Quck answer
Vinyl plank flooring is a popular choice for homeowners due to its durability and low maintenance. Cutting vinyl plank flooring is a relatively simple process that can be done with a few basic tools.
Here is a step-by-step guide on how to cut vinyl plank flooring:
1. Measure and mark the area where you need to make the cut.
2. Use a straight edge or a carpenter’s square to draw a straight line across the plank.
3. Score the plank along the marked line using a utility knife or a vinyl cutter.
4. Bend the plank along the scored line to create a clean break.
5. If needed, use a jigsaw or a circular saw with a fine-toothed blade to make more precise cuts.
Remember to always wear safety goggles and gloves when cutting vinyl plank flooring. Double-check your measurements and take your time to ensure accurate cuts.
Among all building materials, luxury vinyl plank (LVP) flooring is the easiest to cut. You only need a sharp utility knife and a straightedge for most cuts. The process involves scoring the hard wear layer on the top surface with the utility knife and breaking the material at the scored line. This method is ideal for most straight cuts, but some tips and variations can help with making curves and other specialty cuts.
How to Make Straight Crosscuts on Vinyl Planks
Crosscuts are cuts that make a plank shorter and are made perpendicular to its length. With vinyl flooring, there is no grain, so a crosscut is just like any other cut. The secret to making straight crosscuts is to use a square to guide the utility knife. Almost any type of woodworking or carpenter’s square will do. Use a construction-type, heavy-duty utility knife, not a “box cutter” or one of those flimsy plastic types with snap-off blades. To make a crosscut, mark the cutting line, place the flooring on a flat work surface, position a square on the cutting line, score the plank deeply with the knife, and bend it backward along the cutting line to snap it.
How to Make Long Rip Cuts on Vinyl Planks
Rips cuts are cuts that make a plank narrower and are made parallel to its length. Luxury vinyl planks are typically about 4 feet long, so you can’t use a square to guide your knife. Instead, you need some other type of straightedge. Flooring pros use metal straightedges designed for this purpose, but you can use a variety of substitutes.
Tools Needed for Cutting Vinyl Plank Flooring
- 4-foot level
- Drywall T-square
- Straight 1 x 4 or 1 x 3 board
- Strip of hardboard
- Yardstick
- Extra flooring plank
When making rip cuts, use a longer score line and be sure to secure the plank and straightedge with woodworking clamps if necessary. To cut off the groove from planks in the first row against a wall, hold the plank in one hand and pare away the groove strips with a knife, guided by the solid portion of the plank.
Image Credit:
Lowe’s
Cutting Curves and Notches on Vinyl Plank Flooring
Cutting curves and notches requires breaking the end cuts first before breaking the rip cut at the bottom of the notch. For curved cuts, use a utility knife or aviation snips. Aviation snips make detailed cuts better than traditional tin snips and don’t require snapping the material. For tight curves, use pliers to snap the plank if using the score-and-snap method.
FAQ
1. Can I cut vinyl plank flooring with a regular utility knife?
Yes, you can cut vinyl plank flooring with a regular utility knife. Start by measuring the length you need to cut and mark it on the plank. Then, use the utility knife to score the plank along the marked line. Once the line is scored, you can snap the plank along the scored line to make a clean cut.
2. What is the best tool to cut vinyl plank flooring?
The best tool to cut vinyl plank flooring is a vinyl cutter. A vinyl cutter is specifically designed to cut through vinyl flooring with precision and ease. It has a sharp blade that glides smoothly through the material, ensuring clean and accurate cuts. If you don’t have a vinyl cutter, you can also use a jigsaw or a circular saw with a fine-tooth blade.
3. How do I cut vinyl plank flooring around door frames?
To cut vinyl plank flooring around door frames, you will need a coping saw or a jigsaw. Start by measuring and marking the area where the flooring needs to be cut to fit around the door frame. Then, use the coping saw or jigsaw to carefully cut along the marked line. Take your time and make small, precise cuts to ensure a perfect fit.
4. Can I cut vinyl plank flooring lengthwise?
Yes, you can cut vinyl plank flooring lengthwise. Measure and mark the length you need to cut on the plank, then use a straight edge and a utility knife to score the plank along the marked line. Make multiple passes with the knife to ensure a clean and precise cut. Once the plank is scored, you can snap it along the scored line to make the lengthwise cut.
5. Do I need any special equipment to cut vinyl plank flooring?
While it is recommended to use a vinyl cutter for the best results, you can still cut vinyl plank flooring with basic tools. A utility knife, a straight edge, and a measuring tape are the minimum tools you will need. However, if you have a lot of cuts to make or need more precision, investing in a vinyl cutter or using a jigsaw with a fine-tooth blade can make the job easier and yield better results.