How to Cut Fiber Cement Board

Fiber cement board is an alternative to wood or vinyl siding. Fiber cement board is relatively uncomplicated to install and adds to the insulation value of your house. Fiber cement board is made from recycled materials. To cut this material takes only a few minutes, a couple of tools, and a little know how.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Fiber cement board
• Tape measure
• Carpenter's pencil
• Large carpenter's speed square
• Razor knife
• Leather work gloves
• Safety glasses

1. Measure the space to be covered with the fiber board. Pull your tape measure across your cement fiber board, find that measurement and make a "V" mark, or crow's foot.

2. Lay your speed square onto the fiber board at the mark. Draw a line with your pencil that extends all the way across the board.

3. Hold your speed square firmly in place. Make a shallow cut across the measurement line while using your speed square as a guide. Set aside the square.

4. Hold the board firmly, and make a deeper cut into the first, shallow cut. Make a third cut so that the scrap end of the board is hanging by the paper backing. Fold the two pieces of board so that they form a 45-degree angle, and finish your cut from the back of the board.

Tips & Warnings

• Razor knives pose a cut hazard. Please use caution and common sense when using this or any other knife.
• Always wear proper safety equipment, such as safety glasses and leather work gloves, when using tools.

References

• Information on Fiber Cement Boards Installation.