Umair Gaines
Cutting large LVP (luxury vinyl plank) flooring can be done in several ways. Scoring and snapping is one method, but it can be time-consuming and tedious. Another option is to use a track saw with a PCD blade, which cuts well and simplifies cleanup due to its dust collection feature. A portable table saw is also useful for ripping, while a flooring cutter or a miter saw can be employed for length cutting. When dealing with challenging angles, a cordless circular saw with a Diablo framing blade can be effective, especially when used with a clamped level for guidance. For DIY enthusiasts, a utility knife, speed square, and pencil are sufficient tools for the task. Before cutting, it is essential to measure the room accurately and purchase 10-20% more flooring than required to account for errors and future replacements.
Characteristics and Values Table for Cutting LVP with Electric Shears
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Tools | Electric shears, speed square, pencil, utility knife, track saw, portable table saw, flooring cutter, vinyl cutter, jigsaw, miter saw, measuring tape, chalk or crayon, straightedge, vacuum, tapping block, rubber mallet, pry bar, safety goggles, work gloves, knee pads |
| Process | Score and snap method, cutting with electric shears or other tools, removing baseboards or mouldings, undercutting door jambs, staggering plank ends, dividing room width by plank width for border planks |
| Considerations | Room measurements, buying 10-20% more flooring than needed, subfloor preparation, cleanliness, levelling, and removal of old flooring, safety precautions |
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What You'll Learn
Scoring and snapping LVP
Scoring and snapping is the preferred method for cutting small pieces of LVP. Here is a step-by-step guide:
First, use a tape measure or framing square to measure your cut. Pull the tape measure towards the location where you want to make your cut and note the measurements. A framing square is ideal for calculating 90-degree cuts. Hold the square flat against the plank and apply pressure with your non-dominant hand to keep it steady.
Next, use a utility knife to cut halfway through the plank. Using the framing square as a guide, cut along the marked line at a 45-degree angle, applying moderate pressure. Don't worry about cutting all the way through—you're creating a wedge for the section you'll snap off.
Now, flip your board over and secure it with your knee. Place your knee over the bigger section of flooring to keep it stable and ensure you don't apply too much pressure to a weaker section.
Finally, snap off the excess vinyl by pulling it towards you. Grab the edge of the vinyl you're removing and pull hard. It should snap off cleanly, leaving a straight edge. If it doesn't snap off, stop and make your cut deeper.
Scoring and snapping is a convenient and safer alternative to using a table saw, as it exposes less of the blade. However, it may not be suitable for longer cuts, as it can be challenging to score and snap a large piece of rigid material. Some brands of LVP also snap more easily than others, so you may need to use a miter saw for lengthwise cuts.
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Using a track saw
For best results, it is recommended to use a track saw with the shortest track available. A 42-tooth blade in a TS 60 (6-1/2") track saw has proven effective for cutting LVP, with the blades holding up well. It is also beneficial to use a track saw with dust collection to simplify cleanup, as LVP can produce clingy shavings.
When using a track saw, it is important to ensure that the rip is on both edges and the crosscut is on both ends. The LVP should be cut face up. Additionally, it is recommended to mark the cutting line on the LVP before using the track saw to ensure accuracy.
Compared to other power saws, such as a table saw or miter saw, a track saw offers the advantage of being lightweight and portable, making it easier to manoeuvre and fit in the installation room. It is also safer than a table saw, as less of the blade is exposed, reducing the risk of injury.
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Cutting LVP with a utility knife
When it comes to cutting LVP, there is no single "best" tool, and factors like project size, your comfort with power tools, and budget should be considered. If you opt for a utility knife, here are some key steps and recommendations to follow:
First and foremost, prioritize safety. Always wear eye and ear protection to shield yourself from dust and noise. Before starting your project, it's advisable to practice on scrap pieces of LVP to get a feel for the cutting process. Choose a fine-toothed blade if you want a smooth finish on your LVP. A sharp blade with a higher tooth count will generally provide a cleaner cut with less effort.
For the cleanest cuts, it's recommended to score your desired cut line lightly with the utility knife before making a deeper cut. This helps guide your cut and can result in a neater finish. If possible, consider cutting outdoors to minimize the mess inside your workspace.
While utility knives are effective for LVP, they may require more physical effort for thicker materials or when making numerous cuts. For intricate cuts, plunge cuts (starting in the middle of a plank), or trimming around door frames and obstacles, an oscillating multi-tool might be a better option. This is because it provides unmatched precision due to its rapid back-and-forth blade motion.
Always select a blade specifically designed for cutting wood and plastics. Applying excessive pressure when cutting with a utility knife can cause the vinyl to melt, so let the sharpness of the blade do the work. Remember to read the instructions carefully and take the necessary precautions to ensure a safe and successful LVP cutting experience.
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Tools for cutting LVP
When it comes to cutting LVP, there are several tools that can get the job done effectively and safely. Here are some of the most commonly used tools and some tips on how to use them:
Vinyl Plank Cutters
Vinyl plank cutters are specialised tools that are designed for cutting LVP. They utilise a lever system with a sharp blade, allowing you to make straight cuts through LVP with minimal effort. These cutters offer a safe, dust-free, and quiet solution for your project. While they are primarily used for straight cuts, their speed and precision make them a valuable investment, especially for larger projects involving repetitive straight cuts.
Oscillating Multi-Tool
If your LVP project involves detailed cuts, plunge cuts, or trimming around door frames and other obstacles, an oscillating multi-tool is the perfect choice. Its rapid back-and-forth blade motion provides unmatched precision. Always choose a blade specifically designed for wood and plastics, and be careful not to apply excessive pressure as it can cause the vinyl to melt. While it may not be the fastest tool for long, straight cuts, its versatility makes it a valuable addition to your toolkit.
Jigsaw
A jigsaw is another versatile tool that can be used for cutting LVP. It can handle straight cuts and is especially useful if you don't have access to other power tools. For optimal control, consider clamping your LVP to a workbench or using a jigsaw guide. Always use a fine-toothed blade made for plastics to minimise chipping and maintain a light touch for the cleanest results.
Circular Saw
For large projects where efficiency is crucial, a circular saw is the tool of choice. It ensures quick and accurate straight cuts across multiple planks. Prioritise safety by using eye and ear protection due to the dust and noise generated. For the cleanest cuts, score your line lightly with a utility knife before cutting with the circular saw, and consider cutting outdoors to minimise the mess.
Miter Saw
Miter saws are ideal if your LVP installation involves fitting planks around doorways, built-in furniture, or other obstacles that require clean and accurate cuts for a seamless, professional finish. They are also perfect for LVP layouts with multiple angles or intricate joinery. As with other power saws, always use a fine-toothed blade designed for plastics to prevent chipping or damage. Miter saws offer significant advantages for projects that demand precision.
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Jigsaws and miter saws for LVP
Jigsaws are a great option for cutting LVP, especially when you need to cut lengthwise. Before you start, make sure you're wearing protective eyewear as small pieces of vinyl may shoot out during the cutting process. You should also handle power tools with care.
To use a jigsaw, first, use a tape measurer or framing square to measure your cut. Double-check your measurements before proceeding. Next, check that the jigsaw blade's teeth are facing away from you. You'll be pushing the jigsaw away from your body, so the blade needs to be cutting in the opposite direction. If you need to rotate the blade, simply unlock it from the jigsaw and flip it. Most jigsaws have a release button for the blade. Place the jigsaw's base plate over the line you'll be cutting, laying it against the edge of the vinyl plank. If you're making a smaller cut, you can use a framing square or thick ruler as a straight edge to guide the base plate.
Once you're ready to start cutting, place both hands on top of the jigsaw and pull the trigger. You'll then need to push the jigsaw forward to get it to move. Be careful not to push too hard, as this will affect the cleanliness of your cut. If your vinyl plank bounces up and down, it's not secure enough, so add pressure by tightening your clamp or holding it more firmly with your other hand.
In addition to jigsaws, miter saws are another option for cutting LVP. Miter saws are typically used for making cleaner cuts, and you don't have to worry about issues like slower cuts or the inability to clear out sawdust. When using a miter saw, you can use a higher tooth count blade, but this isn't necessary as the cuts will likely be hidden by baseboards.
For both jigsaws and miter saws, remember to always prioritize safety. Wear protective gear, handle tools with care, and ensure your work area is secure and free of hazards.
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Frequently asked questions
Experts recommend scoring the plank with a utility knife and snapping it. Vinyl cutters are also a good solution. For more complicated cuts, consider a jigsaw or miter saw.
You will need a speed square, a pencil, a utility knife, measuring tape, a chalk or crayon, a straightedge, and a vacuum. Some manufacturers recommend a tapping block and rubber mallet.
A track saw with a PCD blade works well for large LVP. A portable table saw can also be used, but it might not be able to cut larger sizes.
