Which tile cutter to choose: manual or electric
The tile cutter is the most primitive and at the same time necessary tool for working with ceramic tiles and porcelain stoneware. With its help, you can make a cut line with high quality, easily and relatively quickly. What are the criteria for choosing a tile cutter?. let’s dwell on this issue in more detail.
█ Плиткорез Эл. НЕДОСТАТКИ И ПРЕИМУЩЕСТВА /Desktop electric tile cutter
Pros of manual tile cutters:
- Mobility, low weight (up to 9 kg);
- To use the tile cutter, you do not need to take away an entire room or a large table, a small space on the floor is enough;
- Such tools are independent of electricity, economical;
- They can be used in all weather conditions, even in high humidity.
Functionality. Tile cutters can bite off small pieces from the edge, make an incision where the tile is broken by hand, or cut the ceramic completely. Additional attachments are also good: for example, rollers and nippers for curly cuts, circular cutting elements. For household work, a mechanical tile cutter is quite enough, but for large volumes it is recommended to choose an electric one. High-quality models have various options: prevention of crumbling and chipping, micro-regulation of material thickness, measuring rulers. very useful for novice craftsmen.
Material. It is desirable that there are no plastic parts in the mechanism and body of the tile cutter. such products are less resistant to wear and do not guarantee accurate processing. The body of the tool should be made of durable metal, check if the handle is comfortable. it is better to choose rubberized products. The tile cutter should not be small: the optimal length is 35-40 centimeters, otherwise it will be simply inconvenient for you to use it.
The price of the issue. Frankly budget models are good for rare works. If there is not enough money for an electric tile cutter, it is better to choose a high-quality manual one: it should be universal (for both floor and wall tiles). Models with bearings have proven themselves well. they move more smoothly.
The main disadvantage of manual tile cutters is the limitations on the thickness and length of the tiles. It is unlikely that they can process clinker tiles or cut off thin fragments of tiles (chips and breaks are possible). You are unlikely to master a large amount of work with a hand tool, but as a tool for a home craftsman’s piggy bank, this is what you need!
Electric or manual tile cutter?
Manual tile cutter
The manual cutter is used for tiles up to 1.5 centimeters thick. Its construction is as follows:
There are mechanical cutters, roller cutters, and bearing tools.
- Roller. it is the carbide roller that is the cutting element;
- Mechanical. cut the material using a rigid carriage (for tiles of medium thickness);
- Bearing-mounted. these tools are suitable for cutting very durable tiles (up to 1.6 cm thick). Tile cutters have a smooth ride as they have bushings on 2 bearings.
Electric tile cutter
It is characterized by great accuracy and speed, it is the ideal choice for people who carry out large volumes of work with ceramic tiles or porcelain stoneware.
- You can cut the tiles at different angles;
- The cut is clear, even, without rough edges;
- Substantial time savings;
- It is possible to work with both tiles and porcelain stoneware or stone.
What SIZE Tile Cutter is Right for YOU?
Tile cutters can be divided into two types:
- Overhead motor;
- Bottom motor.
Engine underneath. Let’s make a reservation right away: such a device is not suitable for large volumes, but it will do for standard repairs. The device has a small size, it can handle tiles of different thicknesses, but in terms of the quality of work, it is inferior to analogues with an upper motor. To prevent the tiles from cracking from high temperatures, the models are equipped with water cooling (there is a liquid in the tank under the engine, which is supplied to the cutting zone).
Engine on top. The tile cutting disc works in conjunction with a special water pump, so the mowing line is as clear and precise as possible. This tile cutter is suitable for large-scale work.
Disc diameter and power. Professional tile cutters are distinguished by impressive power (up to 2.2 kW); for household work, it is quite possible to choose simpler models (750-150 W). The cutting depth also directly depends on the diameter of the blade. Whereas floor tiles can be cut with most circles, thick slabs or stone can be cut in circles with a diameter of 350 mm or more. Be sure to look at the data sheet of the tile cutter: the parameters of the cutting depth and power are indicated there. Cutter diameter ranges from 18 to 20 centimeters.
Travel speed. Not a fundamental factor, since not every business needs high speed. If the device is purchased for professional use, it should be equipped with a convenient adjustment system. In fact, the speed of 2-3 thousand rpm is quite enough for processing stone and ceramics, but there are also powerful models. from 4000 rpm at idle.
Useful electronics. A good function is overload protection (aka thermal relay), protection against deliberate starting, double insulation, RCDs, waterproof housings, seals. this is protection for the operator from electric shock. However, many cars are classified as class 1 and require grounding.
Machine table. The maximum dimensions of the tiles depend on the dimensions of the bed. Sometimes it is possible to expand the platform with additional hinged covers supported by legs. Stone cutting machines can be up to 1.1 meters in length. The table must be reliable and durable, made of aluminum alloys or steel, equipped with non-slip pads. It will be convenient if the platform is removable.
Cooling. In products with a lower motor, the reservoir is under the table, it must be roomy. It is good if the trough is medium in size so that it can be easily removed from under the machine. In machines with an upper motor, water is supplied to the working area by means of a pump, filters must be installed on it, and nozzles with the ability to adjust are good. Technological channels, protective screens or containers are used to drain water.
Movable units. To cut at an angle, you need to tilt the powertrain or base plate. It’s good if the car has an intermediate fixation. by 22.5 degrees. For the processing to be of high quality, the supporting device must be of high quality: steel bearings, aluminum bridges. Rolling resistance adjustment is encouraged.
The disadvantages of electric tile cutters include increased trauma: whatever one may say, this is a mains-powered tool, so you can and should follow safety precautions. Such equipment must not be operated in a room with high humidity, it must not be overloaded.
As for the manufacturers of electric tile cutters, the brands DeWALT, Bosch, Ridgig, Defort, Kobalt Tools, Tor Machine and others have proven themselves well. Manual tile cutters: Ruby, Bison, Matrix, Raimondi, Stayer, Sigma, Monolit, Supper Pro Battipav and others.
How to choose an electric tile cutter?
The question is relevant if you have planned large-scale slab-cutting work, which is not worth saving. In order not to be mistaken in choosing an electric tile cutter, carefully evaluate its following indicators:
- Engine power. Tools with a power of 800 W and more with a rotation speed of 11 thousand rpm will best cope with large loads without losing cut quality.
- The location of the motor. If the main selection criterion is compactness. then stop your attention on its lower location, if cutting accuracy is more important. you need a tile cutter with an upper motor.
- Corner cutting will make the tool more convenient to use. The easier it is to adjust the angle, the less errors will be in the final result.
- Depth / length of cut. Try to follow the growth rates. the deeper you choose, the less likely you are to buy another tile cutter for a thicker slab. Choose a tool no shorter than 0.5m.
- Select the blade diameter according to the engine power. Which discs fit the model you are interested in, check with the seller or in the instructions.
Tile cutter. Choose the right one
Electric tile cutter
Suitable for professional and home use. With the help of an electric tile cutter, you will get rid of strong dust formation and will be able to work with thick plates of a rigid texture. The mechanism of such a tile cutter is equipped with a blade cooler, which protects against overheating of the tool. An important second plus is the ability to attach a water tank for wet cutting.
Less compact, but more powerful than manual mechanical counterparts. The increased weight and dimensions are fully compensated for by higher power and more efficient performance. The cutting element in such a tile cutter is a diamond disc that can cope with stone, concrete, granite and other hard materials.
- The tile cutter with the bottom motor is convenient and compact. The diamond disc is immersed in a water reservoir here, which protects the mechanism from overheating.
- The cutter with an overhead motor provides maximum precision and precision in the dimensions of the slab, which allows it to be used on a professional level. The diamond blade is cooled by a water pump.
The mobility of such devices depends on the type of power supply: battery or mains electricity.
How to choose a tile cutter
If you are faced with the question of choosing and laying finishing tiles, then most likely you will have to deal with the variety of types of tile cutters, since it is very rare to exclude the process of adjusting the tiles to the desired size and shape. For beginners of a tile cutter, a tip with the types of tile cutters is useful, because this tool is mostly not universal and designed for different sizes, thickness and material of tiles.
Manual tile cutter
It is designed for cutting along a straight mowing line (the cutter runs along the face of the plate), with the help of mechanical action the tile simply breaks along the mowing line of the cut. Some models are equipped with accessories for drilling holes or creating a wavy effect.
Compact, lightweight and low power tool. Ideal for thin slabs (up to 15mm thick). It does not require power supply, so you can use it in the “field” conditions. Cope with ordinary tiles (ceramics), porcelain stoneware and other materials. Before buying a manual tile cutter, be sure to check with the seller for his capabilities, because not every model can cope with the rigid texture of the slab.
- For “jewelry” cutting of thin tiles, the mechanical type is best suited.
- Choose a roller tile cutter for medium thick slabs.
- Bearing tile cutter suitable for slabs 10-15mm thick.
How to choose a manual tile cutter?
Determining the type of tile cutter you want is the first step towards choosing the right tool for you. The second step is to identify a quality tool that will last you hundreds of hours of work without breaking or damaging the stove itself. Therefore, when buying, pay attention to:
- Frame. In order to avoid vibrations that could ruin the tiles, choose a tile cutter with a thick, rigid metal base (bed) and a sturdy handle, which will provide high strength to the overall tool frame.
- Length. Long tile cutter. a versatile tile cutter. Do not forget about this rule if you do not want to face the problem of cutting boards of different sizes. Even if you are currently working with a small area, you should not rely on the help of an angle grinder when cutting large slabs, so choose the length with a margin.
- Additional bearings will ensure smooth running. If you choose a model without them, pre-purchase testing is the best way to test smoothness. To maintain the desired smoothness, the tile cutter without bearings must be regularly lubricated with oil.
- Rigid guides are responsible for the evenness of the cut. If the guides are thin and wobbly, then you should not expect a high-quality cutter line from the tile cutter, so choose thick and stable runners.
- Breaking strength. The higher the separating force of the cutter, the easier it will be to break the slab.
- Cutting method. According to the incision system, there is a division of the method “into oneself” and “from oneself”. Practice has shown that during cutting “towards oneself” the cut is formed faster and more accurately.
- Replacing the cut. Before purchasing a tile cutter, check the availability of spare parts for it. If you choose a rare model, it can be difficult to find a cutting element for it.
Manual tile cutter
The mechanically controlled tile cutters are equipped with a sturdy base, rail guides, presser feet, a sliding carriage with a handle and a cutting roller. The roller may have a different diameter in different models.
Top 5 Best Tile Cutters Review in 2021
The device for manual tile cutting has the following advantages:
Due to the relatively low price, the manual tile cutter is most often chosen for small volumes of work, as well as for non-professional use. A significant disadvantage of the hand-held device is its inability to cut narrow strips of tiles.
When choosing a manual tile cutter, pay attention to its length, strength of materials. Give preference to a model equipped with bearings that provide a smooth movement of the mechanism. Avoid small tile cutters with an awkward handle. these models will not work with thicker and larger tiles.
Manual or electric. which tile cutter to choose?
Working with ceramic tiles involves the use of a number of special tools, of which a tile cutter is a must.
The tile cutter is designed for cutting different types of tiles in order to fit them to the required parameters.
The design of all tile cutters is based on guides, working area, goniometer and the cutting element itself in the form of a steel roller. Depending on the model and principle of operation, the device can be equipped with additional parts.
Before buying a tool, many novice craftsmen have a fair question. which tile cutter to choose, manual or electric? Let’s consider both options in more detail.
Electric tile cutter
Devices operating from the mains are chosen in cases where a large amount of work is to be done.
In addition to power supply, the main structural difference between an electric tile cutter and a manual one is the presence of a cooling system. During cutting, the temperature rises on the working surface of the device, and the tile can simply burst, therefore, during operation, water cooling acts, accompanying the entire line of the cut.
Among the obvious advantages of electric tile cutters, it is important to name the following:
Among the significant disadvantages of the device, it is worth mentioning only its high price, as well as the impossibility of cutting along the curve of the mowing line.
Which to choose: manual or electric tile cutter?
In the process of working with ceramic tiles, situations often arise that require cutting it. However, it is not so easy to cut the tiles exactly, therefore, it is best to do this with the help of a special tool, that is. tile cutter.
The tile cutter, like any other construction tool, has its own varieties. The choice primarily depends on the characteristics of the tile itself. All tile cutters existing today can be divided into two large groups: manual and electric. Let’s analyze the most important features of both groups.
In that case, if we talk about the design of a manual tile cutter, then it is quite primitive. Such a tool is equipped with a titanium or diamond wear-resistant cutting element, a comfortable ruler for a thin and clear cut, a floating base for easy chipping of tiles, a guide that prevents backlash of the cutting part.
It is worth noting that of all Spectra, manual cutters are quite popular. tile cutters, tongs. Outwardly, they are somewhat similar to pliers. With their help, at first, an incision is made carefully on the side of the enamel with a diamond disc, and then the tiles are easily broken off with the help of a tile cutter corner. The cost of such a tool ranges from 120 to 600 hryvnia. It is easy to work with it, no special skills are required.
Manual tile cutters can be used if tiles with a small thickness are to be cut (that is, no thicker than 15 mm). In this case, the tools differ in length. So, for example, a tile cutter with a maximum length of 400 mm is suitable for cutting wall tiles (approx. 8 mm thick).
Some hand-held tile cutters have a circular cutter (ballerina) needed to cut holes of various diameters in tiles. Thus, you can get a hole with a diameter of up to 80 mm.
In the process of choosing a manual tile cutter, you should pay attention to how the tool holder moves along the guides. In the design, plastic rings can be used for this. This is not very good if you need high cutting accuracy. In this case, it is better to use tile cutters in which the tool holder moves on self-lubricating O-rings or bearings.
When working with thick tiles, or for a large amount of work, an electric tool is needed. Electric tile cutters are machines. The main technical indicators of an electric tile cutter include power (from 500 to 2200 W), circle diameter (180-200 mm), maximum cutting depth (30-40 mm), cutting length (up to 500 mm), table dimensions, continuous work (min), weight (from 10 kg). The approximate price range is. from 800 to 8000 hryvnia.
There are two types of electric tile cutters: bottom-mounted and top-mounted (rail-mounted). Bottom cutters cut almost any tile size. In addition, the bottom motor tools are compact and suitable for working in small spaces. Rail cutters are easier to work with and more accurate cutting of tiles.
All tile cutters have a water-cooled diamond blade. When the motor is located at the bottom, the water tank is under the disc, and a small submersible pump is provided in the design of the rail cutters.
Electric tile cutters have the ability to adjust the angle of inclination of the cutting plane relative to the material. So all electric tile cutters can cut tiles at an angle of up to 45 degrees.
Practical question: tile cutter or an angle grinder?
Some users use angle grinders, or “angle grinders”, to cut tiles. There is no denying that this is quite possible. But at the same time: