Vinyl plank flooring is the best way to enhance the beauty of your floors. But what if you want to do it yourself and don’t know how to cut vinyl plank flooring? You’re at the right place. You can easily cut vinyl plank flooring with the proper tools and our guidance. Let’s explore the easiest way to cut vinyl plant flooring to specific dimensions according to your room.
How To Cut Vinyl Plank Flooring
Cutting vinyl plank flooring is an important part of installing it. You need to be precise and careful to get it right. People prefer these vinyl sheets and shiplap accent walls to enhance the beauty of their flooring and walls as well as their home style. Today, I’ll share a few easy steps that I used with the help of my friend Adam to cut vinyl plank flooring in my house. So, follow along and you’ll be able to do it like a pro.
Step 1: Required Tools & Materials
We used the following things to accurately cut the vinyl planks. We also used safety gear while cutting the vinyl sheets.
- Measuring Tape
- Marker or chalk
- Cardboard
- Straight edge or T-square
- Utility knife with a sharp blade or jigsaw
- Work gloves
- Safety glasses
- Dust mask
- Work surface
- Clamps
Step 2: Acclimate the Vinyl Sheets
Precise measurements are very important when cutting vinyl plank flooring. To ensure accuracy, we let the planks acclimate to the room for 48 hours before cutting. This helps to prevent shrinkage or expansion due to environmental changes.
Step 3: Measurements & Marking
For straight cuts on the floor, I simply measured and marked the cut point on the plank with chalk. Then, we used a straight edge as a guide to align it with the mark and drew a line across the plank. This creates a precise cutting guide.
There were some cabinets in the room where I also wanted to install vinyl planks. So I created a template using cardboard to trace the exact shape onto the vinyl plank. You can also use this method of cardboard as a template for other irregular things or objects like pipes.
Step 3: Scoring and Cutting The Planks
I used a utility knife so I had to score the planks. If you’re using jigsaw simply skip this step. I placed the plank on an old vinyl scrap on the table, with the section to be cut hanging off the edge. After that, I used a straight edge to guide the utility knife and scored along the marked line. I also applied firm pressure to make a deep cut for about halfway through. I made enough repeated cuts to easily snap the plank along the scored line. I used the utility knife to fix some rough edges.
If you have a jigsaw to cut vinyl planks, simply start by making a small hole or notch where you want to cut. Then, use your jigsaw to move it along the line you want to cut by keeping the saw flat on the plank and, applying steady pressure.
- For Irregular Shapes (Cabinets)
I secured the plank to a table with clamps to make irregular cuts in vinyl plank flooring for my cabinets. After clamping it, I applied masking tape to hold the cardboard template in place that I made earlier. I scored the cutting line slowly and carefully using the utility knife. I scored it a few times by applying increasing pressure until the plank was cut through.
Step 4: Check The Fit
I had to make small adjustments with the utility knife in some pieces. After making these adjustments, all the pieces were accurate according to their fits. Now they were ready to install.
You should also double-check the plank’s length and fit. If it’s not quite right, make small adjustments to avoid gaps or mismatches. In this way, you’ll be safe from common mistakes when installing vinyl plank flooring.
Conclusion
By following these steps and using the right tools, you’ll be able to cut your vinyl plank flooring with ease and accuracy. I hope that the above easy steps have solved your query about how to cut vinyl plank flooring. Also, remember to always prioritize safety and take your time to ensure a professional-looking finish. These vinyl planks are the best option for a modern boho dining room and boho kitchen.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is The Best Way To Cut Vinyl Plank Flooring?
The best way to cut vinyl planks is by scoring the plank with a utility knife and snapping it. Vinyl cutters are also a good solution. You can use a jigsaw or miter saw for more complicated cuts.
What is The Best Cutter For Vinyl Plank Flooring?
A snap cutter or a tile cutter is the best tool to cut vinyl plank flooring.
Do You Need a Special Blade To Cut Vinyl Plank Flooring?
No, you don’t need a special blade with a utility knife to cut vinyl planks. You just need a knife with a sharp blade to easily cut it.
What Saw is Best For Cutting Vinyl Flooring?
A table saw is the best if you prefer a saw for cutting vinyl flooring. Many professionals prefer a table saw over a jigsaw.
What Tool To Use To Cut Vinyl Flooring?
Vinyl flooring can be cut with a utility knife. Thin tiles are cut through directly, while planks are scored and snapped.
