How to Choose the Best Saw for Cutting Laminate Flooring

Laminate flooring is a popular choice for modern homes due to its affordability, durability, and versatility. The installation process, however, requires some technical skill, especially when it comes to cutting laminate floorboards to fit around corners, doorways, and other obstacles.

A saw designed specifically for cutting laminate flooring can make this task much easier and faster, but with so many types and models of saws available, how can you choose the best one?

Jigsaw

A jigsaw with a fine blade is a versatile saw suitable for cutting laminate flooring. It can make curved, circular, and straight cuts, depending on the blade and the speed setting. A jigsaw is also lightweight and easy to maneuver, which is essential for cutting laminate flooring around corners and angles. However, it may produce rough edges that require smoothing out, and it may not be suitable for cutting thick or dense laminate flooring.

Miter Saw

A miter saw, also known as a chop saw, is a powerful and precise saw designed for making angled cuts. It can cut laminate flooring with great accuracy and speed, producing smooth and clean edges. Miter saws come in different sizes and blade types, so make sure to choose one that can handle the thickness of your laminate flooring. Also, keep in mind that miter saws are typically heavier and bulkier than jigsaws, and they require a stable work surface and a dust collection system.

Circular Saw

A circular saw is a handheld saw that can cut through various materials, including laminate flooring. It’s equipped with a carbide-tipped blade that makes quick work of laminate flooring, producing straight and precise cuts. However, circular saws require some skill and attention to use, as they can easily damage or chip the edges of laminate flooring. Also, circular saws are noisy and generate a lot of dust, so make sure to wear earplugs and a mask when using them.

Table Saw

A table saw is a powerful saw that can make straight and beveled cuts through a wide range of materials. It’s ideal for cutting long and wide strips of laminate flooring, as it provides a stable and accurate cutting surface. A table saw can also handle thick and dense laminate flooring that other saws may struggle with. However, table saws are bulky and expensive, and they require significant space and maintenance. Also, table saws can be dangerous if not used properly, so make sure to read the instructions and follow safety guidelines.

Laminate Shears

Laminate shears are a specialized tool designed specifically for cutting laminate flooring. They work by shearing the material instead of cutting it, which produces clean and smooth edges that require no further finishing. They are also lightweight, quiet, and easy to use. However, laminate shears may not be suitable for cutting complex shapes or thick laminate flooring, as they have a limited cutting capacity. Also, laminate shears can be expensive, and they may not replace the need for a saw entirely.

Conclusion

Choosing the right saw for cutting laminate flooring depends on various factors, such as the type and thickness of your laminate flooring, the complexity of your cuts, and your personal preferences. Jigsaws, miter saws, circular saws, table saws, and laminate shears are all viable options, and each has its advantages and limitations.

We recommend selecting the saw that fits your needs and budget the most and always following safety guidelines when operating any power tool.