Quarry tile is one of the most durable and affordable man-made tiles on the market. It is used in a wide variety of applications where heavy foot traffic is expected, and it can stand up to the test of time under any circumstances. Much like ceramic and porcelain tiles, you can cut quarry tiles in several different ways using the tools of the trade. Knowing how to cut quarry tile for your installation can help make the project go as smoothly as possible.

Use your tape measure and carpenter's pencil to mark any straight cuts that will be made on the tile cutting board. A grease pencil is required for any cuts around corners that will be made on the wet saw, as the regular mark from a pencil will wash off under the water of the tile wet saw.

  • Quarry tile is one of the most durable and affordable man-made tiles on the market.
  • A grease pencil is required for any cuts around corners that will be made on the wet saw, as the regular mark from a pencil will wash off under the water of the tile wet saw.

Use the tile cutting board to make any straight cuts. Place the piece of tile into the cutting board and use the handle with the scoring wheel to score the surface along the pencil mark while applying gentle pressure. Use the handle and corresponding pressure plates to snap the piece of tile across the scored mark. Never score the surface twice, as this will dull the scoring wheel.

Use the tile wet saw to make any cuts around corners, drains or other areas where straight cuts are not an option. In addition, large-body tiles may be too large to cut on a traditional cutting board and may require a tile wet saw to cut.

TIP

All materials and tools can be bought or hired from your local DIY, home improvement or tool hire centre.

WARNING

Always use protective gear, such as safety glasses and earplugs, when working with power tools.