Tile Saw Buying Guide

Tile saws are used to cut tiles and are essential for any tile-based projects, like flooring, backsplashes, or even walls. But with so many different types of tile saws available, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one. In this tile saw buying guide, we'll provide you with all the information you need to know to make an informed decision.

Types of Tile Saws

There are three main types of tile saws to choose from: handheld, tabletop, and stand-up.

Handheld Tile Saws

Handheld tile saws are portable and can be used to make straight or curved cuts. They come in two types: wet and dry. Wet handheld tile saws rely on water to cool the blade and reduce dust, making them perfect for larger projects. Dry handheld tile saws, on the other hand, are best for small projects and touch-ups. They can only cut through thin materials like ceramic and porcelain tiles as well as glass and mosaics.

Tabletop Tile Saws

Tabletop tile saws are stationary and rest on a surface, making them more stable and easier to use. They're ideal for cutting thicker tiles, stones, and bricks. Most tabletop tile saws have a water reservoir that cools the blade, minimizes dust, and lubricates the blade. Some tabletop tile saws can also be used to make beveled cuts and can usually cut tiles up to 24 inches long.

Stand-Up Tile Saws

Stand-up tile saws are the largest and most powerful tile saws available. They're usually found in professional settings or for those who need to cut grander tile pieces like large format tiles, stone or concrete. They're stable and powerful but the size and cost might make them more suitable to a tile cutting business.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Tile Saw

When buying a tile saw, you need to consider a few factors:

• Type of tile: Different types of tile require different saws. For instance, a diamond blade saw is best for cutting natural stone and porcelain, while a standard tile saw works best for ceramic tiles.
• Cutting capacity: You should choose a tile saw that's capable of cutting tiles the size of the project you're working on. Some saws can cut between 16-28 inches, while others can handle larger and thicker materials.
• Power: The power of the motor determines how easy it is to cut through tough materials. For handheld saws, you'll typically find motors between 3-10 amps, while tabletop saws have a motor range of 1-2 horsepower. If you're planning to cut thicker tile or stone, you'll need a saw with a higher horsepower.
• Water source: If you plan on cutting tiles that require water to prevent overheating and to control dust, ensure the saw you choose has a water source. Handheld saws sometimes come with their own water tanks, or you can purchase an external water tank to hold more water than the inbuilt one. For tabletop wet saws, you can fill up the built-in tank with water, and for stand-up tile saws, you can usually connect the saw to a water source.
• Blade type: You want to select a blade that matches the type of tile you'll be working with. Diamond blades can cut through natural stone, while ceramic blades are suitable for ceramic floor tiles. Other types of blades include carbide and high-speed steel, which are used for cutting metal and work well on small devices.
• Price: The cost of a tile saw can vary depending on the brand, size, and power. Handheld tile saws tend to be the most affordable, while stand-up tile saws are the most expensive.

Features to Look For in a Tile Saw

Tile saws come with a variety of features that can make your work easier and more efficient. Here are a few to consider:

• Laser Guide: A laser guide can make cutting more precise and ensure you cut at the exact spot on the tile. If the saw doesn't come with a laser guide, make sure it has a straight edge that you can use as a guide.
• Bevel Cutting: Bevel cutting allows you to create angled edges, usually up to 45 degrees. You should look for a saw that can bevel in both directions, which will make it easier to create different types of cuts. Bevel cutting allows you to create beautiful backplashes and wall designs.
• Blade Changing Abilities: Different tiles will require different blades, so it's important that the tile saw you choose allows for easy blade replacement. Look for a saw that has a quick-release mechanism to make blade changes simple and easy.
• Portability: If you're planning on working on different job sites, choose a portable tile saw that's easy to carry and transport. For example, a handheld tile saw will be much more convenient for portability than a stand-up model.
• Dust Collection: Cutting tiles generates a lot of dust, which can make the work area messy and unhealthy. Look for a tile saw that comes with a dust collecting port, or has a system in place that cleans the work area as you work.
• Accessories: Consider choosing a tile saw that comes equipped with accessories that you might need such as built-in extension tables, side water trays, or adjustable stands for extra convenience.

Safety Tips for Using a Tile Saw

Using a tile saw can be dangerous if you don't take the proper precautions. Here are a few tips to keep in mind:

• Wear Safety Gear: Always wear eye protection, gloves and earplugs when operating a tile saw to protect against debris, as well as the loud noise generated while cutting tiles. Avoid wearing loose-fitting clothing that can get caught in the saw and tie up hair so that it doesn't dangle towards the saw.
• Use GFCI Outlets: Always plug the tile saw into a GFCI outlet, which will automatically shut off a circuit if any electrical shortage occurs. This will avoid devastating electrical accidents, electric shocks and fires.
• Take Breaks as Needed: Tile saws can generate a lot of heat, which can wear you down quickly without proper rest. Slow down and take breaks at regular intervals to avoid accidents and fatigue.
• Don't Force The Tile Through The Blade: Pressing down too fast on the tile or pushing too hard through the blade will result in a broken tile and can also cause the blade to dangerously kickback. If the tile isn't cutting through the blade, pause and move the blade back and forth to avoid putting excessive strain on the blade and avoid pressuring the tile downward.
• Clean up the Work Area: Tile saws can generate a lot of dust and debris, so clean up the work area regularly. This can prevent dust-related illnesses that come with prolonged exposure and keep the workplace safe from tripping hazards.
• Unplug the tile saw when Not in use: Brick and tile saws can pose serious risks to you and anyone in the vicinity even when not in use. Unplug your tile saw from the socket to prevent anyone, mostly children, from simply turning on the saw and exposing themselves to potential injury.

Conclusion

Choosing the right tile saw will depend on the type of tile you're cutting, the size of the project, and how often you plan to use the saw. With this tile saw buying guide, you're now ready to make an informed decision. Remember to also take all necessary safety precautions before, during, and after use to prevent accidents and injuries.