How To Cut Laminate Flooring
Modern laminate is durable, easy to maintain, and looks fantastic. But before you can enjoy a perfectly finished floor, you'll likely need to make a few cuts to size those planks perfectly. Not to worry - cutting laminate flooring is simple when you have the right gear and techniques. We'll walk you through it step-by-step so you can custom-fit those planks like an expert.
What You Need To Cut Laminate Flooring
Installing your laminate flooring doesn't require many tools. But having the right gear for cutting will make life much easier! Here's what you'll need on hand:
- Tape Measure - For precise measurements
- Pencil - To mark cutting lines
- Stanley Knife - For scoring planks prior to snapping
- Jigsaw - For cutting holes for pipes or intricate cuts
- Circular Saw/Chop Saw - For straight cuts along planks
- Safety Gear - Glasses and masks to keep you safe from debris
When choosing saws, go for sharp blades designed for smooth, debris-free cuts in laminates. This will give you neat and tidy results.
Cutting Methods For Laminate Flooring
There are a few tried and true ways to cut laminate flooring cleanly. Let's review the top methods:
Snap By Hand
Many laminate planks can be snapped by hand once scored with a Stanley knife along the cut line. Simply flip the plank over and snap downwards for a clean break right along that scoreline. Easy!
Circular Saw
For straight cuts along longer laminate planks, a circular saw is ideal. Be sure to set the depth only deep enough to cut through the plank to avoid marking your subfloor. Hold the plank securely and guide the saw gently along your marked line.
Jigsaw
Intricate cuts like openings for pipes are best made with a jigsaw. Secure your laminate plank, mark your cutout, and drill a starter hole if needed before carefully guiding your jigsaw blade along the lines. Slow and steady gives the cleanest cuts here!
Handsaw
A classic handsaw can also be used for detailed cuts on our Uniclic flooring or other waterproof laminate flooring. Secure planks properly and patiently follow your cut lines for smooth results.
No matter which saw you wield, keep dust at bay with sweeping to keep your subfloor in tip-top shape for plank installation.
Tips For Cutting Laminate Floorboards
Follow these laminate-cutting tips and tricks for flawless results:
- Double-check measurements before cutting
- Use painter’s tape to protect planks from shoe scuffs
- Work slowly and gently for debris-free cuts
- Make multiple lighter passes if needed
- Ensure proper ventilation & wear a mask
- Inspect each plank post-cut to confirm the accuracy
Patience and care pay off for tighter seams, easier installation, and a perfect finished floor.
Cut With Care For Beautiful New Floors
Installing your dream laminate flooring is oh-so-easy when you measure mindfully and saw skilfully. Remember to arm yourself with the right cutting tools and techniques for the job and then cut those customisable planks with care. Precision and patience will give you long-lasting, watertight joints for a beautiful floor.
For more advice on choosing the perfect laminate flooring for your home or expert installation guides, contact our team today!
