How to Cut Carpet Tiles

Carpet tiles are a versatile flooring that is much easier to move and store than carpet rolls. But if you’re performing a wall-to-wall installation with carpet tiles, you’ll need to cut them to fit the space. Understanding how to cut carpet tiles will help you perform a successful installation.

How to Cut Carpet Tiles

The process of cutting carpet tiles is generally simple, but the exact tools you’ll need and the process that you’ll follow will depend on the type of carpet tiles you’re using. We’ve highlighted each of the most common types of tiles available and how to cut carpet squares of each type.

Plastic Base Carpet Tiles

Plastic base carpet tiles, like the Carpet Tiles Modular Squares, can be cut with a power saw:

1. Measure the remaining space between the tile and the wall.


2. Mark where you want to make the cut on the tile with a pen or marker.


3. Draw a line across the tile with a straight edge.


4. Use a power saw to cut the line that you’ve drawn.

Foam Backed Carpet Tiles

When you’re working with foam-backed carpet tiles, like the Royal Interlocking Carpet Tiles:

1. Measure the remaining distance between the tile and the wall.


2. Mark where you want to make the cut on the back of the tile with a pen or marker.


3. Use a straight edge as your guide and make a series of shallow scores with a sharp utility knife.


4. Continue to make shallow scores until you cut through the tile.

Rubber Backed Carpet Tiles

For rubber-backed carpet tiles, like the Waterhog Carpet Tile, you’ll need to make a series of shallow scores with a utility knife:

1. Measure the remaining distance between the tile and the wall.


2. Mark where you want to make the cut on the back of the tile with a pen or marker.


3. Use a straight edge as your guide and make a series of shallow scores with a sharp utility knife.


4. Continue to make shallow scores until you cut through the tile.

Carpet Tiles with Peel and Stick Backing

Carpet tiles with peel and stick backing, like the Smart Transformations Crochet Carpet Tile, are designed for an easy DIY installation and eliminate the need for separate adhesive.

1. Measure the remaining distance between the tile and the wall.


2. Mark where you want to make the cut on the back of the tile with a pen or marker.


3. Leave the protective backing in place.


4. Use a straight edge as your guide and make a series of shallow scores with a sharp utility knife.


5. Continue to make shallow scores until you cut through the tile.

Carpet Tiles with FriXion Pads

Carpet tiles like the LCT Plush Luxury Carpet Tile feature a built-in waterproof backing. You’ll need to cut through the backing and the tile when cutting it to fit.

1. Measure the remaining distance between the tile and the wall.


2. Mark where you want to make the cut on the back of the tile with a pen or marker.


3. Use a straight edge as your guide and make a series of shallow scores with a sharp utility knife.


4. Continue to make shallow scores until you cut through the tile.

Carpet Tiles With StayTac Backing

Tiles like the Etruscan Carpet Tile have a StayTac backing and require a slightly different cutting process for a precision trim:

1. Align the tile that you need to cut against a wall so that it overlaps the last tile you’ve installed.


2. Use a razor knife to trace the edge where the tile overlaps the last full tile.


3. Cut through the tile.


4. Remove the waste piece and place the tile into the space to install it.

Additional Tips for a Successful Carpet Tile Installation

If you’re wondering, “How do you cut carpet tiles?” start by reviewing the instructions provided by your tile’s manufacturer. There are different methods used to cut various tile types, and following the instructions correctly will give you the best results. The instructions will also ensure you’re prepared with the right tools.


To cut to fit a space, like when you’re working around corners or doors, always take the time to measure the tile two or three times to ensure you’ll be making the correct cut. Use a straight edge to make sure that your lines are correct, and always be careful when you’re making cuts.

It’s a great idea to lay the flooring out before you fasten anything down. That layout will let you spot any potential issues, such as tiles aligned the wrong way, and correct them before you commit to installing the tiles. It will also ensure you cut the correct tiles in the correct areas.

Buy Your Carpet Tiles from Greatmats

At Greatmats, we have an excellent selection of carpet tiles in many different styles and designs. Our customer service team would be happy to help you determine which carpet tile is best for your project and for your installation plans.