Good for a jigsaw on laminate. How and with what to cut laminate - choice of tool and nuances of sawing laminated coverings. Construction and stationery knife

T from who has ever sawed wooden board regular saw or with a hand jigsaw, knows very well how difficult it is to achieve a smooth edge using such tools. And for anyone who has ever had to cut laminate flooring, it is no secret that, armed with an ordinary saw, you cannot lay a laminated floor, or, well, lay it, but you will suffer a lot. Here you need a special tool - a jigsaw. In addition, representatives of the stronger sex usually know that sawing both a wooden board and metal pipe It won't work with the same file. Each material has its own file. So how to cut laminate?

If for a regular floorboard you need a file with a large tooth, then a laminate, like MDF panels, is suitable only for a fine one. Fabric manufacturers have developed a file designed specifically for laminate flooring. Its teeth are characterized by a certain pitch and specific layout, which protects the edge of the laminated board from annoying chips. In addition, the blade has an optimal width for cutting laminate, allowing you to make both straight and curved cuts with extreme accuracy. The file is made of a special material, which, due to its flexibility, retains strength even in the most difficult situations. The world's leading manufacturers are well versed in the needs of their customers. This is why jigsaws with famous names They have an additional set of the most popular files in the sales kit. A special file for laminate is no exception. If you are unlucky and you received your tool without a useful kit, you will have to go to the store and buy the necessary file.

When going to the store to buy files, do not forget to look at what kind of file is used for it. Not every file will suit your instrument. It is not necessary to look for a saw blade of the exact same brand as the jigsaw. The main thing is that the file you choose has the appropriate type of shank. Each jigsaw fits shanks of a certain shape. There are jigsaws that are suitable for files with any shank, but this is only if the power tool is equipped with a universal fastening mechanism. Don't be upset if you don't find a special file in the store. Choose a canvas based on several simple tips. For figured cutting of laminate, select the narrowest and most flexible blade. The teeth should be fine. Such a file will allow you to perform high-quality cuts and will not damage the surface decorative coating. If you don’t need curved cuts, you can choose a wider blade, but be sure to have a fine tooth. Pay attention to saw blades with the tops of the teeth pointing towards reverse side. This trick will help preserve the decorative laminated coating of the board and prevent chipping. If you are unable to buy a saw with a reverse tooth direction, try sawing the panels with their laminated surface facing down. In this case, the front side of the board will not be damaged.

As you can see, everything is quite simple. It’s not difficult to figure out how to cut laminate flooring. Choose the right jigsaw file, and you won’t have to pay a professional to lay the laminate; you can handle this task yourself, although it’s not just a matter of choosing the right file 😉

It is impossible to lay the floor with solid sheets of laminate. There is always a need to cut laminate to obtain the required dimensions. Therefore, in order to avoid unnecessary consumption of material, it is better to determine a list of devices and tools for accurate and waste-free cutting of panels at home before starting work.

Of course, it is impossible to do without waste completely. Therefore, when calculating the amount of laminate, a small margin is included, taking into account that you will have to cut some boards, adjust them to size, and then join them together.

Types of tools for cutting laminate

Due to its structure, laminate can be sawed well with wood tools and is extremely easy to process for craftsmen different levels: from professionals with years of experience to beginners.

A special feature is that the material is cut directly at the installation site. In this case, it is very important to achieve a qualitatively even cut and not spoil the panel.

By contacting specialists with the question of how to cut laminate quickly and efficiently, you can get various tips. After all, each master has his own criteria for selecting a tool, his own characteristics and knowledge of technology, experience gained and natural ingenuity. For one, it is important to work with a lightweight and mobile tool; for another, the issue of connecting to an electrical outlet or manual execution is important. However, everyone agrees on one opinion: laminate cutting must be done with high quality, ensuring a perfect cut.

All laminate cutting tools can be divided into two categories: hand tools and power tools. The advantages of the first category are versatility of application and affordable price. The use of tools of the second group, despite the higher cost and dependence on the location of the connection to the electrical network, can significantly speed up and facilitate the process of installing the coating.

  • hacksaw;
  • jigsaw;
  • circular saw;
  • grinder;
  • special cutter;
  • construction knife;
  • and even an ordinary stationery knife.

Using any tool from the list above with appropriate handling experience will allow you to obtain a high-quality and accurate cut. There is no general or single recommendation on how to cut laminate flooring at home, or what equipment or device to choose in a particular situation. Each master, based on personal practical experience, knowledge and professional training, has his own preferences and “tricks”. It is important to take into account that with any of the chosen methods, you should be guided by folk wisdom: “Measure twice, cut once.”

Let us briefly consider the purpose and operating principles of each type of tool for cutting laminate.

Hacksaw

Let's start with the simplest and most accessible - hand saw woodworking or hacksaw. This is a hand tool that is found in almost every home. A hacksaw requires physical effort and can be used to cut small amounts of material. Its use is not effective at large volumes. In this case, choosing a hacksaw with large teeth can lead to destruction of the decorative surface of the coating lamellas. To prevent such consequences, it is better to use a hacksaw with fine teeth or a hacksaw for metal.

Advice: Before you start cutting, masking tape should be applied to this place, which will prevent chipping at the cut site. It is recommended to lay the board face up.

A hacksaw is not the main tool for cutting laminate for professionals due to low productivity, high physical costs and the danger of damage to the decorative layer of the panel. But in some cases, for small volumes, when it is not practical to use a jigsaw or grinder, a hacksaw may be useful.

A direct alternative to a hacksaw is an electric one. reciprocating saw. Now on the market large selection such a tool. However, an electric saw will not greatly increase the convenience and speed of work. Therefore, in our review we will not dwell on it in detail.

An electric jigsaw is a convenient, simple and very productive tool. In most cases, it takes first place due to its ease of use, ease of use and efficiency of use. Therefore, when looking for solutions to the problem of cutting laminate flooring at home, many users choose it.

Using a jigsaw does not require special training or many years of skill; anyone can successfully handle it. The result will be of high quality, the cut will be even and perfectly smooth, given that the tool operates at high speeds. The main thing in its application is correct selection files for laminate.

Typically, a set with a jigsaw includes several blades designed for processing wood or laminate. If you don't have them, you should take care of purchasing them in advance. The laminate file for a jigsaw has a special shape and a fine tooth pitch. Look for the appropriate labeling on the packaging. Using the wrong file will result in chips appearing on the edges of the cut. Therefore, it is better to cut the panels with a special jigsaw file for laminate. If you can’t find one, you can use a metal blade, but productivity will be slightly reduced.

Important! The markings are made from the reverse side of the panel. To cut with a jigsaw, place the workpiece on a flat, clean surface with the decorative side down. This way, the saw teeth cause less damage to the panel during the cut.

An important advantage of a jigsaw over other types of tools is the ability to make not only straight cuts, but also curved ones. This is very important if it is necessary to lay a laminate floor in places where pipes and communications pass. A jigsaw can easily cut grooves and entries for them.

A circular saw allows you to get a more even cut of laminate than a jigsaw, and at the same time much faster. However, working with such a tool requires a lot of attention and is much more dangerous. Therefore, it is recommended to use a circular saw only for those who have the skills and experience in handling such a tool, or have become familiar with the operating procedure in detail by watching a video.

Typically, a circular saw for laminate is used only by professionals for very large volumes of work. At home, this tool is rarely used due to its high cost, bulkiness and risk of injury.

As with a jigsaw, to cut laminate, a circular saw must be equipped with a disc designed specifically for this procedure. The cut is made face up with smooth movements in the longitudinal or transverse direction.

Corner grinder or in common parlance, the “grinder” is used quite often for cutting laminate. This is an easy to use tool. A clean wood cutting disc is installed on it, which can easily cut a laminate panel.

The workpiece is fixed on a flat plane with the decorative layer facing up. It should be cut slowly, smoothly, without strong pressure and clearly following the marked straight line. Make sure that during the cutting process the blade on the laminate of the grinder does not get stuck or slip in the workpiece. This requires a certain dexterity and skill, so it is better to test your strength and skills on waste before cutting laminate flooring at home.

For many, a grinder is associated with cutting metal. But this power tool great opportunities and a wide range of sizes and powers, which allows it to be classified as a universal tool. A certain part of the craftsmen do not make a different decision when the question of choosing cutting tools arises - they prefer to cut laminate flooring with a grinder, since it is with its help that they cut almost all materials.

When cutting laminated material with a grinder, the cut is perfectly even and smooth. To obtain a surface best quality It is important what kind of disc is used for cutting: for cutting wood, metal, concrete or stone. The right circle will help you achieve the best results.

Important! Before cutting, the workpiece is laid and fixed face up. You should cut smoothly, without strong pressure, and clearly in a straight line. To cut laminate you need to use saw blade on wood with a clean cut.

When working with this tool, large number dust and unpleasant odor burnt wood. Therefore, when choosing an angle grinder, it is not recommended to carry out work indoors: for this it is better to go to open balcony or outside.

Laminate cutter

A guillotine or laminate cutter is highly professional and quite expensive hand tools, intended exclusively for cutting laminate. It does not require skills or physical strength.

Externally, the cutter resembles a guillotine, equipped sharp knife. When a decision needs to be made the right tool, a laminate cutter is usually not the first suggestion, since little is known about this highly professional tool among a wide range of users, despite its effectiveness.

The advantages of the guillotine are:

  • Silence;
  • High speed;
  • No dust;
  • No experience or usage skills required;
  • High quality cut.

The cost of the cutter is relatively expensive, so purchasing such a tool for cutting laminate flooring is advisable and cost-effective only for professionals who are constantly busy laying laminate flooring. If you need to change the floor in two-room apartment, it is hardly worth making a decision to purchase such a specialized device.

Important! The cutter can only be used in the transverse direction.

Construction and stationery knife

Most often, a construction or stationery knife for cutting laminate can be used in situations where it is necessary to trim or trim a small fragment of a board. You can also use a construction knife if you need to cut off a piece of laminate and there is no other tool at hand. To do this, you need to use strong pressure to cut the decorative layer several times along the markings (it will not be possible to completely cut off the fragment like a saw), until a deep mark remains on the surface. Next, you need to place a hammer handle or other stop under the cutting line and break off a piece by pressing on the far edge. The cut can be cleaned with the same knife or sandpaper.

Drill and screwdriver

A drill or screwdriver are not the main tools for laying laminate, but are often used to make cuts for pipes and communications, as well as when installing baseboards and thresholds after laying the laminate.

Features of the laminate cutting process

When starting to lay laminate flooring, you need to know not only how to cut laminate flooring at home, but also how to use the tools correctly. Among the main defining points regarding the features of working with laminate, the following can be noted:

  • Do not use much force when cutting laminate;
  • if the cut is of poor quality, the board should be laid with the damaged side under the baseboard;
  • to obtain an ideal cut, the workpiece should be positioned inside down when working with a grinder and a circular saw, or inside up when working with a jigsaw;
  • Before cutting, check the calculations several times to prevent damage to the materials;
  • Curly cuts should be made using a template for measuring bends, gluing construction tape to the cut site.

Instead of a resume

Each type of tool for laying and cutting laminate flooring at home must meet the following criteria:

  • be sure to be in good working order;
  • be convenient to use;
  • have little weight;
  • ensure the quality of performance of the work assigned to him;
  • inexpensive.

By far the best tool for cutting laminate flooring is a jigsaw. It is universal, convenient, can cut lamellas lengthwise, crosswise and rounded, does not require special skills, is lightweight and not expensive. It is only important to choose the right file.

Follow our advice, and the chosen one cutting tool will make the process of laying laminate simple and high-quality.

The process of cutting laminated flooring, although quite simple, requires compliance with certain rules. To achieve better results, it is recommended to use a power tool with high power. A jigsaw will allow you to cut out parts of various shapes and sizes, and will also prevent the edges of the lamella from fraying.

To make the process of cutting laminate simple and the cut neat, you should adhere to the following rules:

  1. The lamellas should be cut at maximum speed of the power tool.
  2. It is advisable to go through the laminate cutting line in one go. Stopping and slowing down can cause minor unevenness, as well as chipping and other damage to the laminate flooring.
  3. The pendulum mechanism of the jigsaw should be turned off.
  4. When cutting, you must use saw blades for laminate flooring. If the required saw blades are not available, you can use a file with small teeth.
  5. When choosing and purchasing a file, it is important to take into account the shape of the parts being cut. Thin files are ideal for cutting round shapes, and wide blades are great for straight lines.
  6. Reliable fastening of the panels will prevent the appearance of roughness and nicks on the cut.
  7. When arranging the teeth of a jigsaw file, the top of the lamella should be laid face down. Cutting in this way will prevent damage to the laminated layer. In the case where the teeth are located in the opposite direction, the laminate must be cut with the front part facing up.
  8. For best results, press the material along the cut line.

Fast and confident cutting of laminate will ensure the aesthetics of the finished elements, and will also reduce the processing time of the panels.

How to choose a saw blade for cutting laminated panels

Many manufacturers offer laminate files in their product range, which are made from a special bimetallic alloy. They are distinguished by small teeth and sharpness, and also have increased strength and flexibility. The most popular blades for cutting laminate with a jigsaw are blades from the Bosch and DeWALT brands. File Bosch T101B is the standard saw blade for laminated panels. It will provide excellent results when cutting both along and across the lamella.

For cutting shaped parts great solution will become a T119BO file. It is distinguished by a narrow blade and a special shape that prevents the saw blade from getting caught on bends. If you don’t have the required sawing blade at hand, the best way out will be the use of narrow models for metal with fine teeth.

When choosing a saw, it is important to consider the type of shank, which must match the clamping device of the power tool used.

A jigsaw will help you cut out various shaped elements and provide an even cut without chips on the laminated layer. Working with the tool is quite simple, thanks to which even a novice master can cope with the task. The use of special files will make the process of cutting laminate precise and convenient.

It is known that in production the cutting of lamellas is carried out using special machines that are equipped with two files:

  1. The first is called trimming, it is small and rotates in the direction of movement of the part, while removing the bottom layer;
  2. The second one makes the main cut of the board, rotating in the opposite direction.

For such a machine it is always characteristic precise work, which results in chip-free lamellas with right angles. But what if you don’t have such a tool when you are laying laminated flooring at home? How to cut laminate? Achievement maximum result perhaps even in everyday life if you use the “right” devices.

How to cut laminate flooring at home?

You can choose one of the most popular and available options. Before you pay for a device, find out more about its capabilities and nature of operation:

  • Hacksaw. You can't say what it is modern version, but in some cases it turns out to be very useful. The hacksaw never fails. For better results, it is better to use a hacksaw for metal or wood with a fine tooth. Start cutting from the back of the panel to prevent possible chips on the surface of the board;
  • Bulgarian. This is an angle grinder with a metal disc. How to cut laminate correctly? Secure the lamella and slowly lower the angle grinder so that it does not break out of your hands and become stuck. Be prepared for what will appear during work bad smell due to heating of the disk;
  • cutter. Here is another popular device for cutting laminated material. It allows you to cut boards quickly and efficiently. The cutter can effortlessly cut both thin and thick panels. Such an ideal result cannot be achieved either using an angle grinder or using a jigsaw. This is a device with a sharp blade that can be easily moved using a handle. This mechanism works very quietly, without noise and dust and does not require power supply;
  • circular saw. What saw to use to cut laminate? This is an option for neat cutting, equipped with a special disc. Place the board face up on a hard, flat surface, securely fasten it, and mark the cutting line. Then smoothly lower the grinder disk and gradually move it along the intended line without getting stuck in the board. This option requires skills in working with a circular saw, as well as a lot of patience. But the advantage is high-quality and fast results. Are there any disadvantages? Yes, if the downside is the smell of burnt wood that appears during the sawing process;
  • electric jigsaw. This is a fairly effective but simple option. Make sure the jigsaw is equipped with a special wood attachment. Before starting work, you need to fix the lamella to the floor. Turn on the device and set it to high speed to protect the material from possible chips. Your movements should be smooth.

! At least two people should operate the jigsaw.


I would like to pay special attention to laminate files, which are used in conjunction with a jigsaw:

  1. The goal is to cut quickly: if you need to cut many boards at once in a short period, it is better to choose the option with a large tooth. The fact is that the larger the tooth, the faster the work will proceed. The only negative is that the cut will be less accurate and the cut will not be smooth. For this purpose, as a rule, they buy a tool marked T101D, since it is suitable even for a thickness of 75 mm. For 100 mm choose 244D, 200 mm - 344D;
  2. The goal is a clean cut: here you need to use the T101B option. It is characterized by a smaller tooth, which results in a smoother cut. In this case there are no chips. Of course, with such a file you can cut even 75 mm, but it will take several times longer.

The laminate file is equipped with a reverse tooth, which, when compared with other options, is directed in the opposite direction. Why is this necessary? This is done so that chips do not form on the front side of the lamella and the appearance does not deteriorate.

! Such boards can be easily sawn with a bladesmall spread and moderate size of teeth. At the same time, the speed of movement of the jigsaw should also be moderate. This way the tool will not get stuck or tear the edges.

How to cut laminate correctly: straight and curved cuts


How to make straight cuts?

Method 1. You can use a hacksaw or circular saw with maximum number teeth to avoid chipping. First make a mark and mark the part of the board that you are going to cut. This can be done either with chalk or with a pencil. It is very easy to erase the chalk afterwards. Well, then simply cut the lamella along the marked line.

Method 2. You can also use a jigsaw. This option is several times simpler than the previous one. Attach the guide to the device, and then guide it over the edge of the workpiece. In this case, the movement of the file will be smooth relative to the edge.

! Are you working with a thin lamella? Be prepared for chips to appear on its front part. The fact is that in the first option the tool will move upward. To prevent this from happening, you can place the workpiece face down. Another solution is to use anti-slip inserts.

How to make curved cuts?


How to properly cut laminate along a curve? For such suitable for work only a jigsaw with a special blade with very fine teeth for laminate floors or even a standard blade. Special option better, as it helps to cut with the pattern up and without chipping.

  1. First, prepare the desired template from paper or cardboard. It is needed in order to calculate the cut and maintain the integrity of the board;
  2. attach the template and circle desired drawing;
  3. cut out the design and reattach the template to ensure its accuracy;
  4. now simply trace the sample along the contour on the surface of the lamella;
  5. make a cut. If you are using standard canvas, lay the board pattern down and attach the template with the bottom side up. Only hold the jigsaw vertically. If you need to cut with the front side, stick a strip of masking tape on the cut lines so that you don't have any chips when cutting. Then measure over the tape the lines along which you are going to cut the lamella. For this purpose, a special fabric intended for such flooring is used.

! Sometimes the template needs to be applied several times to get a sample of the desired shape. In this case, it is important not to rush: take the proper time to make the template, and then you will spend less time and effort on cutting the boards. 2


Tool requirements

  • have a compact size;
  • be light in weight;
  • be easy to use;
  • hacksaw;
  • cutter;
  • circular saw;
  • jigsaw

Hacksaw

The laminate should be marked before cutting. Before sawing the laminate, the required length is measured on the panel and a cutting line is drawn. To obtain a better edge, file the bottom layer from the reverse side

Electric jigsaw

Professional cutter

The tool works without noise and dust. The device allows you to cut laminate quickly and efficiently. The operating principle of the cutter is similar to that of a guillotine.

How to cut laminated chipboard without chipping

The knife blade is lowered onto the panel using the handle, cutting off the excess in one motion. The cut is perfectly smooth.

Circular saw

Formation of dust and noise;
. the smell of burnt wood;
. presence of skill.

When using any tool to cut laminate, it is important to correctly calculate the force applied.

Excessive pressure can lead to the formation of cracks or chips on the surface of the panel. Competent calculation required quantity material will allow you to cut the laminate with minimal waste.

Boards and timber are one of the main building materials. But not everyone has the financial means to purchase ready-made boards. In such situations, one of the solutions is to independently harvest wood on a plot taken from the forestry.

The advantage of a chainsaw as a tool for sawing logs

You can saw a log using a sawmill, gas or electric saw and additional accessories. When choosing one of these tools, you should consider the amount of work ahead. The cost of the cheapest stationary sawmill along with all components is 150 thousand rubles. A chainsaw is much cheaper. It is more convenient than an electric saw for the following reasons:

  • Electricity is not required to operate the tool - this makes it possible to use a chainsaw on plots.
  • It is more powerful compared to an electric saw.
  • It starts smoothly and allows you to conveniently adjust the speed, which reduces the likelihood of a chain break.
  • The inertial brake operates faster than that of an electric saw.
  • Long working time without interruption – up to one hour.
  • Can be used in conditions of high humidity.

Types of working attachments

When sawing logs with a chainsaw, various attachments are used.

  • Nozzle for longitudinal sawing. It is used for sawing logs lengthwise, the process takes place in a horizontal position. After work, the master receives the same thickness of the product. Finished materials are subjected to a drying process, after which the boards are used in construction.

    How to cut laminate

    By appearance the device is a frame small sizes, it is attached to the tire on each side.

  • Drum debarker (debarker). With the help of such an attachment it is easy to dissolve the log; it works due to a V-belt drive. Attached to belts on both sides, special pulleys are used for this. The speed of rotation of the shaft depends on the size of the pulleys, so the performance of the attachment is easy to change. This technology forces the master to carefully monitor each stage of the process; some specialists use an assistant during this cutting. But this option requires increased security measures.
  • Sawing with a lightweight attachment. The method is not very productive, but is used quite often. The element is fastened on one side, but the workpieces are slightly uneven. Such materials are necessary for the construction of sheds or fences.

Features of sawing using a homemade tool

You can easily saw a log into boards using a self-made tool. It's easy to make. To do this you need to do the following:

  • As a support, you need to use a frame from a school desk or a pipe with a cross-section in the form of a square, its optimal size is 20x20, more is allowed.
  • It is necessary to build two clamps, mount a cross member with two holes for tie bolts at one end, and make a protrusion for the tire in the middle.
  • To cut logs longitudinally into boards, you need to make support frame, its width should be seven to eight centimeters less than its length.
  • Then two parts ten centimeters long are welded to both sides, holes are made for the bolts, and a handle is attached in the middle for ease of operation.
  • Then you need to insert the clamps into the grooves, install the tire, and secure everything carefully.

Work with homemade instrument It’s not difficult, for this you will need goats, they will serve as a support. In addition, you need to prepare a metal strip or board to use as a guide. A log is placed underneath and the required height for work is set.

The procedure for performing preparatory work

To cut a log lengthwise, you need to perform the following sequence of actions:

  • Take two straight boards and attach one to the other at right angles. The result is a strong guide line.
  • To support the manufactured ruler, you need to make stops from boards.
  • Moving the trunks must be done using a tilter.
  • The log should be placed on a comfortable base.
  • You need to secure the frame to the chainsaw bar using nuts.
  • The supports of the leading ruler must be attached to the ends of the log, checking the horizontal position with a level.
  • Self-tapping screws must be used to secure all brackets and structural elements. Nails are not suitable for these purposes, since they are difficult to remove in the future without causing damage to the structural parts.
  • The leading ruler needs to be attached to the supports using staples and its height adjusted taking into account that the cut will not go along it, but approximately one centimeter higher.
  • The log needs to be rotated and the second board secured so that it rests on the ground and supports the log.

Procedure for performing basic work

  • Now you need to start the chainsaw and make the first cut.
  • Next, you need to free the log from the stops and boards and attach a guide ruler to the cut surface of the log in the direction of the next cut. The ruler is attached directly to the surface or to the ends of the log using supports. The second cut is made perpendicular to the first cut.
  • The log needs to be turned and secured with a board against the ground.
  • A ruler is not required to perform the following steps. One of the cut sides serves as a guide.
  • It is necessary to adjust the thickness of the cut on the frame and saw off the log from the other side so that you get a beam with bark remaining on only one side.
  • This beam must be turned over and secured so that the attachment point of the fixing board is as low as possible.
  • Then you need to adjust the frame to the required thickness of the board and saw the timber into boards.

Safety rules when performing work

  • Should not be used circular saw without protective casing.
  • It is necessary to wear headphones, gloves, glasses, thick clothing and a respirator.
  • You should not pour fuel into a hot tool tank; you need to wait until it cools down.
  • Children should not be allowed to be present at the work site.
  • It is necessary to start the tool on the ground with the chain brake engaged, which must be released only before starting to cut.
  • You should always have a first aid kit on hand.
  • When working, you need to hold the chainsaw by the arc handle, moving it forward along the guide. You should not put too much pressure on the chainsaw - it should move freely.
  • Right-handed people should place the log on their right side, left-handed people should place it on their left.

Instagram

The choice of flooring is largely determined by quality and price. In this regard, laminate has the most acceptable ratio. The material owes its popularity not only to practicality, but also to ease of installation. If you have the tools, anyone can install flooring. Accordingly, the question arises - how to cut laminate?

Tool requirements

To lay the flooring, the material must be taken 10-15% more than the area of ​​the room. The panels will need to not only be joined, but also cut. To adjust the dimensions, use a hand or electric tool. When used at home it should:

  • have a compact size;
  • be light in weight;
  • be easy to use;
  • make an even cut without chipping.

The last characteristic is key for many repair enthusiasts when choosing a method. But its importance is somewhat exaggerated. The presence of chips up to 5 millimeters will hide the baseboard.

Both specialists and home craftsmen use:

  • hacksaw;
  • cutter;
  • circular saw;
  • jigsaw

Hacksaw

Since the material consists of sawdust, it is quite easy to saw by hand. Use hacksaws for wood or metal. It is important that the hacksaw has small, sharp teeth. This will allow you to cut the panels without chipping or scoring. In case of minor damage to the edges, the ends will be covered by the plinth.

The laminate should be marked before cutting.

How to cut laminate?

Before sawing the laminate, the required length is measured on the panel and a cutting line is drawn. To obtain a better edge, file the bottom layer from the reverse side

Electric jigsaw

Everyone determines what to use to cut laminate based on the availability of tools. But, if there are no devices, the most practical would be to purchase a jigsaw. It will allow you to cut panels in all directions, including various shapes. Jigsaw is lighter circular saw, smaller in size than a cutter, more convenient and faster than a hacksaw. Anyone can master a jigsaw, since it does not require special skills.

For a high-quality cut, it is necessary that the jigsaw file have the teeth in the opposite direction. Usually a blade for cutting laminate is included in the kit. To avoid defects, markings are applied on the back side of the panel. Protective film It is better to trim with a stationery knife. The board is fixed face down and sawed off.

How to cut laminate flooring with a jigsaw without chipping:

An electric jigsaw will allow you to cut laminate flooring with a minimum amount of dust. The jigsaw has a special container bag for collecting sawdust. For curly carving, narrower blades should be used. And masking tape glued to the front of the panel before sawing is guaranteed to prevent chipping.

Professional cutter

The tool works without noise and dust. The device allows you to cut laminate quickly and efficiently. The operating principle of the cutter is similar to that of a guillotine. The knife blade is lowered onto the panel using the handle, cutting off the excess in one motion. The cut is perfectly smooth.

Using the cutter does not require effort or skill, which allows you to lay large areas of flooring. The cutter is especially in demand among professional repair teams and perfectionists. The disadvantages of the device are high cost and limited cutting, because cutting can only be done across the panel.

Circular saw

Despite the fact that laminate is easy to saw by hand, using a power tool makes the task much easier. Sometimes a hand-held circular saw is used for these purposes. Like a hacksaw, use blades with fine teeth. Before sawing the laminate, markings are applied to its reverse side, since the movement of the disc occurs from bottom to top. The board is securely fastened to a workbench or table, leaving the cut part hanging. Then the unnecessary piece is smoothly sawed off along the marking line.

When using a grinder, the laminate is placed face up, since the movement of the teeth occurs from top to bottom. This will prevent the appearance of cracks and chips. Which side to cut the laminate from determines the direction of movement of the teeth. Disadvantages of cutting with a circular saw include:

Formation of dust and noise;
. the smell of burnt wood;
. presence of skill.

When using any tool to cut laminate, it is important to correctly calculate the force applied. Excessive pressure can lead to the formation of cracks or chips on the surface of the panel. Proper calculation of the required amount of material will allow you to cut the laminate with minimal waste.

How to properly cut laminate, watch the video:

About choosing a tool
Knife
Hacksaw for metal
Jigsaw
Circular saw
What does a professional use?

Laminate – flooring, which is increasingly found in every home. Its installation always requires adjustment in length and width, because the slats should be laid in accordance with the rule brickwork. Accordingly, this brings up the question: “How to cut laminate flooring at home?”

What you need to know about a jigsaw and file for high-quality cutting of laminate

From this article you will learn about different instruments and methods of adjustment using them.

About choosing a tool

Knife

Hacksaw for metal

Jigsaw

  1. Draw the lamella.

Circular saw

What does a professional use?

Operating principle of the machine:

Conclusion

About choosing a tool
Knife
Hacksaw for metal
Jigsaw
Circular saw
What does a professional use?

About choosing a tool

Laminate cutting must be done well so that the cut line is straight and even and the edge remains intact. All these points are quite easy to accomplish by choosing the appropriate tool for cutting laminate. Example the right choice may be due to the fact that not every person can handle a professional tool, so he should use more simple tools, with whom he will do this work more carefully.

Knife

The simplest tool that absolutely everyone has, but it is not the best solution. A laminate knife is only suitable if you want to make a small cutout for a ledge in the wall. While it is still possible to cut the lamella across, doing it lengthwise is almost impossible, because you will spend a lot of time and effort, and the cut will turn out to be of poor quality and crooked.

If you decide to use a knife, check its sharpness, because with a dull sheath you will make many more mistakes in your work than with a sharp one.

How and with what to cut laminate flooring - choosing a tool and the nuances of sawing laminated flooring

Hacksaw for metal

A hacksaw is something that will be beneficial for cutting laminate flooring, because the tool is one that is found in almost every home and you don’t have to run to the store.

A hacksaw for metal is very convenient for making small cuts due to the fact that:

  • Laminate can be easily cut by hand;
  • The fine tooth of the hacksaw ensures no chipping;
  • If you do damage the edge, you can easily cover the defects with plinth.

Remember that a hacksaw for laminate is only suitable if the amount of work is small and there is no other tool at hand; also, if you do not have a hacksaw at hand, it is better to buy a jigsaw in the store, which will be mentioned below.

Sawing should be carried out according to the following instructions:

  1. First, make clear markings on the lamella, remembering that it should be bright, because when sawing it will be covered with a thin layer of dust.
  2. To get a quality edge, saw the sheet with its face up.
  3. Do not apply much force to the tool so as not to damage the edge being finished.

Jigsaw

This is a more expensive tool, but choosing it is the best answer to the question of what is best for cutting laminate flooring. A jigsaw is worth buying only if the amount of work is too large to cut everything by hand, or if you don’t mind the money to purchase it.

How to cut laminate flooring with a jigsaw:

  1. Install a reverse fine tooth blade into the jigsaw. If the canvas comes complete with expensive and quality tool, then you can use it, otherwise, please purchase it separately.
  2. Draw the lamella.
  3. In this case, the lamellas need to be sawn, placed face down and secured to a hard surface.

Another advantage of a jigsaw is that it can cut not only in a straight line.

Circular saw

A circular saw is not something you can use to cut laminate at any time, however, if you are the happy owner of such equipment, then feel free to start sawing:

  1. Place a fine-toothed disc onto the shaft.
  2. Draw a cutting line on the slats.
  3. If the cut is made along the plank, then set the width on the machine.
  4. Saw the lamella by pushing in front of you.

The main advantage of a circular saw is its speed, which allows you to cut a lamella lengthwise in a matter of seconds, however, due to the dimensions that you can see in the photo, it is rarely used, in addition, you cannot cut certain pieces of laminate with it, for example, under a column or ledge in a wall.

What does a professional use?

In any business, it is easy to distinguish an amateur from a professional, not only looking at the speed and quality of work, but also the tool used. The same thing happens with laying laminate flooring. Professionals use a laminate cutter, with which they make cuts in a very short period of time.

As you can see in the photo, this cutter is manual machine, equipped with a sharp blade, which is fixed to the base. The blade is easily adjustable different types cuts. Using the machine, you can cut lamellas along, across and at various angles, without spending much effort and electricity.

Operating principle of the machine:

  1. The lamella is placed on the machine support in a horizontal position.
  2. The cutter adjusts to the markings.
  3. The builder applies force to the handle and the blade gradually cuts the lamella.

A professional machine makes it very easy to cut laminate without chipping, so everyone who lays laminate tries to purchase one.

Conclusion

You can use any of the tools presented, but remember that the most important thing in cutting laminate is the quality of the edge. Remember the advice: to make as few chips and irregularities as possible, do not apply much force to the sawing tool, because this will cause the tool to pull out fragments from the body of the material rather than cut them out.

Now you know all the cutting methods, so you can decide for yourself the question of how to cut laminate flooring.

About choosing a tool
Knife
Hacksaw for metal
Jigsaw
Circular saw
What does a professional use?

Laminate is a floor covering that is increasingly found in every home. Its installation always requires adjustment in length and width, because the slats should be laid in accordance with the rules of brickwork. Accordingly, this brings up the question: “How to cut laminate flooring at home?” In this article you will learn about different tools and how to make adjustments using them.

About choosing a tool

Laminate cutting must be done well so that the cut line is straight and even and the edge remains intact. All these points are quite easy to accomplish by choosing the appropriate tool for cutting laminate. An example of the right choice is the fact that not every person can handle a professional tool, so he should use simpler tools with which he will do this work more accurately.

Knife

The simplest tool that absolutely everyone has, but it is not the best solution.

What is the best way to cut laminate?

A laminate knife is only suitable if you want to make a small cutout for a ledge in the wall. While it is still possible to cut the lamella across, it is almost impossible to do it lengthwise, because you will spend a lot of time and effort, and the cut will turn out to be of poor quality and crooked.

If you decide to use a knife, check its sharpness, because with a dull sheath you will make many more mistakes in your work than with a sharp one.

Hacksaw for metal

A hacksaw is something that will be beneficial for cutting laminate flooring, because the tool is one that is found in almost every home and you don’t have to run to the store.

A hacksaw for metal is very convenient for making small cuts due to the fact that:

  • Laminate can be easily cut by hand;
  • The fine tooth of the hacksaw ensures no chipping;
  • If you do damage the edge, you can easily cover the defects with plinth.

Remember that a hacksaw for laminate is only suitable if the amount of work is small and there is no other tool at hand; also, if you do not have a hacksaw at hand, it is better to buy a jigsaw in the store, which will be mentioned below.

Sawing should be carried out according to the following instructions:

  1. First, make clear markings on the lamella, remembering that it should be bright, because when sawing it will be covered with a thin layer of dust.
  2. To get a quality edge, saw the sheet with its face up.
  3. Do not apply much force to the tool so as not to damage the edge being finished.

Jigsaw

This is a more expensive tool, but choosing it is the best answer to the question of what is best for cutting laminate flooring. A jigsaw is worth buying only if the amount of work is too large to cut everything by hand, or if you don’t mind the money to purchase it.

How to cut laminate flooring with a jigsaw:

  1. Install a reverse fine tooth blade into the jigsaw. If the blade comes with an expensive and high-quality tool, then you can use it, otherwise purchase it separately.
  2. Draw the lamella.
  3. In this case, the lamellas need to be sawn, placed face down and secured to a hard surface.

Another advantage of a jigsaw is that it can cut not only in a straight line.

Circular saw

A circular saw is not something you can use to cut laminate at any time, however, if you are the happy owner of such equipment, then feel free to start sawing:

  1. Place a fine-toothed disc onto the shaft.
  2. Draw a cutting line on the slats.
  3. If the cut is made along the plank, then set the width on the machine.
  4. Saw the lamella by pushing in front of you.

The main advantage of a circular saw is its speed, which allows you to cut a lamella lengthwise in a matter of seconds, however, due to the dimensions that you can see in the photo, it is rarely used, in addition, you cannot cut certain pieces of laminate with it, for example, under a column or ledge in a wall.

What does a professional use?

In any business, it is easy to distinguish an amateur from a professional, not only looking at the speed and quality of work, but also the tool used. The same thing happens with laying laminate flooring. Professionals use a laminate cutter, with which they make cuts in a very short period of time.

As you can see in the photo, this cutter is a manual machine equipped with a sharp blade, which is fixed to the base. The blade is easily adjustable for different types of cuts. Using the machine, you can cut lamellas along, across and at various angles, without spending much effort and electricity.

Operating principle of the machine:

  1. The lamella is placed on the machine support in a horizontal position.
  2. The cutter adjusts to the markings.
  3. The builder applies force to the handle and the blade gradually cuts the lamella.

A professional machine makes it very easy to cut laminate without chipping, so everyone who lays laminate tries to purchase one.

Conclusion

You can use any of the tools presented, but remember that the most important thing in cutting laminate is the quality of the edge. Remember the advice: to make as few chips and irregularities as possible, do not apply much force to the sawing tool, because this will cause the tool to pull out fragments from the body of the material rather than cut them out.

Now you know all the cutting methods, so you can decide for yourself the question of how to cut laminate flooring.