There are standard cutters available to cut the larger tiles. To cut the tiles mark them with a piece of chalk. Tile nippers are also available for small cuts, similar to the ones used to cut fittings around pipes. The edges should be smooth, sanding them with sand paper will help with that.
Installation of wall tiles is as easy as the installation of flooring. If installed correctly the wall tiles may be of long lasting beauty. Ceramic or porcelain makes an attractive back splash behind sinks and stoves, or encasing a bathroom or shower. It is very important to select the right tiles for the bathroom and kitchen walls, because all ceramic tiles do not absorb the same amount of water. So-called "non-vitreous" tiles are the ones that absorb the most water, and this type of tile should not be selected for installing in showers, tubs and sink countertops. "Semi-vitreous" tiles are rated for low absorption, and can be used for splash areas. In this case, porcelain tile, offers great durability and will have a long life in shower applications. Cement backer board is another kind of tiles made from a fiberglass mesh and Portland cement, which is useful against moist water. It is available in 1/2 and 5/8-inch thick sheets (similar to drywall), and is usually sold in 32 or 36-inch wide panels 5 or 8 feet long. It can be installed just like the ceramic tiles and an ordinary knife can cut them and you can snap it at the lines.
