Different types of ceramic tile cutters, such as shears, strikers, glass cutters, and wet tile saws, are used by tile installers for specific jobs. Shears are ideal for small cuts, strikers for straight lines, and wet tile saws for larger jobs. Consult with hardware store staff for recommendations.
A ceramic tile cutter is one of several devices used to cut or break ceramic tile to fit each tile square to a specific area on a floor, wall, or countertop. Strikers, glass cutters, tile cutters, and shears are all examples of ceramic tile cutters that are used every day by tile installers. Each is ideal for specific types of jobs and circumstances, so the tool you use will depend on the situation.
Tile shears are commonly used for tiles that need to fit in tight areas or be cut into angled shapes. You would use this type of tile cutter when a floor tile needs to fit around fixtures, cabinets or pipes and small cuts need to be made. Shears are used by cutting small pieces of tile at a time into a pre-drawn shape. Only small pieces are cut at a time, to prevent the tile from breaking or crumbling; thus ruining the shape. The edges should then be sanded to smooth them down to the exact shape.
Another type of ceramic tile cutter is the striker. This version uses a wheel with a metal blade to draw a straight line across the tile. After getting the initial score, the tile can be broken in half in a straight line. Common glass cutters can be used in the same way with similar results. This option works best for tiles that will be laid against a wall or other straight area, but need to be smaller than the width of a full tile. This option is ideal for situations where only a few tiles need to be cut.
For larger jobs, a wet tile saw may be the best ceramic tile cutter to use. This option uses a sharp diamond blade to cut tile quickly and efficiently, with water to catch any dust that is created as a result. The tile saw is not only a precision ceramic tile cutter, but also the easiest way to cut tiles in a variety of styles and shapes. Works best when multiple tiles need to be cut at once, whether in straight lines or at angles or other curved shapes.
To find the right tile cutter, talk to the staff at a local hardware or home improvement store to discuss the job ahead and get recommendations on the best tile cutter to use. Most employees at such shops are experienced in various aspects of flooring construction and installation and should be able to give accurate advice or refer to a book or reference with the correct information.
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