Buzz
Vinyl plank flooring typically arrives in pre-cut sections, but you may need to customize some pieces to fit the specific dimensions of your room. There are two primary methods for cutting, depending on the part of the vinyl plank you're working with. Scoring and snapping is ideal for smaller cuts, while a jigsaw is useful for longer cuts. Remember to always wear protective eyewear when cutting materials and handle power tools with caution.
Key Considerations
- Use a tape measure or framing square to accurately measure your cuts, and double-check your measurements before proceeding.
- For small cuts, simply score halfway through the material with a utility knife, then flip the flooring and snap off the piece using your knee for leverage.
- Secure your flooring in place with a clamp before using a jigsaw, ensuring the saw's teeth are facing away from you, and proceed with slow, careful cutting.
Step-by-Step Guide
Determining Your Cut Length
Utilize a tape measure to gauge your cut length. While a cloth measuring tape suffices, a self-retracting tape measure proves more convenient, featuring a metal lip to anchor one end to your flooring. Position the metal lip at the desired cut point, extend the tape measure to your target location, and ascertain the required length from the printed measurements on the tape.
- Alternatively, opt for a foldable ruler for precise measurements, as it snaps into place, ensuring a straight edge.
Ensure precise 90-degree cuts with a framing square. This triangular metal tool guarantees accurate 90-degree measurements. Align the framing square flush against the plank, anchoring the flared base at the plank's bottom. Adjust the angle by sliding it along the plank's edge.
- A framing square is sometimes referred to as a carpenter square.
Indicate the cutting section using a grease marker or carpentry pencil. With the ruler or framing square in position, mark the cutting section with your marker or pencil. Make precise marks or draw the cutting line based on your preference.
- If working with darker vinyl plank colors, opt for white chalk instead of a carpentry pencil.
Verify your markings for accuracy. Remember the adage 'measure twice, cut once.' Double-check your measurements to prevent errors. You cannot reattach material cut too short, so ensure accuracy before cutting.
- If possible, re-measure the installation location to validate your calculations with two independent measurements.
Trimming Small Pieces with Scoring and Snapping
Position your vinyl flooring flat on a surface. If cutting on the floor, place an additional piece of flooring beneath to protect the surface. Secure the plank with your knee or use clamps if on a table. Ensure stability by adding weight if needed.
- This method is suitable for horizontal cuts only; attempting lengthwise cuts may result in uneven snaps.
Align your framing square along the cutting line. Apply pressure with your non-dominant hand, steadying the square with your thumb and fingers. Maintain stability by ensuring proper thumb placement and finger alignment.
Utilize a utility knife to score the plank halfway. Follow the marked line, guided by the framing square, applying moderate pressure at a 45-degree angle. The goal is to create a partial cut to facilitate snapping, not to slice entirely through the plank.
- Focus on creating a wedge rather than cutting through the entire thickness.
Flip the plank and secure it with your knee. If not already on the floor, move the plank down with the finished side facing downwards. Place your knee over the larger section to stabilize it, ensuring even pressure distribution and preventing damage to weaker areas.
Detach the excess vinyl by pulling it towards you. Grip the edge firmly and pull with force. It should snap cleanly, leaving a neat edge. If it doesn't snap, flip it over and deepen your cut.
- Retain the snapped-off section; it might come in handy for filling smaller areas during installation.
Cutting Lengthwise Using a Jigsaw
Secure your vinyl plank to your work surface using clamps. Set it on a suitable workbench or table edge, securing it with clamps or weight. Ensure your safety by wearing protective eyewear, especially due to flying debris.
- If experienced, you can hold the board instead of clamping.
Verify the jigsaw blade direction. Ensure the teeth face away from you to facilitate cutting. Rotate the blade if necessary by unlocking and flipping it in place. Consider using a laminate flooring cutter as an alternative to minimize dust.
- Expect dust if using a saw.
Position the jigsaw's base plate over the cutting line. Align the base plate and blade with the cutting line. Maintain stability by placing both hands on the jigsaw before activating it. For precision, use a framing square or ruler as a guide for smaller cuts.
Engage the trigger and start maneuvering your saw. Push the jigsaw forward to activate the blade. Be cautious not to exert excessive force, maintaining a clean cut.
- If your vinyl plank moves excessively, ensure it's firmly secured. Apply more pressure, adjust clamps, or hold it firmly with your off-hand.
- Secure the jigsaw's power cable around your forearm to prevent it from moving.
Carefully guide your jigsaw along the entire cutting line. Apply pressure to the base while keeping a steady hand on the handle. Ensure a smooth cut across the vinyl plank without any rough sections or loose pieces. Use a utility knife to trim any imperfections.
- This method offers optimal control over the cut, allowing precise blade movement.
- A circular saw is an alternative, but its base may be too large for standard vinyl planks and can experience kickback with thinner materials.
- Vinyl plank flooring is a cost-effective and durable option suitable for various rooms, including kitchens due to its resistance to spills.
Pointers
Necessary Tools
Measuring Your Cut Accurately
- Protective eyewear
- Framing square
- Tape measure
- Carpenter's pencil, grease marker, or white chalk
Scoring and Breaking Smaller Pieces
- Eye protection
- Framing square
- Tape measure
- Utility knife
Cutting Lengthwise with a Jigsaw
- Safety glasses
- Tape measure
- Jigsaw
