How to Cut Cement Board with a Multi-Tool

How to Cut Cement Board with a Multi-Tool

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One of the most common uses for cement board is to make a durable, water-resistant backing for tiles commonly installed in bathrooms, especially shower walls. It’s also commonly used for exterior finishing since painted cement board is highly resistant to weather.

So, when you need to cut those notches, angles, and holes for bathroom fixtures, lighting, or electrical openings it can be challenging without the right tools. That said, with the right tools and techniques, cutting cement board can be precise and easy.

We’re looking at the oscillating multi-tool as one of the best options and providing some guidelines below on how to use it properly.

Is an Oscillating Multi-Tool the Best Tool for Cutting Cement Board?

Multi-Tool Because of its low-impact precision, the versatile multi-tool can be a great option for small or detailed cuts such as openings for plumbing or electrical features.

A multi-tool is not ideal for long cuts or cutting large sections of cement board. This is mainly due to the fine blades and small degree of blade motion – it takes more time to work through dense material.

To make long cuts, you can score cement board with a sharp utility knife and break it along the lines or use a more suitable power tool such as a circular saw, angle-grinder, or jigsaw. Whichever method you use, you’ll need to make sure to use the correct blade type.

Since we’re focusing on the multi-tool, let’s get into a little more detail on how to use it properly.

What Type of Attachment Should You Use for Cutting Cement Board?

Cement board is made of Portland cement, fine aggregates, and fiber reinforcement.

Because of the density of the material, you will need to use a carbide-tipped metal or multi-surface cutting blade. A wood cutting blade could quickly become damaged or ruined while cutting cement board.

Carbide blades for the multi-tool can have a rounded shape or straight edge. A straight carbide tooth plunge blade will offer the best cutting power and precision while lasting longer than other options.

How to Cut Cement Board with a Multi-Tool

Now let’s go over the steps on getting the job done. Cutting with the multi-tool is fairly straight-forward. However, there are a few tips and tricks you might want to look at here before beginning.

Step 1: Preparation and Safety

The first step you’ll want to take is to make sure your carbide blade is securely fixed in the multi-tool and take safety precautions such as wearing safety glasses.

Cutting cement board can be dusty, and particles may easily break away as you work.

Step 2: Accurately Measure and Mark

Measure and mark your material clearly before cutting to keep notches, angles, or pieces close-fitting and accurate. And, remember that if you are making long cuts, you may want to use another tool such as a circular saw.

Step 3: Cut

With your multi-tool running at high speed, you can hold it at a slight angle to begin your plunge cut. Then finish your cut following your lines while maintaining your angle against the marks.

 Mistakes to Avoid, Tips & Tricks

Sometimes, you could have trouble maintaining a straight cut along your marks. A favorite trick to avoid this problem is turning the multi-tool upside down. Looking down the blade at your marks instead of looking over the tool handle can also help keep your blade cutting squarely into the material.

Below are some more tips worth keeping in mind:

  • If you are cutting out a square or rectangular shape, you can drill holes in each corner to have clean starting and stopping points and avoid having the blade cut outside your marked area.
  • Since cutting cement board can be dusty, it helps to have a fan, or at least good ventilation as you work. This will help you maintain clear vision and avoid breathing harmful dust as you go.
  • Have a few backup blades ready. In case something should happen, and your blade gets damaged or ruined. Preparation could save a lot of time, and it’s always a good idea to have a stand-by.
  • If possible, accurately measure and mark your cuts before installing the cement board to avoid damaging anything such as electric lines or plumbing behind the cement board.

Summary

Cement board is durable, versatile, and easy to install. Having an efficient plan in place makes the job much more efficient. Having the proper tools in place is going to make all the difference.

It’s always wise to do your research before cutting a material such as cement board. Cutting tools can quickly become damaged without the proper type of blade. Instead of taking a chance, check the specifications and recommendations of a blade before using it to cut cement board.

The oscillating multi-tool is a favorite for speed, accuracy, and ease of use. Taking a few precautions and using the recommended blades will definitely keep you using this tool job after job.