Tile Cutting, Finishing and Shaping Tools

They cut ceramic tiles and porcelain stoneware slabs cleanly, drill holes for sockets and drains, bevel edges and shape corners. A clean cut avoids chipping and reduces waste during laying. The choice of tool depends on the job: straight cuts, holes, curves or edge finishing.

Manual scoring tile cutters are suited to straight cuts on medium formats and rely mainly on the operator's precision. Models with a cutting length of 600, 800 or 1200 mm are for large formats and for sites with many cuts. Electric and portable versions help with work at height or with more complex pieces. Choose the cutting length based on the largest format you need to lay.

The cutting wheel is the part that scores the tile surface, so its material affects the cleanliness of the cut and its lifespan. The catalogue includes cutting wheels in tungsten carbide, widia and titanium versions, to be replaced when they lose their edge. Choose the wheel based on the type of tile, such as porcelain stoneware or ceramic, and check compatibility with your cutter model.

For the hole, use a tile drill bit of the required diameter, from 23 to 94 mm in the catalogue, or a diamond core bit. Work at moderate speed with constant pressure and cool the bit with water if the material is hard. If the tile is glossy or very hard, start with a small pilot hole so the edge does not chip.

Squares are used to mark perpendicular lines before cutting, so the piece comes out square. Suction-cup jigs, like those in the collection, help guide the bit or core bit to the right point thanks to calibrated guide holes. Place the jig on a clean, flat surface, check its position before drilling and mark the point with a fine pencil.

Cutting ceramic and porcelain stoneware produces dust and chips, so safety glasses and gloves are needed, plus respiratory protection when dust is heavy. D.Lgs. 81/2008 requires risks, including dust, to be assessed and suitable equipment to be provided. Working in a ventilated area or cutting wet reduces the dust produced.

Clean the rail and the cutting wheel after every use, removing dust and adhesive residue. Check that the wheel is intact and replace it as soon as it loses its edge, because a worn edge causes uneven cuts and chipping. Lubricate moving parts as the manufacturer indicates and keep the tool away from damp.