Cutting ceramics: ceramic tiles and ceramic plates

Master the cutting of ceramics: practical tips and tools for DIY

Difficulty: Easy | Costs: from €14.90 | Workload: 5 minutes per tile

Ceramic is a material that is used in many areas due to its hardness and durability.

Whether in the:

• Kitchen
• in the bathroom
• or in the living area

Ceramic tiles and ceramic plates are a popular design element.

But how do you cut ceramics correctly?

In this article we will show you how to cut ceramics and which tools are best suited for this.

1. Why cut ceramics?

When laying ceramic tiles or creating ceramic objects, there is often a point where the material needs to be cut.

Sometimes tiles need to be adjusted to the size of the room or specific shapes are required to be cut out of a ceramic slab.

• Miter cut ceramic tiles
• Cut ceramic tile recess

Precise cutting is important here in order to achieve a clean result.

2. Tools for cutting ceramics

In our experience: Choosing the right tool is crucial for success when cutting ceramics.

2.1 Tile cutter

A tile cutter is the most commonly used tool for cutting ceramics.

It consists of a rail on which the tile is clamped and a hard metal cutting wheel.

The cutting wheel is used to create a predetermined breaking point at which the tile is then broken. Tile cutters are available in different sizes and are particularly suitable for straight cuts.

2.2 Glass Cutter

The glass cutter is a simple tool that is also suitable for cutting thin ceramic plates.

With its sharp cutting edge, a predetermined breaking point is created on the surface of the ceramic, which is then separated by carefully breaking along the line. and thicker ceramic plates, however, the glass cutter is not ideal.

2.3 Cutting ceramics with the angle grinder

Our Opinion: The angle grinder is a versatile and powerful tool for cutting ceramics.

With a suitable tile cutting disc, you can also cut thicker ceramic tiles and create precise shapes and curves. However, using an angle grinder requires some practice and skill.

In this guide we have worked up everything to do with the subject of flexing tiles .

3. Cut Ceramic Countertop: Expert work for precise results

Cutting ceramic countertops is a more demanding job that should normally be carried out by a professional.

Ceramic worktops are not only thicker and heavier than tiles, they also require particularly precise finishing to achieve a clean and perfectly fitting result.

In our experience, the best way to cut ceramic worktops is to use a wet-cutting table saw. This special type of table saw is designed to precisely cut even particularly hard materials such as ceramics. The wet cutting function ensures continuous cooling and lubrication of the cutting edge, which reduces the risk of cracking or damaging the material.

For best results when cutting ceramic worktops, the following steps should be followed:

1. Preparation: Make sure the countertop is clean, dry and on a stable surface. Carefully mark the desired cutting lines on the countertop surface.
   
   
2. Setting up the table saw: Set up the table saw according to the manufacturer's instructions and choose an appropriate cutting disc for cutting ceramics. Also make sure that the wet cutting function is activated.
   
   
3. Cutting: Gently and evenly guide the ceramic countertop through the table saw for a precise and clean cut.
   
   
4. Finishing: Remove any burrs or sharp edges with a whetstone or sandpaper.

Since cutting ceramic countertops requires high precision and the material is expensive and delicate, we recommend leaving this task to a professional.

They have the necessary experience, the right tools and the necessary care to achieve optimal results.

3.1 Cutting ceramic tiles with the angle grinder

Cutting ceramics with the Flex is not difficult. The most common applications when cutting ceramics are:

• Miter cut ceramic tiles
• Cut recess in tiles
• Cut ceramic tiles that have already been laid on the wall

Step 1 Transfer the desired dimensions to the ceramic tile

Take the desired cutting dimensions from your tile laying plan. Mark the tile hole, tile cut or tile recess on the ceramic tile.

Step 2 Place ceramic tile stably

When cutting ceramics with the angle grinder, it is particularly important to choose a base that you do not cut into or the base generates vibrations.

Step 3 ceramic tile cutting

When cutting ceramics, it is particularly important to make the first cut in the edge area. Make the first cut and carefully increase the speed. Cut along the marked cutting lines.

Step 4 Check cut edges

After cutting, the cut edges must be checked for flaking. Try beautifying the cut with a tile sanding pad. In an emergency, you can simply cut a new ceramic tile.

4. Conclusion - Cutting ceramics is not difficult if you prepare for it.

In order to successfully cut ceramics, it is important to choose the right tool and work carefully.

With a little practice and the right tools, cutting ceramics is not rocket science and can also be successfully mastered by do-it-yourselfers.

Here are some additional tips for cutting ceramics:

5. Tips for successfully cutting ceramics

In our experience: good preparation is crucial for successful cutting of ceramics.

1. Planning and Marking: Before you start cutting, you should plan exactly how the tile or slab will be cut. Carefully mark the cutting lines with a pencil or felt-tip pen to guide you when cutting.

2. Stabilization: In order to enable precise cutting, it is important that the ceramic does not wobble during the cutting process. Fix the tile or slab on a solid and level surface to avoid slipping or tilting.

3. Protective measures: Sharp edges and splinters can occur when cutting ceramics. Always wear suitable protective equipment such as gloves and safety goggles.

4. Clean breaking: After you have created the predetermined breaking point, it is important to break the material clean. Use pliers or a tile hammer, for example, to carefully divide the ceramic along the cutting line.

5. Post -processing: To remove any sharp edges or burrs, you can rework the cut edges with a whetstone or a diamond grinding pad .

Our experience: With the right tools, a little practice and the tips mentioned, you can also cut ceramics in the do-it-yourself sector. However, depending on the application and the desired precision, it can also make sense to have the cutting of ceramics carried out by a specialist.