What’s the best way to cut luxury vinyl tile?

Installing luxury vinyl tile (LVT) can transform any room with its realistic stone and wood looks. But before enjoying your new waterproof flooring, you need to cut the tiles to fit perfectly. Cutting LVT requires some specific tools and techniques to get clean, precise cuts without damaging the tiles.

Should You Use a Utility Knife or Power Saw?

There are two main options for cutting LVT – a simple utility knife or a power saw. Here’s an overview of the pros and cons of each:

Utility Knife

A sharp utility knife is an inexpensive and easy way to cut vinyl tiles. It gives you great control over the cut and reduces the chance of chipping the tile. However, cutting an entire floor with a utility knife will be time-consuming and require a very steady hand.

A utility knife excels at:

• Making straight cuts
• Trimming tiles to fit around obstacles
• Cutting small pieces

Power Saw

Power saws like jigsaws and oscillating tools cut through vinyl tile fast. They can make curved, angled, or straight cuts. A power saw is the best option for cutting multiple tiles or full planks. But the fast movement can chip tiles if you aren’t careful.

Power saws are ideal for:

• Cutting several tiles at once
• Making long straight cuts
• Cutting irregular shapes

Choosing the Right Blade

The type of blade you use impacts the quality of the cut and how smoothly the saw moves through the tile. Here are some blade options:

Standard Utility Knife Blade

Standard utility knife blades work for quick, straight cuts in vinyl plank. But a sharp blade specifically for cutting vinyl will provide cleaner cuts.

Vinyl Cutter Blade

For utility knives, use a long-lasting carbide-tipped blade made for vinyl. The sharper blade produces less tearing or chipping.

Fine-Tooth Saw Blade

A blade with at least 60 teeth or finer is best for power saws. The smaller teeth result in a smoother cut. Make sure the blade is designed for masonry or vinyl.

Oscillating Tool Blade

Look for an oscillating tool wood and plastic cutting blade ideal for both tile and plank vinyl flooring.

Cutting Techniques

Follow these techniques when cutting vinyl flooring:

Use a Straightedge

The best way to ensure straight cuts is to use a straightedge as a guide. Clamp it in place for stability when using a utility knife. For power saws, hold the straightedge securely or securely attach to a saw guide.

Score and Snap Utility Knife Cuts

Don’t try to cut all the way through the tile in one pass with a utility knife. Make several light passes scoring the vinyl top layer before using the straightedge as a lever to snap the tile cleanly along the score line.

Cut Slowly and Steadily with Power Saws

Let the tool do the work. Cutting too quickly can lead to rough edges or chips. Move the saw evenly through the vinyl for the best cut.

Support the Tile Fully

Cut on a smooth, solid surface using a cutting mat for utility knife work. For power tools, butt the exposed tile edge up against a board for full support.

Keep Blade Lubricated

Dipping blades in rubbing alcohol helps lubricate the vinyl and keeps small debris from building up. Re-lubricate the blade periodically for optimal cutting.

How to Cut LVT Tile

Follow these steps when tile cutting vinyl floor tiles:

1. Measure and mark your cut lines, adding 1/8-inch clearance if fitting against walls.
2. Position a straightedge clamp across your cut marks.
3. Score the tile several times with a sharp utility knife, keeping the blade against the straightedge.
4. Flip the tile over and score the back 1-2 times.
5. Line up the straightedge over the score lines and snap the tile downward to break cleanly.
6. Place the cut edge against a scrap piece of wood and trim any roughness with the utility knife.

How to Cut LVT Planks

Here is the process for power saw cutting vinyl planks:

1. Mark your cut line, adding a 1/8-inch gap for expansion.
2. Butt the tile end against a board support.
3. Line up your saw guide or straightedge on the cut marks.
4. Use steady, even pressure to cut through the tile with a power saw.
5. Flip the plank over and make another pass to ensure a clean cut.
6. Use the utility knife to smooth any rough edges.

Tips for Cutting Vinyl Flooring

Keep these tips in mind for flawless cuts:

• Always cut from the back side when possible to avoid scratches.
• Change blades and straightedge guides often for best results.
• For circular tiles, drill a pilot hole and use a jigsaw.
• Wear safety glasses and gloves when using power tools.
• Use painter’s tape to prevent scratching tiles during cutting.
• Keep spare blades on hand since vinyl dulls edges quickly.

Conclusion

With the right tools and techniques, DIYers can cut luxury vinyl tile and plank flooring to create flawless floating floors. A combination of a utility knife for detailed cuts and an oscillating tool or jigsaw for speed gets the job done. Focus on using sharp blades, making gradual scores, and supporting the tile fully during cutting. Take your time with the cuts and you’ll end up with a beautiful vinyl floor that looks like it was professionally installed.