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how do i cut formica without chipping the edge?

117K views 31 replies 22 participants last post by  m.n.j.chell  
#1 ·
:huh:I have to cut a piece of formica counter top and do not want a raggedy edge. what blade and what preperation?
 
#2 ·
With a lot of care and even more luck.

You need a fine tooth saw blade. Preferably one which states it is for laminated media.

Score the cut line with a sharp knife.
Apply masking tape across the cut line.

If the counter flat or does it have a backsplash?.

Ideally you want the blade cutting on the up stroke, so if the top were flat lay it down on the laminate side, ideally on a piece of foam, thick cardboard or plywood to allow the the blade and to support the laminate.

If you have a backsplash you could lay plywood up to the backsplash, but you are likely to have to take your chances with the backsplash.

If not backsplash another option is to cut wide with the circ saw and follow up with a router and a trim bit. Will need a fence since will not be able to use the edge to guide the bearing.

Good luck. I hate cutting countertop. Too frustrating. Too many ways for "Murphy" to get involved.
 
#5 · (Edited)
#9 ·
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It would be nice for you to introduce yourself. This thread is about 2 months old and the OP has likely found a way or has competed his project, as he hasn't come back to address his own thread.

As for your suggestion, carbide tipped saw blades aren't designed to be run in a reversed position. It can be a safety hazard. There is the potential for teeth to get knocked off or damaged.







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#11 ·
As per your request...My name is Charlie, I have been a carpenter/cabinetmaker for over 20 years I still have all of my fingers and not even a stitch from an accident. I usually do not join forums due to the fact that some ego's get in the way of practical suggestions, after careful review of several posts I did not see any of the usual...so I joined. There are always several different ways of completing a task, and each is allowed his own opinion. I apoligize to the guy with 14,000+ posts, I guess I do not have the experience to post on this site either. I will let you guys get back to ruling your roost.
 
#13 ·
Sorry Guys

I apologize to cabinetman and jschaben, even though it has worked well for me in the past many times...I should have never posted an unsafe way of doing anything. I also apologize for losing my temper...bad habit... I am sure you both are very good guys with a wealth of knowledge. Have a blessed day
 
#21 ·
Hi!
In addition to many of the above suggestions, we find these "shears" to be very helpful, both for straight or curved work.
The first two on this website have lasted us 30+ years of use, and seem indestructable :thumbsup:!
Great for on-site work or repairs...no scoring needed :thumbsup:!
http://www.klenktools.com/main/products/laminateshearsnew.asp
You cut from the top of the laminate, and if you get any chips, they appear on the underside only :thumbsup:!
Little pricey, but hey...:blink:!
Best,
Marena and Vinny
 
#22 ·
All you supposed experts giving Charlie a hard time make me sick. You sound like a bunch of egotistical know-it-all's. Charlie's backwards blade method works great. You make it sound like only carbide-tipped blades are now available and plain steel-tipped blades are no longer available. Well steel-tipped are readily available and work great per Charlie's advice. I think you all owe Charlie a great big apology.
 
#28 ·
I normally use my 50 Tooth Freud Combination Blade with Carbide Tip. Run it right through the table saw blade. The edge chip up is so small as to not be a problem with a 1/8" over hang to be cleaned up with the hand held router. If one side has to butted against the backsplash, I would cleanthat edge up first with the hand-held and a straight edge. then lay it down and clean up the other sides after it is laid.