Tile is one of the most sought-after finishing materials. It is used in the device of floor and wall coverings both on the street and indoors. Each veneer knows how inconvenient the tile is to process. Qualitatively perform cutting even of thin elements will allow only a special tool. The most acceptable solution to this problem is a manual tile cutter. How to choose the best model for this assistant? A wide range of technical and operational parameters should be taken into account, also focusing on individual features of specific models.
What to consider in the design
Hand cutters have a fairly simple device, but there are discrepancies in the technical configuration, which should be considered initially. For example, for direct cutting it is desirable to prefer a desktop large-format model. With high probability, it can be assumed that it will be deprived of auxiliary functions, but it will make it possible to cope effectively with a direct cut of thick workpieces. How to choose a manual tile cutter for ceramic tiles with a thin and sensitive structure? The tool must ensure a smooth running of the cutting roller. For such purposes, small-sized cutters with a roller movable on rolling bearings are suitable. Much will depend on the technique of cutting directly by the user, therefore, attention is paid to the characteristics of the handle. It is advisable to select a tool with a long thrust handle, complemented by a device for easily breaking tiles along a given contour.
Choice of Key Performance
A more detailed analysis of the target parameters of tile cutting should answer the question of what sizes the tool can work with. The main are two characteristics - the thickness and length of the element. As for the first parameter, there are models operating in the ranges from 6 to 15 mm. In order to improve the quality of the cut, universal modifications with adjustable settings according to the cutting thickness should be avoided. How to choose a manual tile cutter along the length of the workpiece? This time, the parameters and configuration of the location of the guides are taken into account. Their maximum reach with fixation on the stops and will determine which tile can be installed for subsequent cutting. For example, budget models for small-format tiles allow you to place elements up to 300 mm long, and professional equipment works with 600 mm blanks.
Additional functionality
One of the most popular optional inclusions in the design of the tile cutter can be called a ballerina. This is a tool for creating holes in the tile directly on the base of the main machine. The ballerina is a circular cutter that is integrated into the design of the tile cutter. Its average diameter is 3-8 cm. There are also devices thanks to which the accuracy and quality of the cut is improved, in general. For example, how to choose a manual tile cutter so that even cutting is possible even at high loads? Such requests correspond to models with a reinforced frame. This design provides an additional effect of fixing the working bed, minimizing accidental deviations and vibrations. Facilitate the workflow and the integrated ruler-square. It will allow you to mark along the contours of the future cut immediately after fixing the tile. Accordingly, additional manipulations are excluded, in which there is a risk of failure of the notch.
How to choose a manual tile cutter for porcelain tile
This is the most complex tile material in terms of processing. When choosing a tool, you need to focus on the design with a cast fortified platform, its massiveness and wide ranges of cutting parameters. The presence of a powerful support base will help in the work. Special requirements are also imposed on the cutting roller of a manual tile cutter. Which is better to choose? More effective will be models with a tungsten carbide cutter. The mechanical impact in this case will be more stable, with minimal bends around. The operator will be able to make significant efforts without fear of accidental displacement of the roller. The reinforced grasping handle will help in this matter. However, do not rely on the versatility of such tools. They perform well in servicing thick and solid workpieces, but small-format tiles with glass coatings can just mess up.
Bosch PTC 1
An entry-level model that is used in a domestic environment. The depth of cut is 10 mm, which is enough to work with tiles for facing the bathroom and kitchen. The main advantage of this version is ergonomics. The tool is very convenient to use and does not require the use of auxiliary devices. For example, if there is a question about how to choose a manual tile cutter for hinged processing, this option is quite suitable. The design weighs only 0.2 kg, so it is not difficult to cut small tiles on its base without support. If you work with the saw station, which is included in the kit, then not only direct, but also arbitrary curved cuts will become possible. The angular range, for example, ranges from -45 ° to + 45 °. The length for the household level is also decent. It is 340 mm. It is also worth choosing this model because of the high quality of the elemental base, which is what the instruments of the German company Bosch are famous for.
Encore 3660
Also a model from the household segment, belonging to state employees of average productivity. The working range of this tile cutter will be more impressive. For example, a support base with guides allows you to fix workpieces with a length of 400 mm. The developers thought of a special system of fastening with plates with closing the base, which prevents slipping tiles. A special rib is also provided for the fault, cutting off the unnecessary part strictly along the established channel. However, reviews of the manual tile cutter of this modification note a very modest depth of cut, which is only 5-6 mm, as well as design weakness. Some masters point to deviations in the cutting line (along the arc), but this is a typical flaw of all budget models of tile cutters. One of the advantages of this model is its low price. Tile cutter "Encore 3660" costs only 800-900 rubles. In terms of working properties, a combination of versatility and good functionality can justify such a purchase.
TOPEX 16B260
This is a mid-level tile cutter. It can be successfully used in the professional field. For example, it is used in laying tile tracks, which indicates the reliability and high productivity of the tool. The length of the cutter is 600 mm, and the depth is about 8 mm. The emphasis in the design is on increasing strength and expanding the possibilities for marking. As for the power base, the device contains tubular guides with a diameter of 16 mm. We can say that this is a perfectly acceptable manual tile cutter for porcelain stoneware and other solid materials. The marking is facilitated by the combination of a goniometer and a measuring scale. These additions are present on the frame, which is made of aluminum alloy. It is known that it is not susceptible to corrosion. In general, the design turned out to be durable, functional and convenient.
RUBI STAR MAX-51
A premium level tool from a well-known Chinese manufacturer on the construction market, which has proved itself from the best sides. The tile cutter has a powerful base on which it is possible to process ceramic workpieces without difficulty and in a stream mode. The handle is provided with a comfortable and tenacious pad, which does not allow the hand to slide off at a crucial moment. The design parameters of the RUBI manual tile cutter of this version are designed to work with material up to 510 mm long and about 12 mm thick. Guide roller made of stainless steel, resistant to corrosion. The quality of the cut (according to the owners) is not satisfactory. With proper dexterity, chips and the smallest deviations can be completely eliminated. The only drawback is the cost, which is about 8 thousand rubles.
Tile Cutting Conditions
Initially, you should correctly approach the preparation of the workplace. At this stage, the following tasks are solved:
- Optimum lighting is created so that all work areas are clearly visible.
- It excludes the possibility of accidental presence of strangers at the work site if they do not have special protective clothing. The fact is that cutting can be accompanied by a flight of fragments, and this is a risk of injury.
- A workbench or desktop is freed from unnecessary items, tools and workpieces. Anything that could accidentally fall into the cutting area carries the risk of injury.
- When working with large volumes, periodically get rid of accumulated dust and crumbs. Many are interested in how to cut tiles with a manual tile cutter so that there is as little trash as possible? At a minimum, it is recommended that each cut be performed in one pass. This will be important in terms of cutting quality. The most “clean” are considered electric models of tile cutters with the ability to connect building dust collectors.
- Attention is also paid to external working conditions. Experts recommend cutting tiles at a positive temperature and humidity not higher than 70%.
How to cut with a manual tile cutter
The whole workflow consists of three stages - fixing the workpiece, performing the cut directly and chipping along the cutting contour. Before work, the workpiece should be cleaned of dust and dirt, and also check the technical condition of the tool. Installation of tiles is carried out using guides on the bed. Depending on the availability of marking devices, risk may be applied. Next, we cut the tile with a manual tile cutter so that the same downforce is maintained over the entire distance. Pressure is exerted on the handle leading the cutting roller. The line is brought to the very end. After this, a fault is performed. Note that you can break a piece manually or using special gadgets. In the first case, grip should be performed through a rag or a thick piece of fabric. After completion of the operation, the resulting slice can be finished with an abrasive. For this operation, sandpaper or grinding stone is suitable.
Tool care
The main requirement for servicing the tool is its regular cleaning both before and after work. The remains of tile chips, dust and other dirt are removed from the bed and from the working bodies. To maintain the optimum working condition of the cutting roller, lubricating oils and technical fluids are used. Some roller designs also require mechanical dressing to maintain the desired direction of cut. The slightest displacement of the working edge of the roller can disrupt the contour of the intended risks, which will lead to damage to the workpiece.
Conclusion
Against the background of the popularization of power tools, manual tile cutters may seem to be a morally obsolete and irrelevant solution to the task of cutting tile materials. This is partly true, since electrical devices benefit in both productivity and cutting quality. However, autonomy, ergonomics and affordable price leave the manual tile cutter on the market. Which is better to choose? Firstly, you should focus on specific requirements for the workflow (from tile parameters to the accuracy of the layout and the conditions for the operation). Secondly, do not forget about additional features, such as cutting holes. As for manufacturers, it is worth giving preference to well-known companies. The products of some of them were reviewed in this review.