“Any DIY hacks for cutting 48 vinyl planks without splurging on an expensive tool?”
Asked by Marvin Day 
4 months ago
Last Updated: August 1, 2024
Does anyone know a cost-effective method for cutting 48″ vinyl planks without having to splurge on a pricey $500 tool?
Just need a sheet of plywood, a few clamps, and a 2×4
Hey, could you provide more information here? If the tiles are loose lay, you should be able to remove one and the rest should come off easily. Just be cautious when separating the joints if you want to save them. If they’re glued down, use a scraper since they’re probably ruined anyway.
What do you mean?
You can use a straight edge and a box cutter. Score it a few times and then snap it.
Here’s a look at how my team handles it. Sometimes I bring out the table saw for heavy cutting, but usually this technique works well.
I could go with a table saw, but I believe the OP wanted to know how to manage without one
Hey, maybe just needs some tips on how much table saws cost around $500
I ended up cutting them with my table saw. Did I misinterpret your question?
I think she wants to know how to do it if she doesn’t have a table saw
I suggest using a table saw with a fine tooth blade. Alternatively, you can score it with a utility knife and snap it off along the line. Both methods are effective.
You could also use a razor knife or grinder with a wafer blade to tidy up the edge once you’re finished.
Hey, do you need a jig saw?
Tablesaw, circular saw, jigsaw. The cuts on floating flooring are hidden, so it doesn’t have to be flawless. Secure the work piece to a sturdy surface, use a straight edge as a guide. Cut from the opposite side to prevent any marks. I’ve put down countless square feet using only a cordless jigsaw.
Make a barrier for your circular saw.
A utility blade with a straight edge.
Jigsaw
Grinding wheel are great options
Just a blade.
You can cover up any cuts by using one of the saws mentioned and adding some molding. Easy fix!
There are plenty of tools you can use for the job – a router with a straight edge, a razor with a straight edge, a circular saw, a jig saw, a table saw, a multi-tool, or a grinder. So many options!
Many large hardware stores offer tool rental services.
A T-square and a sharp utility knife should do the trick.
I made straight cuts on transparent acrylic using a precise table saw, a band saw for curved cuts, and smoothed out the rough edges with a belt sander.
I borrowed a friend’s table saw.
Secure another piece of wood on top to serve as a guide!!!
You can easily cut cheap ones with a utility knife. You can rent the tool for around 150-200$, or buy it. For long cuts, use a table saw or circular saw. For special cuts, I prefer using my oscillator.
How about a sharp blade and a cutting tool?
Razor knife and a 4-foot T square make it super simple and quick. To break it after scoring, start at one end and work your way down to avoid difficulty snapping it all at once.
I’ve worked on a few houses with this person before. It’s worth the investment. Trust me, it will save you a lot of time and make your project run smoothly. You can easily make rip cuts and cross cuts with a quick and simple transition. The saw and sled are already assembled on the sliding rail. Take a look. I bought mine at the Depot!
It’s pretty lightweight so I can easily place it on a countertop or carry it around to different rooms to cut directly on the floor. It saves time not having to constantly walk back and forth to cut in a different area from where you’re working.
I appreciate it! This is fantastic
Are you kidding me? $500 for a tool? You can get a table saw for less than $200, maybe even at Harbor Freight for less. If you bought it from a big store like Home Depot, have them cut it for you with the right saws. And it won’t cost you a thing, which is the best part. Or you could pay someone like me $200 to cut it for you.
I recently used an 8-year-old Harbor Freight table saw for this.
$200 for that? Really?
Home Depot doesn’t cut 48″ vinyl planks! Seriously? They only have a panel saw for sheet goods and a “miter station” for boards by the foot.
Haha, , you really believe $500 is too much? In my opinion, $500 is a steal! You won’t find a table saw for under $200.
A friend thought you might like to check out this Home Depot product: https://www.homedepot.com/p/RYOBI-ONE-18V-5-5in-Cordless-Flooring-Saw-with-Blade-Tool-Only-PGC21B/317310232. It works well, but I’m not sure if it’s worth buying for just one floor.
Utility knife. You can use a heat gun to warm up the plank if necessary.
Alternatively, you could consider renting a saw
I would love to tear them apart, but unfortunately I don’t have my tools with me. If you can grab a circular saw (skill saw) or table saw, I’d be happy to help you out.
I’d recommend getting a small, secondhand quality tablesaw (online marketplace or similar) for $100-$150. Use it to complete your flooring project… then sell the tablesaw for $100-$125. Voila, project completed successfully and money saved! 🙂
Just grab one of those compact circular saws with a 4″ blade. Get a straightedge and start working.
When it comes to cutting, a table saw or skill saw with a super fine blade or reversed blade will do the job slowly. Another option is using a jigsaw for harder cuts.
Find a table saw for a good price on the marketplace
Just grab a utility knife and you’re good to go
If you need help, consider borrowing a table saw from a couple of neighbors or friends
‘t forget to grab a drywall square and a utility knife. Just score it against the square and then snap it
You can pick up a circular saw and a Kreg rip cut guide for less than $50 each
Hey, , got a sharp blade there.
Hey, ! Great idea.
All you need is a straight edge and a sharp utility knife. Score a few times, then snap – easy as that.
Try creating a jig!