Quick Answer: Which Is Easier To Cut Ceramic Or Porcelain Tile?

What is harder to cut ceramic or porcelain tile?

NOTE – while porcelain tiles are harder and more dense, this also makes them more difficult to cut and shape. Ceramic tiles can be cut much more easily by hand using a wet tile saw or snap tile cutter, while porcelain tiles require much more experience in order to get a clean, accurate cut.

What are the easiest tiles to cut?

Not only does it cost significantly less than porcelain, it’s also easier to install. Thanks to its relatively soft surface, homeowners can cut ceramic tile with a simple tile cutter —a piece of cake when you consider the far more involved process of cutting porcelain tile.

Does porcelain tile cut easily?

Porcelain tile is very hard; therefore, you need a powerful wet diamond saw when you want to cut your tile. However, it can be difficult to cut porcelain without chipping it.

Does porcelain tile need to be sealed?

The surface of most ceramic and porcelain tile does not need to be sealed, although some require a light application of a penetrating sealer to fill the micro pores on the surface of the tile. However, the grout joint between the tiles is usually very porous and generally made of a cement-based material.

How can I tell if my tile is ceramic or porcelain?

Look closely at the glaze: if it’s chipped, you will be able to see the tile’s white or tan base. This is a sure sign that the tile is ceramic. Porcelain tiles are sometimes, but not always, glazed. Most high-quality porcelain tiles will have a consistent color that goes through the top, body, and bottom of the tile.

What is the best way to cut porcelain tile?

Cutting porcelain tile with a wet saw is the most efficient and most highly recommended option, although Dremels and hand tools can easily be used to cut porcelain to your specifications as well.

How do you score a snap tile without a tile cutter?

Position your straightedge as desired, and hold it securely in place, applying ample pressure. With moderate downward pressure, drag the carbide-tipped pencil along the straightedge, across the length of the tile, to make your cut. Quickly repeat the cut, making a few drags across the tile, to create a scored line.

Will Home Depot cut tiles for me?

Home Depot does not cut tiles. You can get help during one of the Home Depots demonstrations.

What kind of blade Do I need to cut porcelain tile?

Diamond blades are circular shaped saws used for sawing and cutting construction materials. Tile installers use these types of saws on remodeling or new construction projects, when they need to cut tile, concrete, porcelain and other materials.

What is the best drill bit to use on porcelain tiles?

Ceramic tile can be drilled with a carbide bit, while glass and porcelain call for a diamond-tipped bit. While that sounds expensive, a ¼ inch diamond tipped tip costs under $20, and a carbide bit of the same size can be had for less than $10. When in doubt, buy the diamond bit. It will drill any type of tile.

What type of grout should I use for porcelain tile?

Epoxy grout can be used on porcelain tile. By using epoxy grout you’ll be sure to use the highest quality grout in the market that will last a lifetime.

How do you clean porcelain tile before sealing?

Steps to Sealing Porcelain Tile

1. Start by cleaning the tile and grout, either with a vinegar-water mixture or a commercially made cleaner.
2. Apply the sealant with a rag or applicator.
3. After letting the sealant saturate into the tile for a few minutes, wipe up the residual sealant.