Tools and Materials
Tools
How to Tile Corners: Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these steps for tiling the corners:
It is best to start tiling corners after completing the tile installation across the open middle space. Though you can work the other way round, there is a risk of an asymmetrical layout.
Use a measuring tape to find the distance between the wall edge and the nearest tile to this wall. Note down this distance and subtract ¼ inches from it. This ¼ inches of space is required to accommodate the grout or caulk later.
Follow the same procedure for all the other edges of the corner tiles you plan to install. This will give you the required dimensions of the corner tile.
Now, draw the cutting lines on the tile using measuring tape and pencil. Make small markings and then connect them with the help of a ruler. You may also use tracing paper to trace any asymmetrical corners. You can use the following method to measure the tile and draw cutting lines for inside and outside corners:
Mark Cutting Lines for Inside Corner:
Determine the exact distance between the edge of the installed tile and the corner where the next tile will fit. Mark this distance on the back of the corner tile to be installed. Use a ruler and pencil to draw straight lines where the tile needs to be cut.
If the tile needs to fit around an uneven surface, place a piece of tracing paper over the corner and trace the shape. Then, transfer the traced outline onto the tile.
Mark Cutting Lines for Outside Corner:
When cutting tile for outside corners, ensure that it fits the empty corner space. Line the tile where you wish to install it. Make sure it aligns well with the surrounding corners. Now, slide it to create a gap of ¼ inches for caulking. Use a pencil to create markings where you will need to cut the tile.
Different tools are required to cut different types of tiles. Always refer to the manufacturer’s instructions before using any tool for tile cornering.
Using Manual Cutter
Cut your tiles made of glass, ceramic or porcelain with a manual cutter. Make sure you are using a tile cutter that is wider than your tiles. Place the manual tile cutter on your workbench or floor. Make sure it is placed vertically in front of you. Now, slide the lever towards yourself to its maximum length.
Push the tile beneath the blade rails with the marked cutting line over the central guideline on the cutter. Push the lever to allow the blade to score the tile surface. Again, push the lever downwards with some force to cut the tile into two sections.
Using Wet Saw
A wet saw is a preferred choice for cutting tiles. It has a diamond-coated blade which is designed to cut through hard materials and is kept cool with a continuous water flow.
You can use a wet saw to cut through any tile material. First, make sure its reservoir is full and the blade is clean. Ensure that the wet saw is firmly secured on the workbench. Position the tile to align the cutting line with the blade.
Also, make sure that the tile fits flush with the guide plates of the wet saw. If not, you will have to adjust the guide plates accordingly. To do this, locate the small end lever on the wet saw near the guide plates. Pull this lever out and then move the plate to the desired position. Now, push the lever to its original position till you hear a clicking sound.
Place the tile you plan to cut against the guide plate with the glazed side upwards. Make sure that the marked cutting line is parallel to the wet saw’s blade. Turn the power on and allow the wet saw to run for around 20 seconds.
Once the blade has reached its full speed, gently guide the tile toward the blade. You may need to apply mild pressure to push the tile through the blade. Once the tile is cut, switch off the power and allow the wet saw to stop completely. Once it has stopped, you can pick up the cut tile.
Cutting the tile produces fine dust particles. Wear a respirator and safety glasses during the process.
Always use a wet saw outdoors. The water can splash indoors and create a mess. Also, wear safety glasses and safety gloves when working with it.
An angle grinder is recommended to cut tiles made of natural stone. Use clamps to secure the tile on your work surface. Turn on the grinder and guide the blade along the cutting line. Apply light pressure with steady hands.
Place the tile you’ve cut in place and check if it fits correctly. Make any adjustments if required. Prepare the mortar as per the manufacturer’s instructions. Apply mortar to the surface with a tile trowel. Make sure the mortar has been laid evenly. Arrange the corner tiles and use tile spacers between the adjacent tiles. Let the mortar harden for at least a day or two.
Position the tile spacers so that they stick out a bit. They may set in the mortar if placed incorrectly.
Remove the tile spacers and take the grout of your choice. Scoop out a generous amount of grout and place it between the tiles. Spread it across the installed tiles with a rubber grout float. Remember to leave the edges between the tile and the wall. Use a wet sponge to wipe away the excess grout. Let the grout dry for 24 hours.
Work your way quickly when using a grout. It can become difficult to work with it if it hardens.
Follow the manufacturer’s instructions when applying the grout.
The corner seams must be sealed with caulk to prevent any water damage. This is especially necessary in kitchens and bathroom tiles. Cornering is essential in these high-moisture areas and a caulk gun is one of the best solutions to ensure a tight water seal. Apply a generous amount of caulk on the tile corners. Take the help of any disposable straightedge like a popsicle stick to flatten the caulk. Allow it to dry as per the user manual.
Refer to the user manual when sealing the corners with caulking.
Check for any loose tiles, gaps or residue. Apply tile adhesive to secure the tile. Use more grout or caulk to fill up any gaps. Once dry, gently scrape off the residue of caulk with a scraper or putty knife. However, be careful not to scratch the tiles. Next, wipe the tile surface clean with a damp cloth or sponge.
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