A hand-held plunge saw with a TCT triple chip blade is suitable for cutting compact laminate. An alternative might be a jigsaw with a selection of metal cutting blades. You will also need a router for finishing.
The Bosch EXPERT Laminate clean T128BHM Jigsaw Blade is a top performing blade for laminate work. Because of its very long lifespan, it is also a clear best choice for professionals who are fed up of wasting money on jigsaw blades that don't last.
The jigsaw is the best power tool to use to cut laminate floors with for a few reasons. It's light, important because you'll be picking it up all day. Also, the best blades are cheap.
Therefore, when cutting laminates, or any material where you want minimal damage, a “Clean for Wood” blade like the T101B should be your choice. It'll give you that clean, straight cut you're looking for.
The key to cutting through laminate flooring without chipping it, is to use a fine tooth blade. Some recommend at least 18 teeth per inch on a hand saw to prevent chipping, whilst others recommend at least a 30 teeth per inch blade for a jigsaw.
Zipblade jigsaw blades are the premium choice for your compact laminate worktops. The sharpened teeth and angled body have been designed for an ultra fast cut which will pro long the life of your blade. Down facing teeth provide a clean and smooth finish on your surface material.
We therefore recommend cutting with the face side down to avoid chipping the laminate.
You see, laminate flooring will destroy a wood cutting blade with alternating top bevel (ATB) teeth in no time at all. The sharp points on this type of blade can't handle anything that hard – they dull quickly and those tips are what the blade uses to cut cleanly through wood.
What is the best tool to cut a compact laminate worktop? We'd always recommend using a circular plunge saw to cut a laminate worktop.
A hand-held plunge saw with a TCT triple chip blade is suitable for cutting compact laminate. An alternative might be a jigsaw with a selection of metal cutting blades. You will also need a router for finishing.
Laminex Multipurpose Compact Laminates can be cut, drilled and machined with standard woodworking equipment fitted with tungsten carbide edges.
The proper tool is essential because a normal saw or knife will cause chipping and vinyl ears. However, if you want to cut odd shapes rather than just straight lines, you can use a jigsaw instead. You'll also need a utility knife, measuring tape, a square tool, and a straightedge.
Almost any type of utility knife is suitable for cutting laminate, including a carpet knife, but make sure that the blade is sharp. That's why, a carpet knife is usually the best option because it is often much sharper than other standard utility knives.
It's best to use a down-cutting blade to minimize chipping. While cutting, make sure to hold the saw firmly to the countertop because down-cutting blades want to push the saw up.
T-shank jigsaw blades, with ground teeth and body, for the clean cutting of laminate panels (3-30mm) and kitchen worktops (45mm).
Another way to minimize the risk of chipping is to cut the laminate sheet from the backside. You can also use a straight piece of wood as a guide to cut a straight line. To avoid overlapping, set the wood at a distance equal to the distance between the guide mark and the edge of the blade.
One of the best ways to cut laminate planks to length is with a miter saw. You can quickly cut straight cuts or adjust the saw to cut angles if needed. Best of all, most DIYers have access to a miter saw.
Unlike traditional laminate surfaces, compact laminate worktops do not require edging strips. To finish or re-finish edges, simply sand with 240 grit sanding paper to soften the edge. It is recommended that a small amount of linseed oil is applied to cut edges to achieve a smooth finish.
A jigsaw is a real all-rounder when it comes to cutting laminate floors. It's best used to cut out shapes from your board. For example, when you want to place boards around your toilet or maybe a pillar. Always use a fine toothed blade and have the saw blade spinning before you touch the board.
The New Compact Laminate worktop Jig will cut a discreet 10mm deep, 90° mitre joints into compact laminate worktops.
If using a panel saw, clamp the board in a workbench, ensuring that the board is face up and saw. Only use pressure and/or cut on the downward strokes.
Dremel Multipurpose Cutting Kit (565)
With its ability to make freehand yet controlled cuts to an adjustable depth up to 19 mm in laminate, drywall, wood and more, it offers a range of clever cutting options for all kinds of home improvements.
If still hard for you to find the saw or dremel above, you may ask if can you cut laminate with a utility knife. The answer is no, you can not.