How to File Ceramic Tile

eHow may earn compensation through affiliate links in this story. Learn more about our affiliate and product review process here.

Things You'll Need

  • Tile

  • Ceramic tile file

  • Gloves

  • Safety goggles

Image Credit: Jupiterimages/Photos.com/Getty Images

When glazed tile is cut it has a rough, ragged unfinished edge. You can dress that unfinished edge by smoothing it with a ceramic tile file. This type of file has carbide grit cemented to it, the same as is used to tumble stone. It's this strong abrasive grit that smooths the raw cut edges of porcelain, stoneware and earthenware ceramic tiles. A ceramic tile file is a handheld tool that anybody can use.

Advertisement

Step 1

Cut a tile with a manual or electric tile cutter.

Video of the Day

Step 2

Set the tile on the edge of a work surface with the cut surface hanging over the edge. Press down on the back half of the tile with the heel of the non-dominant hand. Holding the tile file in the other hand, set the carbide edge against the rough edge of the tile. Set the file against the tile about one inch in from the tip and push down in a smooth, downward stroke.

Advertisement

Step 3

Repeat Step 2 until the cut edge of the tile is smooth. Finish by rolling the file slightly over the edge on the downward stoke. This will give the tile a slightly rolled, beveled edge.

Warning

The raw edge of a cut tile is as sharp as glass, and can cut you.

Advertisement

Video of the Day

references & resources