For solid and veneered worktops, you need a cross-cut, fine tooth saw blade with 48 teeth. For laminated worktops, it is advisable to use the triple chip grind saw blade, also with 48 teeth. In addition to the using the right saw blade, a splinter guard is essential for ensuring a low-splinter cut.
Circular Saws
A circular saw is the most efficient tool for cutting a worktop down to size.
Measure where you want to cut it, then masking tape roughly where it falls. Measure and mark again with a pencil on top to the masking tape. Then, using a fine tooth hand saw, start from cutting at the front section (where the profile usually is). Saw while aiming the hand saw downwards to get a straight cut.
Stick a strip of masking tape over the countertop widthwise, so the mark you made is centered underneath, to keep the laminate from chipping during cutting. Use masking tape that is at least 1 in (2.5 cm) wide for this.
For solid and veneered worktops, you need a cross-cut, fine tooth saw blade with 48 teeth. For laminated worktops, it is advisable to use the triple chip grind saw blade, also with 48 teeth.
Place 2-3 strips of painter's tape over the approximate area you will be cutting. This will protect the surface of the stone and prevent chipping as you cut. The placement of the tape doesn't need to be perfect, just make sure you cover the area where your cut line will be. You will mark the line on top of the tape.
Therefore, you could use a table saw, a circular saw, a reciprocating saw or a jigsaw (ideal for curved cuts). As far as the blade is concerned, you should choose one with a fine high teeth count and long enough to cut trough the counter top (if it is also carbide tipped it would be great).
The Bosch T101BR jigsaw blade is an ideal choice for cutting laminate materials. The blade cuts on the down stroke, not on the upstroke, the “R” in the product code referring to its “reversed” teeth. This is a popular blade often referred to as a worktop blade.
Make a small mark on the edge of the laminate, so you know where to cut or use a chalk pencil to draw your measurement line across the face of the laminate. You can easily wipe the chalk off the surface after you are done cutting. Leave the laminate facing right-side-up and cut it with a circular saw or handsaw.
In contrast to laminate worktops, solid laminate worktops are completely solid and do not have a chipboard substrate in the middle. Compact laminate worktops are water resistant and are more durable than ordinary laminate worktops which makes them a popular option for kitchens, bathrooms and outdoor uses.
In fact, you can cut the planks using a table saw, miter saw, circular saw, hand saw or laminate cutter. However, using a diamond blade is recommended as laminate can be tough to cut through and may damage another type of blade.
The Rapid Wood Blade is an award-winning multi-tool blade designed to cut timber, hardwoods and laminate flooring.
The Secret to Make a Straight Cut on the Laminate Countertop
A circular saw with a blade made of fine-tooth carbine does this job the best. A jigsaw with a fine-tooth blade can also be used. For this, you will need to cut from the countertops' bottom side using the up-cutting blade.
For most homeowners, a standard corded 15-amp circular saw with a 40-tooth blade is the best option for cutting solid-surface material. Cutting solid-surface material is harder than you might think. This is due to the mineral content of the material. This is not a solid plastic material, as is sometimes believed.
A circular saw is often the best option to cut laminate worktops. Make sure the blade is sharp (replace the blade if you have been using it for a while) and suitable for fine cuts—it should cut through the worktop without any issue.
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.
Handsaw: Sawing your boards can actually be done with a regular handsaw. Make a small cut first and then saw on! It's ideal for shortening laminate boards.
Handsaw, jigsaw, crosscut saw (also called a plunge saw). For simple straight cuts, you can easily use a handsaw to cut laminate flooring if that's all you have, but for the most professional finish, you should choose a crosscut saw or table saw.