How to Cut Large Format Ceramic Tiles: Important Steps and Tools to Use

Over the past decade, large-format tiles have become increasingly popular in commercial and residential applications. Manufacturers have spent some time developing and testing large tiles; experimenting with various materials to find the most practical and aesthetically pleasing option for their customers. Today, there are thick and thin large format tiles that are reliable, durable, and suitable for a variety of applications. When working with these tiles, especially the larger ones, proper handling is critical to the safe and quality use of the material. Here's what you need to know about the challenges of cutting large format tiles, and we've got some helpful tips on how to cut large format tiles correctly.

Perhaps the most common challenge when working with large format tiles is handling. These tiles are difficult to carry and transport without the proper tools and equipment. Tiles may be too long, thick, or heavy to carry on their own.

Another major challenge with large format tiles is that they are extremely complex to cut, especially if you want clean edges without any splinters. Although the material of tiles may be durable, the large surface area of tiles makes them very fragile when used, especially without the correct techniques and equipment.

When working with large format tiles, excessive length of material may make it difficult to drill clean round holes without cracking or splitting the tile during processing. It is more difficult to make square holes before laying tiles because cracks may begin to form in the corners when the tiles are slightly twisted or moved during installation.

The demand for large format tiles for residential and commercial applications has led to the development of specialized equipment designed to handle and cut large format tiles for installation. Here is a list of essential tools for cutting large format tiles.

List of Tools Required for Large Format Tile Cutting System

When working with large format tiles, it is essential to use the correct products for cutting, drilling, and processing. From carts and lifts to workbenches and suction cups, there are many tools that can help you work efficiently without damaging your tiles or injuring yourself. Since TILER is one of the most popular and trusted tile tool manufacturers in the Chinese market, here is a list of some tools compiled by our tile tool experts to help you complete your tile projects.

Tile Cutter: Use a manual tile cutter to score lines on the surface of the tile and then break along the lines. This tool is suitable for straight cuts.

Wet Saw: A wet saw is a power saw with a diamond-coated blade that cuts tile by spraying water on the blade to keep it cool and dust-free. It is versatile and can perform both straight and curved cuts.

Tile Pliers: Tile pliers are hand-held tools with two jaws that can be used to make small, irregular cuts or trim the edges of tiles.

Tile Scorer: This tool is used to create straight scratches on the surface of the tile before destroying it. It is often used in conjunction with a tile cutter for more precise cuts.

Angle Grinder with Tile Blade: An angle grinder with a specialized tile cutting blade can be used to make straight and curved cuts on tiles.

Tile Hole Saw: A tile hole saw is essential when you need to drill holes in tile for pipes or fixtures. It comes in various sizes and attaches to the drill bit.

Diamond Hole Saw Kit: This kit includes a range of diamond-coated hole saws in different sizes for drilling holes in tiles of various diameters.

Tile File or Sandpaper: After cutting, you may need a tile file or sandpaper to smooth the edges and remove any rough spots.

Safety Equipment: Safety glasses, ear protection, and dust masks are essential for your safety, especially when using power tools.

Workbench: A sturdy workbench or cutting surface can help support your tiles while cutting and ensure accuracy.

Measuring and Marking Tools: A tape measure, ruler, and pencil are necessary to accurately mark and measure cuts.

Safety Gloves: Wear gloves to protect your hands when handling tiles, especially if the tiles have sharp edges.

Cutting large format tiles is not complicated but still requires proper management. With the proper guidance and equipment, you can install large-format tiles to cover floors and walls in a custom and smart way. Here are the basic steps for installing large format tile.

Handling: Due to their large size and limited thickness, large format tiles require care when handling them. Suction cups with pressure gauges are very effective for the simple and safe handling of these boards.

Cutting: When the slab is carefully transported from the forklift to the workbench, it is ready for cutting. A helpful tip is to pre-cut the slab along the entire length with a diamond blade, then adjust the pliers to separate the parts, cutting away evenly in small sections.

Drilling: Once the base is secured under the large format tile, use a screen gun with a diamond drill bit to drill the holes. The surface is smoothed and sanded after drilling to ensure an optimal surface finish and prevent the risk of cracks and defects.

Laying: To lay large slabs, prepare a cement-based adhesive. It should be applied to the back of the board and the bed where it will be placed. Use a trowel to spread it out until it evenly covers the surface, then place leveling shims to lower the board.

If you enjoyed learning about these TILER large format tile-cutting tools, we have more information on professional tile equipment on our website. Feel free to contact us to learn more about tile tools or to order tile tools.

As a professional custom tile tool manufacturer, TILER is committed to providing installers with accurate, efficient, innovative, and professional tile-cutting and laying tools. Our six product categories cover all the necessary tools for tile decoration, including tile cutters, large format panel systems, tile handling and laying tools, tile leveling tools, grouting and cleaning tools, and other tile tools.

Since the invention of the first tile-cutting machine, we've been providing a range of innovative solutions for home renovation and improvement projects. With more than 28 years of experience, patented technology, and unrivaled production capabilities, TILER has become an industry leader, serving customers in more than 130 countries.