How to Cut Existing Laminate Flooring
Laminate floors are one of the most popular flooring choices in the United States. And it's easy to see why---laminate is inexpensive, sturdy, durable, and available in a variety of styles, colors, and shapes. It's also easy to install for the do-it-yourselfer. What's more, it's just as easy to repair. If you find a hole in your new laminate floor, you can cut the section out and replace it. Your floor will look as good as new. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
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1
Take a straight edge and draw a line lengthwise through the middle of the plank that needs to be removed, stopping about 6 inches from the top and bottom ends.
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2
From each of the four corners of the plank, trace a straight line to the end of the line you drew in step one. This will divide your laminate plank into four pieces and will be your guide when cutting. If the hole or pit in the plank is near one of the edges, you will have to take this into account when tracing your outlines.
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3
Set your circular saw at a minimal depth setting. This will depend on the thickness of your laminate flooring. You want to cut through the flooring, but not damage the subfloor.
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4
Cut along the lines you drew with your circular saw. Take caution when cutting through any pre-existing hole or crack, as this could cause the saw to jump or nudge. Guide it carefully.
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5
Use the prybar to remove the cut pieces of the plank.
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6
Repeat this process for any other pieces of flooring that you want to remove.
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Tips & Warnings
Don't forget to replace any padding or moisture barrier plastic that you cut when replacing any planks.
Be sure to wear proper safety equipment when using power tools.
