Table miter gauge
- Does not need electricity
Specifications
- Item weight: 13 pounds
- Product dimensions: 25 x 18 x 14 inches
- Measurement system: metric
- Material: plastic
5. QEP 10630 24-inch Manual Tile Cutter
QEP 10630 is a manual tile cutter that helps you to rip cut ceramic and porcelain tile up to 24-inch and 16-inch diagonally. It has a straight edge measurement guide that is adjustable for aligning tiles to ensure accurate cutting. The tool also has a 7/8 – inch tungsten carbide cutting wheel that is titanium coated and which provides smooth and long-lasting scoring. You can easily clean the device using compressed air or soap and water when the need arises.
The machine can also sore smoothly on large tiles because it has dual rugged steel rails that are chrome-plated and linear ball bearing slides. The tool also has heavy-duty rubber pads, cutting table extensions, and a wide aluminum alloy base that provides additional stability for larger, heavier tiles. You will also be able to cut the tiles easily and fast due to the presence of the bicycle grip handle that has high leverage.
Features
- Structured for both porcelain and ceramic tiles
- Suitable for mirrored glass tiles
- Lightweight and easy to use
- Relatively cheap
- Cutting wheel stays sharp for long
- Strong and durable handles
- Cuts easily with minimum physical effort
Specifications
- Item weight: 16.2 pounds
- Product dimensions: 33 x 8 x 6 inches
- Material: metal
- Handle material: rubber grip
- Warranty: 1-year parts
6. WORXSAW 4-1/2 inch Compact Circular Saw
Worxsaw is a compact tool that includes a parallel guide attachment for ensuring easy and quick cutting of straight, precise pieces. The device has a thin blade that helps to reduce straining hence leading to full-size circular saw cutting speed and performance. It also has a blade size of 4.5 inches and a no-load rate of 3500 rpm. You will be able to easily and quickly make adjustments to the device since it has an easy-set depth gauge lever and bevel setting of 0 to 45 degrees.
If you are a DIY enthusiast, it is easy and comfortable to maneuver the tool since it is light and can also cut through nominal 2-inch lumber. You can use the device to cut metal, wood, plastic or even tiles easily and comfortably.
Features
- Left-sided structure for excellent cut-line visibility
- Has an integrated safety trigger for control, balance, and comfort
- 3-years manufacturer’s warranty
- Lightweight and compact
- Easy-set depth gauge lever for easy adjustment
Specifications
- Item weight: 4.4 pounds
- Product dimensions: 15.1 x 4.2 x5.8 inches
- Size: 4-1/2 inches
- Color: black
- Power source: corded electric
- Voltage: 120 volts
Suitable for all materials!
Frequently Asked Questions about the Best Tile cutters
Many people may have different questions regarding the best tile cutters. Below is a list of the FAQs and their answers that may be helpful to you.
Q. What is a tile cutter
It is a device used to cut tiles in the required shape and size. They are vital tools in home improvement and they also come in different forms either basic manual or complex power tools. With a tile cutter, you will be able to shape your tiles according to your desire and pattern necessary for your walls and floors.
Q. What are the tiles?
Tiles are thin objects usually rectangular or square. Tiles are manufactured from hard-wearing materials such as stone, baked clay, metals, or ceramic. They are used for covering floors, roofs, walls, or even tabletops to improve their appearance. They could also be made from lightweight materials such as mineral wool or wood used for ceiling and wall applications.
Q. What are the materials used to make tiles?
The most commonly used material for making tiles is ceramic. The items are typically glazed for such as floor and wall coverings. They can also be made from materials such as cork, concrete, glass, stone and other concrete materials. The stone commonly used for tiling is onyx, marble, slate or granite.
Q. Is it possible to cut glass using a tile cutter?
Yes. You can easily cut glass using a tile cutter if you switch the blades. A blade that is encrusted with tiny diamond is suitable for cutting through the glass without chipping or cracking it. Since glass is more fragile than ceramic or porcelain, it is necessary to be careful and work slowly to reduce the risk of breaking or damaging.
Q. How can I prevent my tile from chipping as I cut it?
You should place the tile on the cutter’s platform with its top facing up if the blade lowers. However, if the blade is in the platform that cuts tiles from the bottom, then you should make sure that the tile faces down. Carefully and slowly cut the tile while holding it firmly on the surface to prevent breakage.
Q. Are there other devices that can be used to cut tiles?
If you are tiling a small area, a glass cutter, angle grinder, or a multi-tool can be used to cut tiles. However, it may take a long period to complete the task since these tools are not designed for this purpose. These devices will not be suitable for bigger projects and to cut delicate tiles.
Q. what is the best cutter for porcelain tile?
Porcelain tiles are very hard and need to be cut with a consecutive deep and powerful incision. A wet tile saw with a diamond blade is more ideal than a manual snap cutter. The wet tile saw can cut through any texture or material and give you an excellent edge finish. It is, therefore, the ideal cutter for porcelain tiles.
How to Use a Manual Tile Cutter
Final Words
Tiling is one of the most common forms of home improvement. You can tile an entire wall or floor or maybe a section of your home. You need the best tools to cut these items into the desired shapes and sizes. Among the must-have tools is a tile cutter and there is a variety to choose. You should pick the most suitable depending on the type of tiles you are dealing with and the amount of work you are doing.
Tiles are made from different materials and each requires a specific tool to cut. The type and size of the blade are crucial when choosing the tile as these will determine the efficiency of the device. It is also crucial for you to look at the quality of this device and how effective it will work without breaking down. If you will be moving the tool from one place to another as you work on the projects, then the portability of the tool is vital. Ensure that you get a lightweight machine and one that you can use for long without getting fatigued.
In most cases, the quality and cost of the device are directly proportional and you will, therefore, need to get a device that gives you value for your money. If you intend to use the tool for long, look for one that will serve you for a long period. It is also advisable that you get a device that has a manufacturer’s warranty since this will save you a lot of money in case it has some defects or if it breaks down during use. Choose the best tile cutter that will enable you to cut tiles like a pro and make your work easy and enjoyable.
References
- https://wiki.ezvid.com/best-tile-cutters
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ceramic_tile_cutter
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tile
- https://www.pinterest.com/srirenukakrishn/tile-cutter
- https://www.pinterest.com/tconsf/tile-saw-guy
- https://www.pinterest.com/drptool/ishii-tile-cutter/
Last update on 2023-03-06 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
