Trimming existing tile on shower wall?
#1
Member
Thread Starter
Trimming existing tile on shower wall?
Hi all,
I have a shower wall with a 1-1/2" square cut out for a hand-held spray fitting. Unfortunately the hose connector which attaches to this cannot fully seat because the fitting is not in the center of the cut-out. I need about 1/4" additional cut out (which as you can see would be trimming a bit of the TOP of the tile just below the fitting).
See photo. Please, what is the correct method and tool for trimming some of the tile while in place?
(Note: I can't move the fitting; it's hard-plumbed behind the wonderboard and rigidly in place. However if I get a 10mm Allen wrench I can at least remove the brass fitting, exposing the nipple and giving myself a little work space.)
Thanks for your help! I have ZERO experience cutting, trimming or even installing tile. This mistake was made by a bath contractor who has disappeared. I really don't want to pull out the tile. I'm also posting in Plumbing forum.

The fitting is practically resting right on top of the tile beneath it. I need a good 1/4 to 1/2 inch gap there.
I have a shower wall with a 1-1/2" square cut out for a hand-held spray fitting. Unfortunately the hose connector which attaches to this cannot fully seat because the fitting is not in the center of the cut-out. I need about 1/4" additional cut out (which as you can see would be trimming a bit of the TOP of the tile just below the fitting).
See photo. Please, what is the correct method and tool for trimming some of the tile while in place?
(Note: I can't move the fitting; it's hard-plumbed behind the wonderboard and rigidly in place. However if I get a 10mm Allen wrench I can at least remove the brass fitting, exposing the nipple and giving myself a little work space.)
Thanks for your help! I have ZERO experience cutting, trimming or even installing tile. This mistake was made by a bath contractor who has disappeared. I really don't want to pull out the tile. I'm also posting in Plumbing forum.

The fitting is practically resting right on top of the tile beneath it. I need a good 1/4 to 1/2 inch gap there.
#2
One thread per topic. This is your only thread on this topic.
I just got done cutting tiles in a kitchen for receptacle installation. I used a RotoZip with a diamond bit. You could also use a Dremel grinder with diamond tile blade.

Dremel diamond bits
I just got done cutting tiles in a kitchen for receptacle installation. I used a RotoZip with a diamond bit. You could also use a Dremel grinder with diamond tile blade.

Dremel diamond bits
gregger77
voted this post useful.
#3
Diamond blade is the key, a small outlay for a single application, dont fall for some type of carbide blade, maybe it will work but you dont want to take the chance!
gregger77
voted this post useful.
#4
The diamond bits are not used often and are expensive. The actual Dremel tool can be used for many things around the house and is definitely a worthwhile investment for a homeowner. I have three or four of them and use them for many repairs.
gregger77
voted this post useful.
#5
I have three or four of them and use them for many repairs.
gregger77
voted this post useful.
#6
Member
Thread Starter
Thanks Gents. Good discussion on tools! I generally agree, most tools are worth the invesment (as the old saying goes, "Do it yourself and the tools are free" not only because of the money you saved vs. a service call, but because you can use them again. -- i.e., once you buy that spanner tool for the tub nut on a washing machine, you're set for life!!)
As it happens, I bought a RotoZip about 15 years ago for a light construction job, used it for cutting panelboard and the like, and thought it was okay (definitely takes some learning to control it well). But then put it on a shelf and there it sits today, busted bit and all.
Fortunately my neighbor owns a Dremel so finally I may just get the chance to test drive one with a diamond cutting wheel on it and safety goggles on me. I will take my time and let you know how it comes out.
If I like it well enough I think this goes on my wish list, because it seems I'm always compromising on jobs that could use a Dremel grinder, polisher, cutter etc.
Thanks again.
As it happens, I bought a RotoZip about 15 years ago for a light construction job, used it for cutting panelboard and the like, and thought it was okay (definitely takes some learning to control it well). But then put it on a shelf and there it sits today, busted bit and all.
Fortunately my neighbor owns a Dremel so finally I may just get the chance to test drive one with a diamond cutting wheel on it and safety goggles on me. I will take my time and let you know how it comes out.
If I like it well enough I think this goes on my wish list, because it seems I'm always compromising on jobs that could use a Dremel grinder, polisher, cutter etc.
Thanks again.
#7
Use your RotoZip. Just buy a bit........ Diamond cutter for RotoZip
Don't forget.... you must wear safety glasses.
Don't forget.... you must wear safety glasses.