Learning how to use a wet tile saw can be handy for projects like cutting backsplashes, cutting counter tops, kitchen re-modelling, and cutting tiles for floor and wall tiles – especially in the bathroom.
The good thing is, they are an easy to use tool – which means both the DIY’er and the professional can use them effectively and simply.
In this guide, we will run you through how to use a wet tile saw, uses, safety tips, differences with other table saws, blades, sizes of saws and who makes the best wet tile saw.
There’s a bit of value here for everyone.
(*Note that this is a general information guide only, and not professional advice. Do your own research about proper safety and operating practices before using a wet tile saw)
How To Use A Wet Tile Saw: FAQ, Tips & Different Uses
How To Use A Wet Tile Saw – Steps
Wet tile saws are not a complicated tool to use:
1. Make sure the water reservoir is filled, and start the saw by turning on the on/off switch (don’t start the saw with the blade up against the tile)
2. With your tile away from the blade, make sure you have it marked and measured, and any fence or guides set to straight or bevel type cuts
3. When you are ready, push the tile into the blade and cut
4. Dry the tile off and you can touch up the cut if you choose to with a file or a stone
Wet Tile Saw Uses
These tools can be handy for projects like backsplash tile and stone, counter top stone, bathroom tiling, and kitchen re-modelling. Specifically, here is how you can approach cutting different materials with a wet tile saw:
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How to use a wet tile saw for cutting ceramic and porcelain tiles
This should be pretty straight forward.
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How to use a wet tile saw for cutting bricks and masonry
You might consider a cutoff saw or brick saw for cutting bricks and masonry – but you can use a wet tile saw how you would if cutting tiles.
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How to use a wet tile saw for cutting glass
The thicker the glass, the better.
If the glass is too thin it can splinter and crack, so something like a wine bottle thickness of glass is perfect.
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How to use a wet tile saw for cutting marble, granite and stone
Cut marble, granite and stone the same way you cut tiles. Other tools you can use are angle grinders and brick saws.
Safety Tips For Using A Wet Tile Saw
For using a wet tile saw, you’ll definitely need:
Ear protection – ear plugs or ear muffs
Eye Protection – safety glasses
Gloves if you think you need them – especially when working with glass or rough stone
An apron will help keep the mess and water off your clothes
Wear safety boots if dealing with heavy tiles
Keep your hands either side of the tile to keep it steady, and leave a safe distance between the blade and your fingers
Wet Tile Saw vs. Table Saw vs. Cutoff/Brick Saw – What’s The Difference?
The main differences between wet tile saws, table saws and brick/cutoff saws are –
Wet tile saws use a wet blade and mainly cut tiles, stone and glass
Table Saws use a dry blade and cut mainly timber and metal
Cutoff saws and brick saws can be a table type saw of a free saw, and can use a dry or wet blade (but mainly wet to deal with brick dust)
Wet Tile Saw Blades – Type and Size
Most standard or smaller wet tile saw blades are 7 inches (178mm) in diameter, and are a steel blade with diamond grit.
The bigger wet tile saws for professionals and tradesmen have more in the range of 10 inch diameter blades.
What Size Wet Tile Saw Do I Need
You can measure the size of a wet tile saw mainly by two things – the size of the table/top, and the size of the blade.
The smaller wet tile saws for homeowners and DIY’ers generally fit 12-18 inch tiles, and have a 7 inch blade. For doing small to medium projects irregularly, one of these saws should be fine for most people.
The larger wet tile saws for professionals generally have 10 inch diameter blades, and can fit 20+ inch tiles on the saw top.
Who Makes The Best Wet Tile Saw
You can read about the best wet tile saw models, types and brands in Best Wet Tile Saw: Buyer’s Guide & Reviews.
