How to Use a Wet Saw

Using a wet saw to cut tile is an efficient way to achieve precise cuts. This handy and powerful tool is a favorite of professionals and DIY enthusiasts alike for ensuring a properly fitted tile edge, and can make just about any tiling job go faster and more smoothly.  

In this article, we will cover step-by-step instructions for how to safely make straight cuts and more complex cuts with a wet saw, as well as how to cut more challenging tiles such as glass and natural stone.

Safety Precautions When Using a Wet Saw

A wet saw is a powerful tool, but it is not without its safety requirements. Following these precautions will help ensure you stay safe while cutting tile.  

Safety Equipment

Safety Goggles

Protect your eyes from flying debris and water splashes.

Ear Protection

Wet saws can be loud, so use ear protection to prevent hearing damage.

Dust Mask 

While wet saws reduce dust, a dust mask can prevent dust and potential spray from the water from getting into your nose or mouth. 

Proper Machine Use

Dress for Success 

Avoid loose clothing, dangling jewelry and tie back long hair to prevent entanglement with the blade. 

Maintain Control 

Use both hands to firmly hold and feed the material through the blade. Additionally, ensure the saw is placed on a surface that allows you to reach all the way across it comfortably. 

Stay clear of the blade 

Keep your hands clear of the cutting path. Use a push stick if necessary to guide the tile safely. The blade itself is unlikely to injure your skin if you brush up against it, but it will pose significant danger to your fingernails. 

When to Use a Wet Saw

A wet saw is the best tool to use for demanding and complex tiling projects. It is an essential tool for making intricate cuts such as L-cuts, U-cuts, and curve cuts, as well as for handling thicker or harder materials like stone, marble, granite and glass tiles. Wet saws are also able to easily work through a high volume of tile while still providing precise and clean cuts, which are especially important for achieving professional-looking results and for large-scale projects.