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The lifespan of tile flooring can vary significantly based on the material and maintenance. Generally, tile flooring can last anywhere from 10 to 30 years, but high-quality, well-maintained ceramic tile can last 75 to 100 years. To achieve a longer lifespan, you should clean the tiles and grout regularly, reseal the grout annually, keep the floor dry, and avoid placing extremely heavy items on it to prevent cracking. Choosing a high-quality tile (Grade 1) will also contribute to its longevity.

Yes, but you’ll have to use some other type of tool to avoid damaging the tile and possibly injuring yourself. Some alternatives to tile cutters include a glass cutter, angle grinder, and wet saw. Depending on the tile material, you might simply be able to measure and score it with something sharp, like a carbide-tipped pencil, and break it off. Be sure to sand the edge for a smooth installation.

Different types of tile cutters may work best depending on the type of tile you are cutting and the size of your project. There are two main types of tile cutters: manual and electric. Manual tile cutters are quick and easy to use for small projects and softer tile materials, but they can only make straight cuts. Electric tile cutters make light work of big projects and can cut through harder materials.

The tile spacing you should use will depend on the tile and where you’re installing it. Choosing the right tile spacers to maintain a consistent gap between your tiles is tricky. Generally, tile spacing shouldn’t be less than 2 millimeters on walls and 3 millimeters on floors because of stress relief requirements. Getting it wrong can result in uneven tiles and early repairs.