How to Measure Diagonal Tile Cuts

How to Measure Diagonal Tile Cuts
Published: Feb 3, 2011
Updated: Nov 20, 2021
1 minute read
  1. Measure the width the diagonally cut tile needs to be by measuring the distance from the tip of the right angle of the space where the tile will be inserted to the hypotenuse, which should be the wall or other boarder you are tiling to. It is also crucial to ensure that this measurement is perpendicular to the wall or border to get an accurate result.

  2. Draw a line on the tile to be cut connecting two opposite corners. Use a straightedge to ensure that the line is straight.

  3. Use a T-square, protractor or other measurement device to draw a line perpendicular to the first line, extending to the corresponding corner.

  4. Measure from the corner down the line to the measurement from Step 1. Mark off the measurement and draw a perpendicular line to the mark.

  5. Cut along the line on the tile to cut it to size. Wear eye protection when making the cut to ensure no injury results from pieces of the tile breaking off. Repeat this process for each tile, as each tile that needs cutting may vary in size.

Tips

Double-check all your measurements. It's better to spend a little more preparation time rather than waste money and time having to buy additional materials in the middle of a project.

Remember that if you find places where the measurements are the same, you can use an already cut tile as a template.

Warnings

It is easy to assume that all tiles will be the same size, or to eyeball the cuts. While this might seem as if it will save time, this can lead to a large waste of materials, increasing the cost of the project.

Photo Credits

Jupiterimages/Comstock/Getty Images

Shanika Chapman

Shanika Chapman has been writing business-related articles since 2009. She holds a Bachelor of Science in social science from the University of Maryland University College. Chapman also served for four years in the Air Force and has run a…

Sponsored
HomeSteady Logo

HomeSteady is the ultimate guide for all your household needs, from cleaning and HVAC to electrical, DIY and maintenance.

Property of TechnologyAdvice. © 2026 TechnologyAdvice. All Rights Reserved

Advertiser Disclosure: Some of the products that appear on this site are from companies from which TechnologyAdvice receives compensation. This compensation may impact how and where products appear on this site including, for example, the order in which they appear. TechnologyAdvice does not include all companies or all types of products available in the marketplace.