If you're wondering how to cut vinyl panels, be sure to check out our guide.
How to Trim Vinyl Panels? What Tools to Use?
Precise cutting of vinyl panels requires the use of appropriate tools. The correct choice not only affects aesthetics but also work efficiency and floor durability.
How to cut vinyl panels? Here are some devices that can help:
- circular saw;
- hand saw;
- jigsaw;
- vinyl panel knife;
- vinyl panel guillotine;
- angle grinder.
All the mentioned tools are suitable for precise cutting of LVT panels. Some experts recommend not using saws or other electric devices. The reason? The cutting area may become significantly heated, increasing the likelihood of the board deforming.
A better solution, which is also relatively cheap, is to use a special knife for vinyl panels. A suitable blade allows for precise straight-line cuts. Classic hand saws are also used to cut LVT floors.
At Mexen, you can buy vinyl panels measuring 1240 x 1862 mm. Knowing the dimensions of individual boards makes planning their layout easier. Moreover, it helps avoid a shortage or surplus of materials.
How to Cut Vinyl Panels?
Once you have chosen the right tool for cutting the floor panels, you can prepare to work.
The first step is to measure the floor in a given room very accurately. This will help estimate how many panels of a specific size will be needed to finish the floor. Also, pay attention to the information on the product packaging - it includes the number of panels, which will definitely make it easier for you to estimate how many packs of the product you need to order.
Depending on the shape and size of the room, cutting the floor panels to the appropriate size will be necessary.
Important!
Before you start working, measure the panel very accurately and mark where the cut should be made. Ensure the edge at the cutting point will be perfectly straight. Use a protractor for this purpose. Mark the cutting line of the panels clearly with chalk or a pencil.
Cutting Vinyl Panels – Start
Follow these steps:
- Step 1: Place the floor panels intended for cutting on a stable surface, and then secure them so they do not move during work.
- Step 2: Start trimming the panels with a gentle motion of the blade, controlling its pace and being careful not to scratch their surface. If using a jigsaw or other electric tool, remember about safety and keep your hands away from the spinning blade.
- Step 3: Move the blade gradually along the cutting line, trying to maintain even pressure on the panels - this ensures even edges.
Cutting Panels – Finishing the Vinyl Floor
No matter which tool you decided to use for cutting the floor panels, you need to ensure they are finished properly, as perfectly smooth edges are needed for laying the panels.
If you had to cut the panels at a specific angle, check easily if you achieved the desired effect – measure the edge of the panel with a protractor.
Check if there are any irregularities or burrs at the cutting points. If needed, sand the edge and remove dust residues created during this activity. Even and smooth edges will help you better fit the individual panels to each other - achieving the expected effect of a perfectly smooth vinyl floor.
Panel Processing - Why is it Important?
In homes and apartments with a functional room layout created in a square or rectangular plan, finishing floors is much simpler. However, even here it is necessary to cut the panels and adjust them to the interior conditions - for several important reasons:
- It is obvious that precise matching of the board to the floor affects the aesthetics and functionality of the place. This is particularly important when rooms have both regular and irregular shapes. Precise cutting of panels allows for creating a consistent, even surface;
- The necessity to consider an expansion gap at the edges of the room is fundamental. This gap allows the panels to expand and contract freely in response to natural temperature and humidity changes. Without a proper gap, swelling, deformation, and even damage to the boards may occur;
- The last aspect concerns fitting panels around existing obstacles such as pillars, pipes, or other installations. In this case, cutting requires not only precision but also technical skills. This combination ensures panels are properly arranged and suitably secured around objects.
How to Cut Vinyl Panels? Choose the Right Tool for Your Needs
The question of how to cut floor panels is not as problematic as it might seem. Vinyl panels are made from a material that is easy to process mechanically. Whether dealing with vinyl or laminated panels, the most important aspect is choosing the appropriate tool.
Therefore, using a hand saw or a special knife is a good solution. Precise cutting is possible without resorting to electric tools, which is certainly an advantage for self-installation.
Even cutting requires a stable surface and good lighting. When considering how to trim panels, it is essential to pay special attention to making precise measurements before starting work.
While working, be careful not to scratch the panels with saw teeth or knife blades. For electromechanical devices like a circular saw, it is worth becoming familiar with how to use them and adhering to safety guidelines.