What is the best way to cut big tiles?

When it comes to cutting large format tiles, having the right tools and techniques is essential for getting clean, precise cuts. Large format tiles, like 12×24 inch tiles or larger, require more specialized cutting tools than standard 4×4 or 6×6 inch tiles. Simply scoring and snapping them often leads to jagged edges and uneven breaks. The good news is that with the right tile saw or cutting system, some careful measurements, and proper handling, you can get professional-looking cuts on your large tiles.

What are the challenges of cutting big tiles?

Large tiles present a few unique challenges when it comes to cutting:

• Greater weight – Larger tiles are heavier and more cumbersome to maneuver and align when cutting.
• Increased fragility – Bigger tiles tend to be more prone to cracking, chipping, or breaking during cutting if not handled properly.
• Difficult to score and snap – Scoring and snapping is unreliable for clean cuts on big tiles. The tile often breaks unevenly if you try this method.
• Large cut length – Long cuts take more precision and care to ensure straight edges with no wavering.

To overcome these challenges, using the proper cutting tools and techniques is a must for larger tiles. Let’s look at the best options.

Wet saw

A wet saw is the preferred cutting tool for most tile installers when working with large format tiles. Wet saws use a continuous stream of water to cool and lubricate the diamond blade as it cuts. The water prevents overheating and also minimizes dust and debris. Models made specifically for tile are equipped with adjustable fences that allow you to align and guide the tile for straight cuts. look for a wet saw designed for tile rather than stone or masonry, to ensure the right blade and adjustments for tile material.

Here are some benefits of using a wet saw for large tile cuts:

• Diamond blade provides clean, smooth cuts with no chipping.
• Water keeps blade and tile cool.
• Adjustable fences enable straight, precision cuts.
• Cuts most tile types – ceramic, porcelain, natural stone.
• Easy to learn technique with a little practice.

Wet saws do have some downsides to consider:

• More expensive purchase price than basic hand tools.
• Requires a water hookup and drainage.
• Slower than a snap cutter for simple straight cuts.
• Messy water splashing during cutting.

However, for clean and accurate large tile cuts, a quality wet saw is worth the investment for most homeowners or pros.

Snap tile cutter

While manual snap cutters are not ideal for scoring and snapping large tiles, a heavy-duty model designed for bigger tiles can provide good results. Look for a snap cutter with widened rails and a comfortable, large grip handle to control the pressure needed for bigger tiles. A score and snap tool with 7mm or greater cutting capacity specifically made for ceramic and porcelain is best for large tiles.

Benefits of using this type of snap cutting tool include:

• Lower cost option than a wet saw.
• Quick straight cuts once score line is made.
• No water or electricity required.
• Compact and portable design.

Limitations to consider:

• Not as precise as a wet saw, takes a steady hand.
• Higher chance of uneven tile breaks.
• Difficult for diagonal or curved cuts.
• Tiles may chip if not scored properly.

A heavy-duty snap tile cutter can be a good choice for simpler straight cuts. But for top quality results on large tiles, a wet saw is recommended.

Angle grinder

For experienced DIYers, an angle grinder with a diamond tile blade is an option for cutting large tiles. Angle grinders allow you to cut curves and make detailed cuts that are not possible with a snap cutter or wet saw. However, controlling an angle grinder takes skill and careful handling to avoid cracking the tile.

Benefits of an angle grinder for tile:

• Make curved, L-shaped, or custom cuts.
• No need for water hookup like a wet saw.
• Versatile for other uses like stripping grout or sanding.

Disadvantages to consider:

• High potential to crack, shatter, or chip tiles if mishandled.
• Lots of debris and dust created.
• Increased risk of injuries from spinning blade if not cautious.
• Difficult for beginners to control properly.

Angle grinders can cut large tiles, but the risk of damage and safety issues make it advisable for only very experienced tile cutters to attempt this method.

Jigsaw

A jigsaw with a diamond grit tile blade is another electric cutting option sometimes used for detailed or curved cuts in large tiles. Jigsaws offer better control and stability than an angle grinder when making tricky cuts. But you still need a very steady hand and careful technique to avoid cracking or chipping the tile with a jigsaw.

Potential advantages of using a jigsaw include:

• Good for curved, circle, or custom cuts.
• Better control than an angle grinder.
• Less dust than a dry cutting angle grinder.

Downsides to keep in mind:

• Potential for tile chipping or cracking.
• Slow process requiring very precise saw control.
• Not designed specifically for tile like a wet saw.
• Jigsaw blades may need frequent replacing when cutting tile.

Similar to an angle grinder, a jigsaw can cut shapes in large tiles, but inexperienced users may end up damaging the tile with this method. It takes skill and practice to effectively control a jigsaw when cutting tile.

How to cut big tiles with a wet saw

Using a wet saw properly is crucial for getting clean, straight cuts in large tiles. Follow these tips when cutting large tiles with a wet saw:

1. Select the right diamond blade. Choose a continuous rim diamond blade designed specifically for cutting ceramic or porcelain tile. It should be the proper size for your saw.
2. Adjust the fence. Ensure the fence on the saw is set for the width of the tile you are cutting. Lock it at a perfect 90 degree angle.
3. Lubricate the blade. Run water over the diamond blade for a minute or two before starting cuts to lubricate it.
4. Feed the tile slowly. Steadily guide and feed the tile into the blade without forcing it, allowing the blade to do the cutting.
5. Support long cuts. For a long cut, place a piece of wood under the tile close to the cut to prevent breaking from its own weight.
6. Check blade condition. Replace your blade when it starts taking longer to make cuts or produces chipping.

Patience and care is required when guiding large tiles through a wet saw. Don’t rush the cutting process. Let the diamond blade do the work with steady, even pressure as you feed the tile.

Cutting tips to prevent tile chipping

Chipping is one of the most common cutting problems with large tiles. Follow these precautions to help avoid chips, cracks, or broken corners:

• Use a tile specific wet saw or snap cutter, rather than a grinder or jigsaw.
• Ensure your saw blade or snap cutter wheel is in good condition, not worn.
• Cut tiles face side up to prevent bottom chipping.
• Work slowly and steadily when feeding tiles into cutter.
• Score tiles properly before snapping.
• Support large tiles when making long cuts.
• Cut tiles with a 5-10 degree bevel angle to reduce corner chips.
• Use edge protection strips when needed.

Chipped tiles cannot be repaired so it’s important to get cuts right the first time. Patience and the proper cutting tools are key.

How to handle and transport large tiles

Safely moving large format tiles requires some care to avoid cracking or breaking them. Here are some tips:

• Use a tile dolly or carefully place tile on a wheeled cart to move multiple tiles.
• Carry single tiles vertically on their short edge.
• Support the center and edges of tile when carrying.
• Set tiles gently when transporting, don’t drop.
• Have another person assist with carrying very large tiles.
• Lay tiles flat and fully supported, not leaning.
• Don’t stack tiles on top of one another.

Taking your time when moving large format tiles and exercising caution can prevent costly breakage or cracks.

Cutting different types of tiles

The cutting method may need to be adjusted slightly based on the type of tile you are cutting:

Porcelain

Porcelain tile is very dense and hard, making it more prone to chipping if cut too quickly or forcefully. Use a fresh diamond blade and slow feed rate when cutting porcelain.

Ceramic

Softer than porcelain, ceramic tile cuts easily but can crack more easily if mishandled. Support ceramic tile well and control the snap cutter firmly when scoring.

Natural Stone

Natural stone tiles like marble or travertine have slight variances that require close attention when cutting. Use a blade made for natural stone and feed slowly to account for changes in the stone density.

Glass

Glass tile cuts smoothly but its brittle nature leads to chips if you apply too much pressure. Use a blade made for glass and work slowly and carefully.

Always consider the qualities of the material you are cutting to adjust speed, pressure, and support to get the best results.

Cutting Patterned Tiles

When cutting patterned tiles like mosaic sheets, planning the layout first is crucial so cuts do not ruin the pattern design. Here are some tips for cutting patterned tile sheets:

• Dry lay tiles first to find best layout and identify needed cuts.
• Aim to make cuts in grout lines or least noticeable areas.
• Use edge/perimeter tiles for partial pieces needed.
• Make precision cuts with wet saw for clean results.
• Use a carbide scoring wheel for straight matrix cuts.
• Consider spacing and patterns when cutting irregular shapes.

With planning and care, you can make necessary cuts in patterned tile sheets while preserving the intended design.

Using a tile cutting board

A cutting board provides a sturdy, waterproof surface for safely cutting tiles with minimal vibration. This helps improve cutting accuracy and reduce slipping. Look for a cutting board at least 1/2-inch thick for rigidity.

Benefits of using a tile cutting board include:

• Prevents breaking or cracking tile from board flexing.
• Allows precise tile alignment against guides.
• Helps properly support tile when cutting.
• Eliminates need to clean up water/debris from other surfaces.

The board should be wider than the tile being cut to allow supporting the sections during and after cutting. A quality cutting board is inexpensive and helps improve results when cutting large tiles.

Using tile edge protection

Edge protection strips made of plastic or laminate can be very useful when cutting large format tiles to help prevent chips along the cut edge. The strips adhere to the top and sides of the tile and act as a buffer as the diamond blade cuts through the tile.

Here are some benefits of using protection strips:

• Greatly reduce bottom edge chipping when cutting.
• Allow cutting completely through the tile when needed.
• Help support tile near the cut.
• Low cost and reusable in many cases.
• Easy to apply straight strips on edges.

Edge protection is highly recommended for reducing chipping when making cuts near the edges of large tiles.

Purchasing the right tile saw

Choosing the right wet saw for cutting large tile comes down to a few key considerations:

• Motor power – Look for 1.5 hp or higher motor for cutting porcelain or dense stone.
• Blade size – A 10-inch diamond tile blade is preferred for 24-inch tiles.
• Adjustable fence – Allows aligning tiles for straight cuts.
• Water reservoir – Enough capacity for continual water flow during cutting.
• Bevel ability – For angled cuts to prevent corner chipping.
• Portability – Wheels for moving the saw in/out of workspace.

Also look for stable saw construction, splash guards, and blade guards. Expect to spend $300 – $700 for a quality wet saw suitable for large tiles.

Tile cutting safety tips

Safety should always come first when using tile cutting tools:

• Read and understand tool instructions before use.
• Wear eye protection and hearing protection.
• Ensure adequate ventilation when cutting.
• Prevent water accumulation and electrical hazards.
• Never cut tiles while hand-holding them.
• Keep hands away from the cutting path.
• Make sure the tool is unplugged when changing blades.
• Keep blades sharp and in good condition.

Stay alert, work carefully, and follow safety guidelines provided with your cutting tools to avoid accidents when cutting tile.

Conclusion

Cutting large format tiles takes the right tools and techniques, but beautiful results are achievable with careful planning. Investing in a quality wet saw designed for tile and learning proper cutting methods will allow you to make precise cuts for installing large tiles. Taking it slowly, using edge protection, and handling tiles safely will also minimize chips and cracks. With the right approach, you can get professional-looking cuts on your big tiles.