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DIY made easy! How to cut kitchen tiles
It’s likely that some of your tiles will need to be cut to fit your kitchen splashback, and there may be some that have to be cut into a different shape as well as size. Cutting tiles is not difficult with access to decent equipment and with a little practice. If you’re cutting your own tiles (and especially if you’re doing this for the very first time), it’s a good idea to allow a couple of extra tiles for practice or in case of any slight mishaps that may happen. In this fact sheet we show you how to make a straight cut, cut a shape, cut small shapes, and to cut away small pieces of tile.
When it comes to cutting tiles, there are a few options If you are planning to do a few tiling projects around your home, or are likely to lend specialist tools to friends, neighbours, or relatives; a tradesman’s tile cutter is an excellent investment (and will make you popular with anyone else starting their own tiling projects!) If this is a once-only tiling project, then the best option will be to hire a tile cutter from your local Beaumont Tiles store. You might also consider buying a cheaper ‘handyman’ tile cutter. While these can be a good option, they are not built to last a long time. They will, however, do a great job for one or two jobs around the home.
To make a straight cut Step 1 Using a pencil, mark where the tile needs to be cut. Make sure that you cut the tile smaller than the space to allow for even grout joints. Step 2 Place the tile in the tile cutter and run the scorer across the tile (once only!). This creates a break point in the tile. Step 3 Push down the breaker. This will deliver a nice clean and evenly cut tile.
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To cut a shape Step 1 Using a pencil, mark where the tile needs to be cut. Make sure that you cut the tile on the inside of the line smaller than the space to allow for even grout joints. Step 2 Cut to the scored lines using an electric grinder. Sides first and then the middle. Cut on the inside of the line.
To cut a small shape for a power-point or switch Step 1 Using a pencil, mark where the tile needs to be cut. Make sure that you cut the tile smaller than the space to allow for even grout joints. Step 2 Use the tile cutter to score each of the lines that will be cut. This creates a break point in the tile. Step 3 Break off little pieces (‘nibbles’) of the tile using a pair of tile nibblers until the mark shape has been achieved. Always break of small amounts at a time: never try to break off the whole shape at once.
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Remember:
Always wear safety glasses and a respirator when cutting tiles with an electric grinder.