To cut a kickboard effectively, you should use a circular saw, taking steps to protect the material and ensure a clean cut.
Cutting a kickboard, often a necessary step during kitchen or cabinet installation, requires precision and the right tools. While various saws can be used, a common and recommended method involves a circular saw with specific preparation steps.
Preparing to Cut
Before making any cuts, proper preparation is crucial for both safety and achieving a professional finish.
- Support: Use sawhorses to support the kickboard securely.
- Protection: To safeguard the front face of the kickboard from potential scratches or damage during cutting, place some cardboard underneath it. This acts as a buffer between the kickboard's surface and the sawhorses or cutting surface.
- Secure: Fasten the kickboard, along with the protective cardboard underneath, firmly to the sawhorses. This prevents movement while cutting, which is vital for accuracy.
Making the Cut with a Circular Saw
Once the kickboard is properly supported and protected, you are ready to trim it to size.
- Tool: Make use of your circular saw to perform the cut. Ensure the blade is appropriate for cutting wood or the material the kickboard is made from.
- Support the Offcut: While you're cutting with a saw, it is highly recommended to have someone to hold the offcut. This isn't just for safety; holding the part of the board that is being cut off prevents it from binding the blade or splintering as the cut is completed, helping you get a really clean cut.
By following these steps – preparing with cardboard and sawhorses, using a circular saw, and having the offcut supported – you can effectively cut your kickboard to the required length for your project.
