How to cut laminate flooring lengthwise

This article is about how to cut laminate flooring lengthwise. You can choose to install laminate flooring by yourself, as to keep costs as low as possible, but you have to master a few techniques to get the job done as a professional. Cutting laminate flooring lengthwise is one of the trickiest techniques, as it requires attention, knowledge and taking proper measurements. Generally speaking, you need to cut laminate flooring lengthwise when installing the first and last rows of laminate flooring, along the walls. In order to fit the laminate planks into position, you might need to use a pull-bar.

Always install spacers (1/4 – 1/3”) along all the walls or other items of the room, as to leave enough room for expansion. As in the case of any floating flooring, the laminate planks tend to expand contract over time and due to humidity changes, therefore you must leave enough in every direction. If you don’t install spacers, the laminate flooring will create peaks. Take accurate measurements for every laminate board you install along the walls. In most of the cases the walls are not perfectly straight, therefore the width of the laminate planks will vary. We recommend you to draw the cut line on each laminate board, one by one, as to get the job done properly.

If you use a jigsaw blade with downward oriented teeth, you should place the boards with the face up. In this manner the saw won’t chip the edges and you will get proper cuts. If you have a blade with upward oriented teeth, you should place the laminate planks with the top-face down. Use a pull-bar to lock the laminate flooring boards to the rest of the rows. Check attentively the flooring and repeat the procedure if you identify gaps between the planks. See all my Premium Plans in the Shop.

Made from this plan

In order to cut laminate flooring lengthwise, you need the following:

Materials

Laminate boards
Spacers

Tools

Eye protection
Jigsaw / circular saw
Level, carpentry pencil, l-square
C-clamps, pull-bar

Tips

Use a smart setup when cutting the laminate boards
Use a blade with downward-oriented teeth, if you place the laminate board with the face up

Time

5 minutes, one cut

Drawing cut lines on laminate boards

Step 1: Place spacers along the walls. As we have already said, it is essential to leave about 1/3” around all walls, as the laminate flooring might expand due to changes in humidity.

Step 2: Lay the laminate flooring board down, making sure the tongue is oriented towards the wall. If you are going to cut it with a blade having downward oriented teeth, you should turn it with the finish face up, otherwise place it with the top-face down.

Cutting laminate flooring along wall

Step 3: Use a straight edge or another laminate flooring board to guide the jigsaw / circular saw, while doing the cut. In order to get accurate cuts, clamp the straight edge (or a laminate flooring plank) to your board, making sure the blade of the jigsaw goes exactly over the cut line, at both sides.

Step 4: Place the laminate flooring board on a sturdy surface (saw horse) and lock it into position (with several C-clamps or with the help of a friend). Last but not least, cut the laminate flooring plank, making sure you go along the straight edge.

how to cut laminate flooring lengthwise

Step 5: Lay the laminate flooring board into position, using a pull bar to connect it to the rest of the rows. Work with patience and with great care and make sure you don’t leave any gaps between the boards.

Step 6: Repeat the process by taking measurements for every laminate board and cut them in the same manner described above. Work with great care and make sure you wear eye protection during the whole procedure.

My best tips to cut laminate flooring lengthwise

Cutting laminate flooring lengthwise can be a little tricky, but with the right approach, you can get clean and precise cuts. Here are my best tips to help you do it right:

1. Use a Fine-Tooth Blade: Whether you’re using a circular saw or table saw, make sure you use a fine-tooth blade with at least 60 to 80 teeth. This helps minimize chipping and ensures a smooth, clean cut.

2. Mark Your Cut Line Clearly: Measure carefully and mark the cut line using a pencil or masking tape. The tape helps prevent the laminate from splintering and makes your cut line easier to see.

3. Cut with the Finished Side Facing Down (Circular Saw) or Up (Table Saw): When using a circular saw, cut with the finished side down to prevent surface chipping. If using a table saw, have the finished side up for a cleaner edge.

4. Go Slow and Steady: Take your time and move the saw along the cut line slowly and steadily. Rushing can lead to uneven cuts or chipping along the edges.

5. Use a Straight Edge or Guide: For long cuts, use a straight edge or saw guide to help keep your cut perfectly straight and prevent the saw from drifting off course.

By following these tips, you’ll be able to make smooth, straight cuts that fit your laminate flooring perfectly, giving your project a professional finish!

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