A Good Wet Tile Saw Results in a Great Tile Job

A wet tile saw is much the same as any motorized power saw but with one major addition. A wet saw has the addition of a pump and/or water reservoir to keep the saw blade cool. If a water cooling system was not included, the blade would quickly dull when cutting tiles made of ceramic or different types of stone materials. Not to mention that the tiles would shatter due to the heat produced by the blade.

Another major difference in these saws is the type of blade.  The blade on a normal circular saw has teeth to separate the wood fibers.  A tile saw blade must grind its way through the material.  These blades have a rough edge encrusted with diamond or sand on the outer edges.

Wet tile saws do not cause a dust collection issue since the dust they do create is mixed with the water that runs into the reservoir below the cutting surface.

All motorized saws are rated by the horsepower they produce.  The more power produced, the faster the blade turns, thus, the faster the blade will cut.  Therefore, you want to purchase as much horsepower as your wallet will allow.

Next, consider what you will be using the saw for.  If you will only need the saw for cutting wall or floor tiles, you will not be as concerned with depth capacity of the blade so a smaller blade will be sufficient.  A smaller blade requires less horsepower to turn adequately and will save you big bucks over having to purchase a saw with a blade depth sufficient enough to cut through bricks say.

If you are purchasing a table tile saw, buy one that allows the table to be tilted.  This will let you make bevel cuts which will make for a much more versatile saw.  A miter guage is also a great added feature, so consider a saw that includes this option.

One last thing that will greatly increase the accuracy of your cuts is a laser guide.  The laser projects a strong beam of light on the cutting surface which allows a precise but without having to mark the material.  Many modern tile saws are equipped with this type guide and is a good option if you can afford the extra cash.

While most quality saws will come with a quality blade, you may still want to upgrade to the highest quality blade available since this is the most important accessory for your saw.  After making a few cuts with an inferior blade, I think you will find it well worth the money you will spend for the upgrade.  Look for a diamond edge blade.  This blade is made of medal with a diamond dusted edge that will grind through tiles like butter if turned at an adequate speed.

Another nice feature to have is an attached lamp.  Too much light will never be a problem when making some of the intricate cuts necessary for a great tile job.

Lastly, consider purchasing a stand for your wet saw.  Sometimes the area you are working in will not allow for you to set your table wet tile saw on a counter or bench.  A sturdy stand will allow you to place the saw at a working height that will save lots of wear and tear on your back and your knees.