How to Cut Porcelain Paving

An Informative Porcelain Paving Cutting Guide

Over the years, DIY enthusiasts, home owners and landscapers have started to realise that Porcelain Paving is a smart and cost-effective choice. This is due to the strong durability, wider appearance choice compared to natural stone and a high resistance against the elements. A new question regarding this porcelain option started to become increasingly common, ‘How do you cut Porcelain Paving Slabs?’. Cutting this slab option does require a little more leg work to ensure the cuts are clean and there is minimal wastage so based on this question, we have put together a small guide, hoping it puts our readers on the right path.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this guide is for informational purposes only. Paving Stones Direct UK Ltd is not responsible for any damages, injuries, or losses resulting from the use of this information. All actions taken based on the information in this guide are solely the responsibility of the user. It is recommended to seek professional advice tailored to your specific circumstances before undertaking any project.

Step 1: Choosing the Right Tools

Selecting the right tools means being able to effectively cut porcelain into the desired shapes. Here’s an overview of the tools you will need, each suited for different types of cuts:

• Porcelain Cutting Discs: The first thing to do is ensure you have the right cutting discs that will give the desired effect. For the best results, diamond tipped cutting blades are recommended. Paving Stones Direct stocks a wide range of diamond cutting discs, perfect for this job.
• Tile Cutter: Almost essential for straight, clean cuts which is very useful for 20mm thick porcelain slabs.
• Angle Grinder: While a high level of experience is recommended, Angle grinders are great for making intricate cuts such as curves or corners. Make sure you attach a diamond tipped blade.
• Wet Saw: This option is a fantastic choice for thick or larger format porcelain slabs. It uses a jetty of water to cool the blade while also reducing the amount of dust produced.

Depending on the project scope, you may find that one tool is not enough and multiple are needed so it’s best to get a bit of advice before making any firm decisions.

Step 2: Preparing to Cut

Proper preparation could be the difference between success and failure so it’s always worth putting in the work at this point to ensure any cuts are done to a high standard. Follow these steps:

1. Measure and Mark: Double check all measurements to ensure you will be cutting the right amount. To ensure you can see your markings, use a china marker or a grease pencil for clear, smudge free lines on the porcelain surface.
2. Secure the Slab: While this is self explanatory, it’s worth noting all the same. Ensure that the porcelain slab is secured to a stable surface before any attempt to cut  is done. Use clamps or non-slip mats under the slab for added stability.
3. Safety Precautions: The most important step of this entire process. Always wear appropriate PPE gear such as eye protection, ear protection and a dust mask. Porcelain shards can be sharp and cutting can generate harmful dust so it’s important to take the necessary precautions.

Step 3: Cutting the Slab

Now the preparations have been completed, now it’s time for the executions. Below is an overview of how to cut a slab based on the types of cuts required:

• Straight Cuts:
• Using a Tile Cutter: Ideal for repeated straight cuts. Score the surface along the marked line, then snap the tile along the score. This tool is perfect for jobs requiring numerous identical cuts.
• Using a Wet Saw: For thicker or larger tiles, a wet saw ensures straight, clean cuts with minimal dust. Feed the tile slowly and steadily to avoid blade jamming.
• Complex Cuts:
• Using an Angle Grinder: For detailed cuts, such as L-cuts or circle cuts, use an angle grinder with a diamond blade. Start by marking the cutout on the slab, then gradually deepening the cut, ensuring to cool the blade periodically.
• Drill Holes for Detailed Cutouts: When needing to create a hole or start an intricate cut, drilling a pilot hole with a diamond core bit can facilitate the process.

Additional Advice:

• Cutting Curves and Shapes:
• Template Use: For complex shapes, create a cardboard template first. Trace the template onto the slab and use a combination of a wet saw and angle grinder to achieve the desired shape.
• Gradual Cutting: For deep cuts or shapes, make several shallow passes to gradually achieve the depth, reducing the risk of breaking the slab.

Step 4: The Finishing Touches

It’s important to smooth out any rough edges using a diamond hand pad or rubbing stone. This step is not only good aesthetically, but also for safety as any cuts made can be sharp, even after laying so take extra time in ensuring that safety measures have been taken. This will also make the slabs much easier for laying in the bedding.

Bonus FAQ

To ensure we have covered as much as possible, here is a bonus FAQ for some of the more popular questions.

• What is the best tool for cutting porcelain slabs?
• While the type of job plays a big part in this decision, generally an angle grinder or a wet saw is recommended, subject to the complexity and size of the cut required.
• How do you cut porcelain without chipping?
• It’s best to use a continuous diamond-coated blade and make sure the tool and blade does not overheat. Feed the paving slab slowly and with a steady pressure.
• Can you cut porcelain with a grinder?
• Angle grinders are a common choice when choosing a tool for cutting porcelain. The grinder must be fitted with a diamond blade. This will make it suitable for various cuts, including intricate shapes and small cutouts.

While daunting at first, porcelain cuts can really make your new garden patio stand out and help to shape the paving to your home.

Paving Stones Direct

We firmly believe in giving our customers the best experience possible, so that is why we strive to provide the best quality porcelain paving at the lowest prices, all while providing support and advice. If you require any information regarding porcelain paving stones or anything else, please give us a call on 0333 321 5091 or email us on sales@pavingstones.co.uk.