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cutting postformed laminate tops

tjlee | Posted in Tools for Home Building on September 10, 2007 04:58am

Looking for suggestions on tools or jig to cut purchased postformed laminate counter tops on the job site.  Trying to cut with a circular saw by hand is awkward and results in poor quality cuts.  Suggestions?

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  1. MSA1 | Sep 10, 2007 06:16am | #1

    We use a circle saw and a straight edge. I guess if I owned every tool i'd probably try a radial arm saw.

  2. KenHill3 | Sep 10, 2007 06:48am | #2

    What MSA1 said. Also, cut from the backside (underside) will yield a cleaner edge on the face. Use finish blade.

  3. User avater
    NickNukeEm | Sep 10, 2007 03:33pm | #3

    I use a shop-made jig, which is simply a piece of plywood thick enough to raise the saw above the lip on the underside of the countertop, and a fence screwed to the plywood to guide the saw.  Fence is set so that on the first cut (not on a countertop, btw) the resulting guide is custom fit for that particular saw.  I also made a much smaller one for the back splash.

    Flip the CT over so underside is up, mark where you want to cut, and place the guide on the CT cut line.  I use 1 1/4" screws to lock it in place.  Make sure the CT is supported on both sides, as a standard 7 1/4" saw will not cut through the back splash, which is what the smaller jig is used for.  I usually cut the CT first and BS second, simply to follow the cut line on the BS that the first cut made.  Clear as mud, but it's easier done than typed.

     

    "I am the master of my fate, I am the captain of my soul."  Invictus, by Henley.

  4. JTC1 | Sep 10, 2007 04:22pm | #4

    Same as everybody else has said.

    Circular saw, from the back of counter, guided by a shop made jig. 40 or so tooth carbide blade.

    I never tried this but, if the cut produced by the circular saw still was not smooth enough to suit you, you could probably put a polish on your cut with a jig / batten guided router. "Rough" cut with a circular saw then take off the last 1/8" or so with the router.

    I am assuming you are trying to make 90 degree cuts - not corner miters.

    Have never attempted a corner miter in the field as my post formed supplier has a huge special saw for making these.

    Jim

    Never underestimate the value of a sharp pencil or good light. 

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