It's not uncommon for someone to use an angle grinder to sharpen their mower blades or secateurs, which is just one of the many uses. The same power tool will smooth a rough surface on the steel window frame or even cut off a small piece of metal that protrudes dangerously from the grill. In the future, you can also learn how to cut tiles with an angle grinder like a pro.
While the angle grinder is easy to use, it does take some learning and training to acquire the skills to use the tool safely and do a satisfactory job.
Choose the right type of angle grinder
Although all angle grinders can perform the tasks of cutting, grinding, polishing, and sanding, the type of work, whether light, medium, or hard, will affect the choice of tool. Light and medium weight angle grinders are best suited for household and industrial applications. For heavy duty applications, you need rugged mills that run on gas, such as those used in oil and gas facilities and the construction industry. The type of surface determines the type of grinding wheel. This is especially true when cutting tiles, which would require different types of cutting discs to cut tiles into different shapes. You can give tiles different shapes depending on the design or pattern.
A diamond blade used with an angle grinder is best for cutting tiles, although cutting with a wet saw seems most effective. However, since it takes longer to cut tiles manually and it is also difficult to maintain accuracy, cutting tiles with the help of angle grinders is a better option. In this article, we're going to give you a step-by-step guide on how to cut tiles with an angle grinder.
The preparation
Before starting the actual work, make sure you understand the job and what it takes to get the job done satisfactorily. A smooth-edged diamond-tipped blade is best for cutting ceramic tiles with an angle grinder. You will need to use notched blades for porcelain tile. However, for natural stone tiles, you need to use serrated blades. Diamond blades leave a smooth cut without damaging the tiles. However, firmly tighten the disc or blade on the grinder to avoid damaging the tiles from vibration. Cover the edges of the ceramic tiles with tape to protect them from chipping when you cut them. For complete protection, use earplugs, a dust mask and safety glasses as the diamond blade generates a lot of dust and noise when cutting. You are now ready to start cutting.
Choose the right tool
Although there are several types of angle grinders on the market, from electric grinders to pneumatic grinders to gas powered grinders, electric grinders, corded or cordless grinders are most preferred for use in standard settings. Electric grinders are most convenient to use for large jobs because they cover more area.
Get the right blade
Take into account the type of tile, porcelain, or natural stone you plan to cut to make it easy to choose the cutting disc or blade that can provide the cut you want. For the smoothest cut on ceramic tile, you'll need to use a diamond cutting blade. To cut tiles from natural stone that are thicker and harder than ceramic tiles and you don't mind having rough edges when cutting, a serrated blade is your best bet, and it's also best for cutting concrete and brick.
Hold the tile in place
After you've selected the grinder and blade, it's time to start cutting. Using a clamp, securely attach the piece of tile to the surface you want to work on. Perform the task in a well-ventilated room so that the dust created during cutting can escape from the room, which can otherwise lead to a risk of suffocation. Before starting the process, put on protective goggles, mask, earplugs and gloves, and check the electrical connection of the batteries while turning on the power to verify that the grinder is working.
Complete marking of the tile
Measure the tile and mark the part you want to cut according to the size and shape you want. It can either be a straight cut or some other circular, semicircular, or rectangular shape. Use tape when marking and cutting the tile to prevent it from flaking off the edge.
Cut the tile
After you have cut the tile, hold the grinder in the correct place and angle on the tile and apply the correct cutting pressure as you pull it along the cutting line. Depending on the thickness of the tile, keep increasing the pressure to complete the process.
