What Tools do i need to cut Brick Tiles?

A big question we get asked is: What Tools do i need to cut Brick Tiles?

If your DIY project involves brick tiles, more than likely you will need to cut those brick tiles. This can seem quite daunting but fear not!

We have put together a quick guide with some advice on what tools you’ll need and how to use them.

Why would you need to cut your brick tiles?

Nearly all brick tile projects will require some cutting unless you are extremely lucky and your wall works out to the nearest full or half brick.

The main areas which require cutting are edges and corners. Brick tiles will also need to be cut if you’re tiling around a window, door, bathroom suite or kitchen cupboard.

Types of brick slip cutter

There are a few ways with which brick tiles can be cut properly and yield amazing results. What ever your project or budget you will find a cutting tool to suit the job in hand below:

Wet cut electric cutter

An electric wet cutter would be the preferred tool for the job. These work in a similar way to an electric saw, and are a great idea especially if you have lots of brick tiles to cut.

Brick tile cutters are quicker and easier to use than a manual saw.

What to remember when using an electric tile cutter:

• Hand and eye protection are both musts. Small pieces of brick can and are likely to fly up in the air as you cut, so you need to be prepared.
• We would also recommend you wear a mask. On wet cut saws masks are not essential but in our experience you don’t want to be inhaling abrasive dust so best be safe.
• Cut the Brick tiles outside if possible.

Angle Grinders

A small 4 inch angle grinder complete with a stone cutting disk will easily cut brick tiles. This method takes a little more time and precision and requires a steady hand. We would only advise using an angle grinder if you have few cuts to do.

• Make sure you follow the manufacturers instructions on safety and use, grinders can differ so this is a must.
• Hand and eye protection are both musts. Small pieces of brick can and are likely to fly up in the air as you cut, so you need to be prepared.
• We would also recommend you wear a mask.

Hand saw

Yes! you heard correct. A normal fine tooth hand saw can be used for straight cutting brick tiles. Although time consuming this is a very effective and controlled way of getting the cuts just how you want the,.

• Be aware, clay and brick is more abrasive that timber so will blunt your saw much quicker.

Hammer and chisel

The most basic way of cutting or breaking brick tiles is using the old fashioned masons way. A hammer and bolster or chisel will give a clean cut. It is worth noting that the edge will not be perfect and it may take a bit of practice before you get good at it.

This method works well on reclaimed bricks or rustic bricks. Where the uneven edge adds to the aesthetic.

• Hand and eye protection are both musts. Small pieces of brick can and are likely to fly up in the air as you cut, so you need to be prepared.
• We would also recommend you wear a mask.

Please get in touch.

If you have any questions you can always email us for more advice. Our technical team are always on hand to answer your questions.