The main parameters that determine the choice of a tile cutter
When choosing a specific model, the main attention should be paid to the following parameters:
Smooth running
Almost all high-quality tile cutters have special bearings that provide a smooth ride that is essential for work. If your choice fell on a device without bearings, do everything to check it in operation. If this is not possible, brand awareness may be the key to trust in the instrument..
Some additional information to help you understand which tile cutter is better
- The cutter wheel made of hard steel naturally dulls over time. It cannot be sharpened, it can only be replaced;
- an additional advantage is the presence of a rotary ruler in the tool, which allows making cuts at an angle;
- availability of additional settings that take into account the thickness of the material and improve the quality of the cut. However, such settings are present only in devices belonging to the most expensive price categories..
Tool length
To an uninitiated person, it may seem that length does not in any way affect the choice of a manual tile cutter. However, it is not. An overly short tool to save money is not worth buying. Overpaying quite a bit, you can become the owner of a universal tile cutter that can work even with floor tiles..
Top 5 Best Tile Cutters Review in 2020
If you watch enough videos on the Internet on how to choose a manual tile cutter, you will understand that a large-sized tool can open up additional possibilities for you. So, with its help, you can, for example, cut tiles diagonally using the method of its diagonal laying.
STAYER
When deciding which model to choose a manual tile cutter among STAYER products, most buyers prefer the 3310-48 product. They are pushed to such a decision by the multifunctionality of this device and its very affordable price. The length of the cut, like the VIRA brand tool, is about 400 mm, which in most cases is quite enough. In addition, the 3310-48 tile cutter can handle tiles that can be up to 16 mm thick..
However, when deciding which tile cutter to choose for your home and leaning towards a product of the STAYER brand, you should know that there are significant complaints about them, expressed by their owners. The main disadvantages noticed are:
- play in the cutting roller;
- insufficient structural rigidity.
The flaws noticed by customers can cause a significant deviation from the applied markings during cutting, which ultimately results in defects and additional costs for users. For this reason, when buying a STAYER tile cutter, the final choice should be made only after performing a test cut, which allows you to identify possible factory imperfections..
Best tile cutter: brand rating
This brand is Spanish, but most of the tools of this brand are produced by factories in China. The most famous and respected models of this brand include STAR-60-N – a professional manual tile cutter. Specialists especially appreciate the high quality of workmanship that is characteristic of this instrument. Its inherent excellent structural rigidity – both of the guides and the base – allows you to perform a perfectly smooth cut made by the cutting attachment strictly along the mowing line marking.
The tool has a length of 610 mm and is able to work with both porcelain stoneware and tiles 430 × 430 mm.
The only parameter of this tile cutter that can be attributed to its disadvantages is its relatively high price. However, this does not frighten the masters professionally engaged in tile laying, since having this tool and having good experience, they are always able to perform guaranteed high-quality work..
As you know, the ZUBR brand is a popular Russian brand, under which a large number of various construction tools are produced. EXPERT 33195-60 enjoys the greatest respect among the tile cutters produced under this brand. This device is capable of accurately cutting tiles of various hardness up to porcelain stoneware. The limiting parameters of the products processed by him are:
- width – 600 mm;
- thickness – 30 mm.
The mechanism, which is resistant to physical influences, weighing 5 kg, has a very hard cutting roller in its composition, capable of maintaining its working qualities for quite a long time. With all due respect to the merits of this tile cutter, experts recommend that when purchasing it, make sure that there is no roller play, which can adversely affect the quality of the cuts it makes..
The VIRA brand has existed on the Russian market since 2004. During this period, he managed to enlist a large number of fans and regular customers. Buyers appreciate in the products manufactured under this brand, a very good balance between its quality and the price set for it..
The above fully applies to tools such as VIRA tile cutters. Thinking about which tile cutter is better to choose, many craftsmen give preference to tools of this particular brand. Fortunately, for home craftsmen, VIRA offers quite a sufficient choice: using products manufactured by this manufacturer, you can cut tiles of 300 and 400 mm in size..
How to choose the right manual tile cutter
Ceramic tiles have now become one of the main finishing materials. And this is quite understandable and understandable: she has a huge number of advantages.
However, in order to correctly and efficiently lay the tiles, the master must have the necessary tools and devices at hand. These tools undoubtedly include a tile cutter, the abundance of models of which sometimes plunges users into the deepest confusion. Which tile cutter to choose, how to choose a tile cutter – these are the questions asked by almost everyone who decided to start laying tiles.
Our today’s article will help you find answers to these questions, in which we intend to talk about both the parameters for choosing tile cutters and about the main models and brands that are of quite reasonable interest..
Rubi Star-61
The model has rightfully won the title of a good budget manual tile cutter, as even professionals use it. The cutter will easily cut mosaics, porcelain stoneware, ordinary tiles. Cutting rolls of different diameters can be used. The basis is shock-absorbing. Maximum thickness of the processed material – 11 mm.
The tile cutter is simple in design, easy to use
Platform length
When choosing a manual tile cutter, this parameter is paid attention first of all. The length of the bed determines what size the tiles can be cut. It is optimal not to save money, but to purchase a long tool. It can be used to cut small wall tiles and large floor tiles..
RUBI TP-66-S
Convenient and multifunctional hand tool. The manufacturer has provided an accurate ruler to help you take measurements. If necessary, it can be easily removed by unscrewing the clamping screw mechanism.
Ideally high-quality cut is considered a plus, but for a good tool you will have to pay a decent bag
DIAM ProLine 1200
The hand tool will cope with ordinary tiles and porcelain stoneware up to 16 mm thick. The platform allows cutting up to 1200 mm in length. The carriage moves smoothly on ball bearings.
Tile cutter weight no more than 13.5 kg
Cutter
The cutting element of the manual tile cutter is a roller. It is made of carbide steel. It dulls over time. You cannot sharpen the video. As they wear out, they just change it.
STAYER 3310-48
The brand is registered in Germany, but the assembly is carried out by the Chinese. The tool allows cutting with a length of 420 mm. The maximum permissible tile thickness is 16 mm. The presence of a ballerina is considered a plus. The device allows you to cut circles in the tile with a diameter of 30 to 80 mm.
The working platform is equipped with a rubberized coating, a ruler
Smooth movement of the carriage
Manual models come with and without bearings. The first tool features a smooth carriage ride. The cut is smooth without gaps and double lines. The absence of bearings will impair the smooth running. However, many owners buy such tile cutters because of the budget cost. You can check it only at work. To do this, cut a couple of tiles. The carriage should slide well along the guides, and the workpiece should break exactly along the mowing line of the cut.
RUBI STAR-60-N
One of the best manual tile cutters belongs to a Spanish brand, but the production is similarly established in China. A strong, rigid bed is a plus. You can cut 610 mm at a time. The set includes interchangeable victorious cutting attachments. The bed allows you to cut workpieces measuring 430×430 mm diagonally.
The cutter will cope with tiles or porcelain stoneware up to 10 mm thick
Electric tile cutter device
In addition to the manual tile cutter, electric models of this tool with water supply to a diamond disc are also widely used. By its design, the electric tile cutter is distinguished by the fact that it is equipped with an electric drive under the working platform, on which a diamond wheel is mounted for cutting tiles..
Also, some modern models of electric tile cutters are equipped with additional functions. For example, the swivel mechanism allows tiles to be cut at an angle of 45 degrees, and the installed water reservoir under the cutting disc ensures minimal dust formation during operation. Also, tile cutters of an electrical device can be equipped with markings, thanks to which you can measure the required tile area directly on the platform.
Electric tile cutters can be divided into two main groups:
- Tile cutter with fixed cutting disc. In this case, the work on cutting the tiles will have to be done by hand, which is the main drawback. The tiles must be moved independently under the cutting disc. One wrong move and you can harm yourself;
- Tile cutter with moving disc. More accurate and safer tool. In this design, the mechanism with the disc moves itself along the specified mowing line..
The algorithm for working with an electric tile cutter is not at all complicated and looks like this:
- Draw the cut line on the tile;
- Place the tiles on the platform parallel to the guide;
- Turn on the device: this activates the electric drive and starts the water supply system from the tank;
- Place the tile under the cutting disc and let it carefully cut the tiles. This stage requires increased attention. If you do not follow the process, you can not only cut the tiles crookedly, but also damage your health;
- After performing the cut, the device must be turned off.
Please note that the tiles must be cut on a perfectly clean platform, without residues of the material that was cut in the previous time. In this case, the tile must be pressed against the bed as much as possible. If this is not done, strong vibration will occur, and the tile may simply be torn out by a disc..
It is also necessary to regularly change the water in the sump, in order to avoid getting particles of the material back onto the tile. It is important to wear protective goggles when working with an electric tile cutter.
Before starting work, always check that the tool is in good working order: the diamond disc must be clean and level, not deviate from the surface of the tile cutter. In case the disc is damaged or bent, it must be replaced.
How a manual tile cutter works
This type of tile cutter is suitable for a small amount of work, therefore, it is the manual tile cutter that is most popular among consumers. Its device consists of:
- The platform on which the tiles should be located;
- The carriage, which is located above the roller;
- Cutting roller, which cuts the tiles;
- A handle that presses the tile to the platform;
- Guide rails along which the cutting roller moves;
- Supports for guides;
- Tile breaking feet.
The principle of operation of a manual tile cutter is similar to that of a glass cutter. The cutting roller cuts the glaze as it passes over the tile surface. A special foot under the roller breaks the tiles in half, resulting in a smooth cut. The manual cutter is used to work with tiles up to 15 mm thick.
When laying tiles, there are times when it is necessary to use tile elements of a non-standard shape, for example, a circle – for facing outlets or laying pipes. For this, a manual tile cutter “with a ballerina” is used. At the heart of such a device is a circular cutter. The diameter of the future round piece of tile can be adjusted..
By the type of their design, manual tile cutters are:
-
Roller. As the name implies, the tile is cut by a special roller, which is made of hard metal alloys, due to which it has a long service life;
In operation, the manual tile cutter is quite simple, so it is used by both experienced craftsmen and people who make repairs on their own. The whole process of working with a manual tile cutter consists of the following stages:
- It is necessary to check the condition of the tool: whether it is in good order, whether the roller is blunt, whether all the elements of the device are in proper condition;
- Mark the tiles with a pencil;
- Place the tile on the platform of the manual cutter, with the marked line aligned with the cutter wheel. Please note that the distance between the cut and the edge of the tile should not be less than 1 cm. Otherwise, the cut may turn out to be uneven and sloppy;
- By pulling the handle, one notch of the roller is made. Do not put too much pressure on it, otherwise the tile may crack. The effort with which the roller makes an incision in the glaze is enough;
- After that, the handle is pressed and the tile breaks into two parts.
In order to make the material easier to cut, it is allowed to wet the tiles with water. You can learn more about how to lay tiles by watching the video. Learn more about how to drill tiles.
What to look for when buying
When choosing a manual tile cutter, pay attention to the following characteristics:
- Frame strength. The cutting platform must be made of metal and of good thickness. If the bed looks fragile, then the tile cutter may not be enough for even a small amount of work;
- Instrument length. If there is a choice between short and long tools, choose the second option. With the help of such a tile cutter, it will always be possible to process not only in length but also diagonally;
- Smooth running. Before purchasing a tool, check that it runs smoothly. It is desirable that its design contains bearings that will provide softness in the operation of the device..
The cutting roller of a manual tile cutter will grind and dull over time. It cannot be sharpened, so if you have this problem, you will have to purchase a new roller element.
Lubricate regularly during operation, this will prolong the service life of the tool..
Features of choosing a tile cutter for porcelain stoneware
When it comes to self-lining walls or floors with tiles, the question becomes about the need to use a tool that quickly and evenly cuts the tiles. The tile cutter helps to divide the tiles into several parts, as well as cut out the shapes that are necessary for laying. The features of choosing a tile cutter for cutting porcelain stoneware are different from cutting ceramic tiles.
Features of cutting porcelain stoneware tiles
Porcelain stoneware is a fairly strong and durable facing material. Because of this, consumers often choose it for laying on the floor surface. To cut porcelain stoneware, you need to use a wet-cut electric tile cutter.
You can also cut porcelain stoneware by hand, but this is very difficult, especially for small elements. But with an electric tile cutter, porcelain stoneware tiles. Both of these tools will do the job well, but there are some nuances in their work:
- a manual tile cutter will not allow you to cut off porcelain stoneware with a width of less than 3-7 cm. In this regard, the edges of the cut tile material will have to be additionally processed by grinding;
- the tile often breaks not along the mowing line;
- it is unrealistic to cut diagonally;
- cannot be used when avoiding obstacles.
An electric tile cutter will do the job better, but don’t forget about changing the water in the tank..
The main advantage of water-based tile cutters is that there is no dust when cutting tiles. It helps a lot when renovating an apartment..
This method of cutting porcelain stoneware is more advantageous for its accuracy and speed. It will also allow you to cut the facing material at the desired angle, while not applying much effort..
Additional tools for cutting tiles
In addition to tile cutters, other tools can also be used to work with tile material. The main tools for cutting tiles can be considered:
- Glass cutter. Such a tool is suitable when there is no desire to purchase expensive equipment, but it is still necessary to cut several tiles. When working with a glass cutter, the tile should be briefly moistened in water to make it easier to cut. Next, mark the line with a pencil, and pressing the ruler to the tile, make a clear cut along the mowing line. Then you should knock a little along the entire cut and bring the tile to the edge of the table. Next, you need to break the tile with a sharp movement and it will split into two parts, but this method will not work with porcelain tiles;
- Angle Grinder. Using an angle grinder is equivalent to using an electric tile cutter, only taking into account the absence of a water reservoir. The angle grinder cuts any tile clearly and quickly. The main disadvantage of this tool is that it creates a lot of dust. To cut porcelain stoneware tiles, you need to select a special diamond blade for dry cutting;
- Jigsaw. To use a jigsaw, you need a special tile file. The jigsaw will allow you to cut the required tile shapes. It is not suitable for cutting porcelain stoneware, but it does well with ceramic tiles, although the glaze colites..
Output. The manual tile cutter is the most economical tool for cutting tiles, but if you are serious about it, we recommend purchasing an electric model. Even inexpensive models from 3000 rubles. will be better than an angle grinder. It is quite simple to master its work, and such a device will always be necessary if you need to make small repairs in the apartment to replace the tiles. It will be interesting to know how to carry out repairs less costly..
Manual cutter 600mm MTX 876259
Support foot and separation mechanism.
It is the lowest element of the cutting unit and is pivotally attached to it on the axis. It is mobile and, when scratching, does not press on the material, but slides after the roller.
Consists of two separated plates (with elastic pads glued to the ends), made at an angle to the plane of the base (touching occurs on the outer sections). This configuration sets the symmetrical fracture pressure at some distance from the passage of the axial edge of the frame..
On cheap manual cutters, it can cling to the surface when the cutting unit is pulled back and rest against the inside of the roller, causing it to become dull. In addition, the breakdown of one of the two parts of the separator, due to the small thickness and lack of reinforcement, is a common cause of repair..
At the end of the cut, the handle is raised, the foot is lowered, the roller goes into the deepening of its central part and when pressed, the tile breaks from the edge.
Manual tile cutter with bearings 750mm Intertool HT-0383
Base.
The supporting part of the manual roller tile cutter is used for positioning workpieces on it and fixing other elements and assemblies.
Manufactured from:
– stamped painted carbon steel (cheap budget wall tile models);
– thick-walled composite waterproof plywood (for example, on Wolfcraft TC610w);
– aluminum alloys (profile or cast).
Tools with an aluminum frame are the most popular: thick stiffeners provide the necessary strength, and the low weight of the light alloy allows it to be transported around the object.
A rigid separating rib (convex profile 4-5 mm thick with a semicircular apex) runs along the longitudinal axis of the rail tile cutter. To the left and to the right of it, across the entire width, pads of soft porous rubber with a slightly embossed surface are glued. Their height is the same or slightly below the fault edge. When laying the material to be cut on the mat, the rubber springs and stabilizes the position.
On professional models, the surface in contact with ceramics, for better wear resistance, is made of aluminum sheets, and the shock-absorbing effect is achieved by installing springs between them and the base.
Reinforced manual tile cutter 500mm with cast bed MTX 87607
Manual cutter rail 280mm Vorel 02300
Tile cutter manual rail professional Yato YT-3706 500mm
DIAM ProLine 1200
The hand tool will cope with ordinary tiles and porcelain stoneware up to 16 mm thick. The platform allows cutting up to 1200 mm in length. The carriage moves smoothly on ball bearings.
Tile cutter weight no more than 13.5 kg
Which is the best manual tile cutter for porcelain stoneware
Ordinary tiles are not particularly durable. It can be cut even with a cheap tile cutter. The situation is more complicated with porcelain stoneware. Not every hand tool does the job here. It is optimal to start viewing the rating of manual tile cutters for porcelain stoneware and choose this particular model. The tool may come in handy in the future, and he will easily cut the tile in any case.
How to choose a manual tile cutter
When a person understands the characteristics of a tile cutter, it is easier for him to choose a tool for performing specific tasks. Manual models are distinguished by a simple device. They consist of a frame on which the guide elements are securely fixed. A carriage with a cutter moves along them.
Best Tile Cutter for Any Type of Tile (Montolit Masterpiuma)
All manual cutters share the same basic structure
Stanina
The element is a metal platform on which the working units are fixed. It must be reliable, not vibrate. The rigidity of the bed is the first sign of good tool quality. If the substrate vibrates during cutting, the tile will crack..
Cutter
The cutting element of the manual tile cutter is a roller. It is made of carbide steel. It dulls over time. You cannot sharpen the video. As they wear out, they just change it.
NUOVA BATTIPAV SUPER PRO 900
The cutter can handle tiles, ceramics, porcelain stoneware and decorative stones. The cut can be made straight and at an angle. The maximum length is 900 mm. Depending on the material, workpieces with a thickness of 5 to 19 mm can be cut. A design feature is the presence of 9 bearings in the carriage. Of these, 4 pieces are adjustable to improve the smoothness of the ride..
The brand belongs to an Italian company
NUOVA BATTIPAV SUPER PRO 600
Another representative of the Italian brand with 9 bearings in the bottom bracket. Due to the reduced platform length, the maximum cutting length is 600 mm. A roller with a diameter of 22 mm was used as a cutter. The tile cutter will cope with workpieces with a thickness of 5 to 19 mm.
The disadvantage of the model is the inconvenient handle on the lever
RUBI TP-66-S
Convenient and multifunctional hand tool. The manufacturer has provided an accurate ruler to help you take measurements. If necessary, it can be easily removed by unscrewing the clamping screw mechanism.
Ideally high-quality cut is considered a plus, but for a good tool you will have to pay a decent bag