Buying a Wet Table Ceramic Tile Saw

You will probably wind up saving money in the end just by having less ceramic tile breakage.

Wet table ceramic tile saws, are great for making both long straight cuts and mitered cuts. They can also be used for making more intricate cuts that nippers normally would be used on, however unlike with nippers you will have a lot less breakage.

Wet saws come in a variety of blade sizes, including 4 1/2”, 7”, and 10” blades. For most do it yourself projects a 7” blade wet saw is appropriate.

Wet table ceramic tile saws usually are powered by a direct drive motor that turns a diamond studded blade. A small pan sits underneath the table. This pan holds a small reservoir of water that the blade rotates through, thus cooling the blade as it cuts. Cooling the blade results in a much cleaner cut and protects the motor from binding up and being damaged.

Another key attribute associated with the motor is the rotational speed of the motor/blade. When buying a wet saw check for the blade rotation speed. Typically the blade choices operate from around 3400 revolutions per minute (rpm) to 5500 rpm. For most do-it-yourselfers, a 3600 rpm saw speed is sufficient. Another important specification associated with the motor is the horsepower (hp) rating. The horsepower not only dictates the speed of the blade, but also the torque of it, which is important when cutting through large, thick ceramic tiles.

When looking for a ceramic tile wet saw make sure you choose one that has the power to handle your unique ceramic tile project. Smaller, lighter weight units typically have motors with 1/3 hp. The larger saws typically have ½ hp capability. I personally prefer the beefier ½ hp types.

Also when selecting a ceramic tile wet saw, make sure that the blade can be adjusted to make both beveled and mitered cuts.

Most do, however it is good to check. Basically the thermal overload protection feature helps to protect the motor from overheating and potentially being damaged. 

One last word on safety: Always use safety glasses when cutting ceramic tile. Though all wet saws have a protective shield covering the blade, a single sharp loose ceramic tile chip can do severe damage to your eye.