Get step-by-step instructions on how to cut laminate flooring to size, plus expert tips on the best tools to use and how to avoid common mistakes.
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Tools
In order to cut laminate flooring, you will need a few tools. You will need a saw, measuring tape, a straight edge, and a chalk line. You will also need something to cut the laminate with such as a jigsaw or circular saw. You will want to make sure that you have a sharp blade to avoid any chipping.
Jigsaw
A jigsaw is a great tool to have when you need to make curved or irregular cuts in laminate flooring. It’s also relatively easy to use, as long as you have a steady hand. Here’s how to do it:
1. Start by measuring and marking your cut line on the laminate plank. Use a straightedge to draw a line if you can, as this will make it easier to follow with the jigsaw.
2. Clamp the laminate plank to a work surface so it doesn’t move around while you’re cutting.
3. Fit a fine-tooth blade into your jigsaw and turn it on. Gently guide the blade along the marked line, following it as best you can.
4. Once you’ve cut through the entire plank, turn off the jigsaw and unclamp the piece of laminate. You may need to use a sanding block or file to smooth out any rough edges from your cut.
Pencil
A pencil is one of the first things you’ll need to start your project. Pencils are used for a variety of tasks, such as drawing lines on your laminate boards to indicate where you need to make cuts. It’s important to have a good quality pencil so that your lines are clear and easy to see. Any type of pencil will work for this project, but a mechanical pencil with fine lead is ideal.
T-bar
A T-bar is a specialized type of cutter used to cut laminate flooring boards. It is a handheld tool that resembles a small, handheld saw. The blade of the T-bar is inserted into the pre-cut grooves on the laminate boards and then pulled along the length of the board to make the cut.
Pry bar
A pry bar is a tool used to manually force two objects apart. It is also sometimes called a crowbar, although that term technically refers to a different type of tool. A pry bar is generally a metal rod with a flattened end that is inserted into a small opening. The other end of the pry bar is then used to lever the two objects apart, using the fulcrum created by the flattened end.
Hammer
Before using a hammer, it is important to inspect the tool for any damage. If the tool is damaged, it could break and cause serious injury. To use a hammer, hold the handle with one hand and strike the head of the hammer with the other hand.
Chalk line
A chalk line or marker line is a temporary line made on a surface with a marking instrument. The line indicates a straight path between two points and is often used as a reference line when doing layouts, installations, or measurements. It is created by snapping a chalk-coated string or cord against the surface, which leaves a chalk mark in its wake.
Steps
Home improvement stores sell laminate flooring in a variety of wood grain styles. The product consists of several tongue-and-groove pieces that fit together snugly. Because it is a floating floor that is not nailed or glued to the subfloor, you can install it over existing flooring.
Cut along the wall
1.Start by using a utility knife to score the laminate along the wall. You want to make a deep enough line that the flooring will snap easily when you bend it, but be careful not to cut too deeply and damage the subfloor.
2.Once you’ve scored the entire length of the wall, use a pry bar to gently lift the flooring up. Work slowly and be careful not to break or damage the laminate.
3.Once you’ve pried up a section of flooring, use a saw to cut through any remaining tongues or grooves. Be sure to wear protective gear, such as gloves and a mask, when working with power tools.
4.Repeat these steps until all of the laminate has been removed from around the perimeter of the room.
Cut doorjambs
In order to cut doorjambs, you need to use a fine-toothed blade. You also need to make sure that you are using the correct cutting tool. Depending on the type of laminate flooring you are installing, you may need to use a jigsaw, circular saw, or router.
1. Measure the doorjamb and mark the cutting line with a pencil.
2. Insert the blade of the cutting tool into the doorjamb at the marked line.
3. Cut along the marked line, being careful not to damage the doorjamb or flooring material.
4. Repeat steps 1-3 for each doorjamb in your installation area.
Make curved cuts
Cutting laminate boards to fit around curved obstacles such as pipes, doorways, and Columns is one of the more difficult aspects of do-it-yourself laminate installation. It’s often necessary to make several test cuts before getting the hang of it. The following steps will help you make a clean, curved cut in your laminate boards.
1. Mark the desired curve on the underside of the laminate board with a pencil. For best results, use a flexible measuring tape or string to draw your curves.
2. Cut along the marked line with a jigsaw, using a fine-toothed blade designed for cutting laminate flooring. Be sure to support the offcuts as you work to prevent them from breaking.
3. Trim any rough edges off of the cut board with a sharp utility knife. Be sure to wear gloves and eye protection when working with sharp tools.
4. Fit the trimmed board into place, and check that the curve is clean and precise. Make any necessary adjustments, and then proceed with installing your laminate flooring according to manufacturer’s instructions
Finish the cuts
Make sure all the cuts are tight to the wall. If necessary, use a handsaw to make any final adjustments to the pieces so they fit snugly against the wall. If you’re installing over a concrete subfloor, make sure any expansion joints or cracks in the concrete are covered with an expansion joint cover before you start laying the flooring.
