Large format porcelain tiles pose unique challenges while cutting. The size of the tiles leads to long cuts increasing the chances of vibration or flex while cutting. Porcelain tiles are dense and low quality blades can cause uneven cuts and chipped edges. High quality abrasives and diamond blades are designed specifically for use with porcelain tiles for a smooth, chip-free edge.
Tiles are considered large format if one of their edges is greater than or equal to 15 inches. 24×24, 24×48, 30×30, 30×60 are some of the commonly found sizes in large format tiles. Long, thin panels and slabs are also considered a part of this category. Large format porcelain tiles are used in both residential and commercial settings to enhance both scale and aesthetics. They are commonly used in minimalist designs.
Tools to cut large format porcelain tiles
Diamond blades
Diamond blades are specifically designed to be used with porcelain tiles. They create clean, precise cuts with hardly any chipping and are an indispensable tool in a contractor’s toolkit.
Manual Tile Cutters
Manual tile cutters are ideal for straight cuts. They can be used easily and effectively with porcelain and are designed for large format tiles.
Wet saw
A wet saw is commonly used with a sliding table for cutting large format tiles. It reduces vibrations while cutting and minimizes movement across the tile’s surface. The continuous stream of water from the wet saw keeps the blade cool while cutting and also prevents tile dust from flying around.
Score-And-Snap Cutters For Large Tile
Specialized score and snap cutters are used to handle very long panels and come with precision scoring wheels for ultra-long cuts. They work well on thin porcelain and offer a low-cost, relatively dust-free alternative. These cutters are best for straight, long cuts particularly when the thick thickness allows the option of snapping it without any damage.
Angle Grinders
An angle grinder with a diamond blade can be used to cut large format tiles precisely. Angle grinders provide the flexibility and versatility particularly required for irregular shapes and curves.
Some of the other tools that are useful for cutting large format porcelain tiles are suction cups that allow safe lifting and positioning of large format tiles, cart for transporting large tiles and a tile workbench for scouring and snapping.
Tips and Tricks for contractors
Cutting large format porcelain tiles is a demanding job that needs skill and patience. Here are some techniques for the contractors:
- Understand the strength of the tile
The strength of the tile and the density of the material play an important part in the selection of the cutting tool. For example, in case of ultra dense porcelain with low porosity, a diamond blade is a must. In case of long, thin panels a manual cutter used on a properly supported porcelain panel will give clean, precise cuts.
- Planning the work
Plan the cutting work by marking the cuts clearly. Use graphite pencils or markers to mark the cut and do a dry run before cutting the tile. This gives more precise cuts.
A tape marker can also be used so that the cut is marked precisely and the tile dust stays in place while cutting.
- Preventing chipping and cracking
Chipping and cracking is not uncommon while cutting large format porcelain tiles. In order to prevent chipping and cracking it is necessary to –
- Make a single scouring pass so that the tile surface does not chip.
- Keep the pressure consistent as there may be jagged breaks if inconsistent pressure is applied.
- Support the tiles with suction cups on a stable work bench to keep them from flexing and cracking under their own weight.
- Safety considerations
To stay safe while cutting large format tiles, use proper work gear such as cut-resistant gloves, eye-protection, ear-muffs, a mask for protection from dust and water proof clothing in case of wet grinding.
- Maintenance of blades
Maintain the diamond blade in perfect condition. A dull blade cannot give a precise cut even when the contractor uses the best technique. Routine maintenance keeps the blade in optimum condition and the cuts of the tiles precise.
With the above considerations, contractors will be assured of precise and finished cuts for large format porcelain tiles while staying safe.
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