Tile is a popular and versatile building material used in both home and industrial construction. They are strong, durable and available in many different designs. When processing tiles, however, special care is required in order to achieve an optimal result. In this article, we look at the various reasons why tiles need finishing and introduce the three main tile finishing techniques: cutting tiles, drilling tiles and sanding tiles.
Why tiles need to be processed:
areas of application
Cutting tiles is necessary to get them to the right size and shape to fit perfectly into the desired pattern or design. Typical applications are cutting tiles for corners, recesses or transitions as well as adapting them to irregular wall or floor shapes.
techniques and tools
There are different techniques and tools for cutting tiles:
- Tile cutter: for straight cuts and simple shapes
- Wet cutter: for precise cuts and complex shapes
- Angle grinder with diamond blade for tiles : for cut-outs and adjustments
areas of application
Drilling tiles is necessary to create holes for fasteners, pipes or cables. Typical applications are the attachment of brackets, shelves or mirrors as well as the installation of water and electrical lines.
techniques and tools
There are different techniques and tools for drilling tiles:
- Drill with tile bit: for small holes and less demanding applications
- Impact drill with diamond core bit: for precise and efficient drilling of larger holes
- Rotary hammer with suitable drill bit: for drilling in very hard tiles or natural stone
areas of application
Tile grinding is necessary to smooth surfaces, break edges or remove imperfections. Typical applications are removing burrs, leveling differences or preparing tiles for installation.
techniques and tools
There are different techniques and tools for grinding tiles:
Tile processing in house construction
When installing tile floors, it is important that the tiles are accurately cut and matched to achieve a consistent and pleasing finish. This requires cutting, drilling and sanding tiles to perfectly fit the space and the planned design.
walls and ceilings
Even when covering walls and ceilings with tiles, these must be cut and processed to the right size and shape. Cutting tiles for recesses, drilling holes for attachments and sanding edges play an important role here.
Tile processing in industrial plants
flooring and surfaces
In industrial plants, tile floors are often exposed to high loads and special requirements. Careful processing of the tiles is necessary here to ensure a robust, easy-to-clean and non-slip surface. The cutting, drilling and grinding of tiles also plays a central role here.
facades and cladding
Tile processing is also important in the design of facades and cladding in industrial plants. The main aim here is to adapt the tiles to the respective shape and structure of the building and to attach them securely and permanently.
Safety aspects when processing tiles
When processing tiles, it is important to pay attention to certain safety aspects:
- Wear suitable protective clothing such as gloves, safety goggles and hearing protection.
- Always work with sharp and well-maintained tools to ensure clean cuts and less risk of breakage.
- Secure tiles during processing to prevent slipping or falling.
- Be sure to keep the work area clean and tidy to avoid accidents.
Tips and tricks for tile processing
- Before actually starting work, practice on a practice piece to get a feel for the material and tools.
- Use a ruler or template to ensure accurate cuts and adjustments.
- Cool tiles with water when cutting or drilling to avoid overheating and cracking.
- Work slowly and precisely to avoid mistakes and unnecessary waste of material.
- Be sure to clean and dry the tiles thoroughly before laying to ensure optimal adhesion of the adhesive.
Summary and conclusion
The processing of tiles is an essential step in house and industrial plant construction in order to achieve an attractive and functional end result. The cutting, drilling and grinding of tiles allows them to be adapted to specific requirements, ensuring precise laying and secure attachment. By following safety instructions and applying tips and tricks, tile processing can be carried out efficiently and successfully.
