Knowing how to cut granite tile can be the difference between a professional looking installation and one that looks like it was completed by amateurs. You can do it if you get the proper equipment and take the time to learn how to use it efficiently. Obviously, the majority of the tiles that you install on a granite floor won't need to be cut at all. You'll simply have to set them into the mortar. 

Around the edge of the room though, you may find that you need to do some trimming in order to get pieces to fit properly. You may also have to make some intricate cuts in order to install the granite tile around things like columns or staircases that extend into your room. 

Wet Blade Saws

Knowing how to cut granite tile will be very important when you get ready to fit the final pieces. This is the job for a diamond bladed wet saw. It may seem like a large expense in order to cut just a few granite tiles around the edge of the room, but if you've ever tried to cut granite tile by hand then you know that it is well worth it. 

Measure each cut carefully, making sure you take into account the spacing necessary to make the appearance of the granite tiles consistent. Mark each tile on the back with a pencil, and then cut it with the wet saw. 

Safety First

A big part of knowing how to cut granite tile is knowing how to do it safely. Always wear safely glasses. A wet saw spits out a lot of residue and you don't want powdered granite in your eyes. You must also be careful of the edges of cut granite tiles. The diamond blade leaves a very sharp edge on the cut edge of the granite tiles. 

Additionally, the granite tile will be wet right after you cut it and so will your hands. Many cuts are the result of sharp, wet granite tile sliding through wet hands. The most important thing to remember is that a wet saw is an electric power tool that uses a tub full of water. 

Most of the time water starts to puddle up on the floor as you progress with your work. You must make sure that the plug is safely out of the way and that you aren't standing in any puddles while working. 

Nippers can Help

If you are having trouble learning how to cut granite tile at an angle then you may need to use a pair of handheld nippers to get the job done. These can also be used to cut rough round shapes and are ideal for shaping the granite tiles to fit around that pipes that may be coming up through your bathroom floor. 

The cut will be rough, but that shouldn't matter because there are decorative plates available that fit around the base of the pipes. These create a clean, smooth transition and cover up any rough cuts that you may have made.

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