Cutting tool for LVT

Clouds88

Hello,

I have just bought LVT for my hallway and lounge and want to know what’s the best tool to buy to help me cut them please? I’ve googled but it says you could get x,y, z and whilst that is great it doesn’t really narrow it down. I have one curve cut to make round the bottom of the stairs but the rest is mainly straight cuts.

If it’s any help I am a woman, I have normal house hold tools but no power tools (apart from my drill!) I have laid stick down tiles before and just used a utility knife in my bathroom, I am not new to DIY I’ve done most things in my home just not proper flooring. Thanks! 

Bigphil1474

You can just use a stanley knife, preferably sharp, for straight cuts across the end. Score with a straight edge multiple times, then snap off the end, similar to trimming plaster board, then cut off the adhesive cover. Last time I did curves was years ago, and I used a Jigsaw but it was only a small section. You can use a jigsaw for cutting straight cuts too, but my Jigsaw straight cuts were never very straight. You might want something like a circular saw for straight cuts length ways, or try and avoid them if you can.

Your best bet is to Google it and watch some Youtube videos - easier than trying to explain.

diveunderthebonnet

If you use a jigsaw fit a very fine blade ( more teeth ) as this will make a neater cut ,it will do your curved cut as well . 

the_lunatic_is_in_my_head

For the jigsaw.

https://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/B01MSPCJB6/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1

You should be able to get a neat cut with a steady hand but usually the cuts are hidden either under the skirting/door frames or under scotia beading if the skirting isn't being removed. 

If you use a circular saw or chop saw you might find the LVT dulls you blade, the heat might also cause plastic to stick to the sides of the blade. 

Regardless best off using a good mask when cutting  

grumpy_codger

I'm sorry for stating the obvious, but If it's a jigsaw, It's better to cut the planks upside down.

Personally, I'd use a basic saw with sharp fine teeth, but if it's a power tool, I'd use a circular saw. For a hand-held circular saw the the above advice still stands.