How to Cut Kitchen Counter Tops
Often the most significant barrier to installing a sink or other item in a kitchen counter top is the fear of cutting it. However, cutting a counter top is a relatively simple process that can be accomplished in less than 30 minutes with only a few tools. Does this Spark an idea?
Things You'll Need
- Pencil
- Template or heavy paper
- Electric drill
- 3/8-inch drill bit
- 2-by-4-inch boards
- Sabre saw
- Medium-course saber saw blade
Instructions
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Trace an outline of the area to be cut onto the counter top with a sharp pencil. If your are installing a sink into the counter top, place the template provided with the sink onto the desired location, then mark the portion to by cut by tracing around the template. If no template is provided for the item to be installed, measure the diameter of the item and then trace the diameter onto heavy paper. It is always better to cut the counter top in small increments to avoid having to replace it if the cut turns out to be too large.
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Drill a pilot hole anywhere inside the traced outline with an electric drill equipped with a 3/8-inch bit. This pilot hole will act as an access point for the saw to begin the cut.
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Brace the counter top from underneath to avoid damaging the remaining portion. As the counter top is cut, the weight of the cut piece will eventually cause it to break away and it could splinter or crack the rest of the counter top. Any object capable of safely supporting the weight of the counter top may be used, such as several 2-by-4 boards.
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Insert the blade of the sabre saw into the counter top, then activate the saw to begin the cut. A sabre saw is specifically designed to cut curves in wood, while the medium-course blade is strong enough to cut through the counter top while minimizing the risk of chipping it from too much bite. Cut toward any portion of the traced line, then cut along the entire line. Remove the cut section to complete the process.
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