Cutting Laminate Flooring
#1
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Cutting Laminate Flooring
Hello,
I have a 10" Miter Saw. Can I use this to cut the plank that is .315"X7.60" ? I know that I would have to turn it over to complete cut, but can I make clean cut easily? What type of a miter blade would I need if I can use this type of saw?
Thx for any help!
I have a 10" Miter Saw. Can I use this to cut the plank that is .315"X7.60" ? I know that I would have to turn it over to complete cut, but can I make clean cut easily? What type of a miter blade would I need if I can use this type of saw?
Thx for any help!
#2
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If you're talking about a "chop" sort of saw, you may have a problem. Laminates will wear out a saw blade in a hurry. You need a saw that allows you to start at an edge and go through the material instead of coming right down on top of it. The surface of the laminate is so tough that any blade you use will dull quickly that way. I like a very fine tooth blade to get a nice clean cut.
#3
Try putting a piece of 2" X 6" on the base of the saw and then put the piece to be cut on top. By raising it, you are able to make a longer cut. If it's not enough, add more wood to the base. A carbide blade would be best and make the cut with the finished side of the flooring facing up. If this doesn't work then you'll have to use a table saw or circular saw.
#4
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Problem with that is that there is a fence to keep wood straight on the Miter saw. This fence takes up quite a few inches off of the saw. I think I can remove this fence, but it would be more difficult keeping the plank straight. Guess I have to use the old circular, but would rather not.
#6
No matter what method you use, the cut does not have to 100% perfect since it will be hidden by a base molding or a shoe molding.
#8
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I've put in laminate using a 10" compound miter saw. It works OK. I used a 60-tooth carbide blade. Cut with the finished side down to minimize chiping. As someone already mentioned, the edges will be covered so it does not have to be perfect. You will also most likley need a table saw to cut planks lengthwise. You can use a jigsaw, but they take more time and give an uglier cut!
Good Luck!
Joe Michel
Good Luck!
Joe Michel
#9
I'm not sure that the info about cutting with finished side down is correct. Here are the rules I have found to be best:
1. Miter saw - finished side up
2. Table saw - finished side down
In other words, the finished side should face the blade.
1. Miter saw - finished side up
2. Table saw - finished side down
In other words, the finished side should face the blade.