How to use a manual tile cutter

Cosmetic repairs are often associated with laying ceramics. It is used for wall and floor cladding in a bathroom, kitchen or restroom. When laying tiles, you need to use a special tool. Such a device is called a manual tile cutter - a simple and convenient device for processing ceramics.

To qualitatively tile the surface, you need to be able to use a manual tile cutter. During operation, there is always a need to cut ceramics into fragments of a suitable size. This article will help you learn how to use the manual tile cutter correctly.

What is a manual tile cutter: advantages and disadvantages

The principle of operation of this device resembles the operation of a conventional glass cutter. Using a roller cutter, a shallow groove is made on the surface of the tile. And then they press with a foot, breaking the tile along the cut line.

Advantages of the manual tile cutter:

• independent of electricity;
• cuts tiles up to 20 mm thick;
• does not require special storage conditions or special premises;
• applicable in all weather conditions when it is wet or dry, cold or hot;
• It is small in size, allowing you to conveniently place it on a table or on the floor;
• It has low weight, due to which it is easy to transfer from one place to another.

Disadvantages of a manual tile cutter:

• not suitable for processing particularly durable types of tiles;
• will not cope with a large volume of tiles;
• does not cut tile strips of 5-10 mm.

How to choose a manual tile cutter

It is recommended to buy a tile first, and then a tile cutter. When choosing a tool, pay attention to its quality and functionality. Correctly selected tile cutter will provide the convenience of cutting tiles. When purchasing this device, consider the following characteristics:

1. Reliability. A weak frame will not cope with a large amount of work. Carefully inspect the structure - it should have a sufficient metal thickness. The duration of the entire tool depends on the build quality.
2. Rigidity of a bed. Poor platform cushioning when passing the cutter. Due to strong vibration, the tile breaks crookedly. To avoid this, choose a tile cutter with a rigid base.
3. Tool length The size of the tile cutter depends on the size of the tile used. The larger the ceramic, the longer the tool is needed. For example, for cutting a standard tile (30x30) - a tile cutter of 500 mm is suitable. If the ceramics are larger (50x50), you need a tool with a cut length of 900 mm.
4. Ride. Many tile cutters are equipped with bearings that improve smoothness. Check it out better in practice. Before buying, cut several tiles to ensure the quality of the tool.
5. Handle length. Pay attention to the handle - the degree of applied force depends on the size. The longer the handle, the easier it is to press the cutter with more force, this is important when cutting porcelain stoneware.

How is a manual tile cutter

Manual tile cutters may have differences regarding functionality, but the general arrangement is the same for everyone. These simple tools consist of the following parts:

• foot breaking tile;
• guide support;
• cutting roller;
• guides;
• lever;
• bed;
• carriage.

The bed has a long, flat shape. At its ends are mounted supports connected by two guide rails. They are designed to guide the carriage moved by a long handle. The carriage has a cutting wheel and a concave foot that breaks the tile.

Professional manual tile cutters are equipped with a protractor scale and a rotary ruler, helping to cut tiles diagonally. On some models, an additional ballerina is installed - a device for cutting round holes.

The guides and the handle take over the entire load, so they must be made of durable steel - you should pay attention to this when choosing. The cutting roller becomes dull over time, becoming unusable. It is not subject to restoration, but changes to a new one.

How to prepare a tool for work

1. Inspect tool for damage;
2. Clean the surface of the platform and guides from dirt;
3. Check the smooth movement of the carriage along the rails, lubricate the guides with machine oil;
4. Inspect the cutting roller - it should be flat, without damage and rotate freely. If there are defects, replace the cutter with a new one.

How to cut tiles with a manual tile cutter

Before starting work, soak the tile in warm water to make it softer. This will prevent the appearance of cracks, and reduce the amount of marriage. For better cutting, use machine oil. It must be dripped onto the roller or onto the marking line as a result of which friction is reduced. Cut the tile smoothly and without jerking - in one pass and no more.

Instruction:

1. Mark the tiles using the marker;
2. Fix the ceramics on the bed with clamps so that the line is under the cutting wheel. For this, there is a center mark on the platform, according to which it is convenient to adjust the position of the material;
3. Set the cutter at the beginning of the split line, slightly pressing it down;
4. Slide the carriage with the roller along the front of the tile, making a groove in the top layer. Cut only in one direction - away from you and along the marking line.
5. Lift the handle and set the foot in the middle of the cut. Then, using gentle pressure or a sharp blow, break the tile into two parts.

Manual tile cutter will be an excellent assistant in the laying of ceramic tiles. Even a beginner tiler can use the tool. Using this tool, you will be able to perform high-quality cutting of most types of ceramics. The result will surely please you with beautifully laid tiles and an even seam.

Video: how to use a tile cutter