
USG Durock® Brand Cement Board with EdgeGuard™ panels should be cut to size with a knife and straightedge. A power saw should be used only if it is equipped with a dust collection device. Always wear a NIOSH/MSHA- approved mask and eye protection when cutting USG Durock® Brand panels.
How do you cut cement board with a straight edge?
Lay your cement board flat, and draw a line with a carpenter’s pencil where you intend to cut. Then, place a straightedge along the line and drag either a drywall utility knife or a scoring tool against it. Repeat your cuts two to three times to make them deeper, which will make snapping the board easier.
How do you cut Durock board?
Durock is simply a brand of cement board. The simplest way to cut concrete wallboard or cement backer board is not to use power tools at all. Similar to the way drywall is cut, it is possible to score the cement backer board and snap it along that scoreline. It is possible to use a drywall knife to score a cement backer board.
What is edgeguard cement board with edgeguard™?
Durock® Brand Cement Board with EdgeGuard™ cuts easily and installs quickly with Durock™ Brand Tile Backer Screws, self-drilling fasteners or nails. Durock® Brand Cement Board with EdgeGuard™ is the industry standard for performance and reliability. If playback doesn't begin shortly, try restarting your device. Full screen is unavailable.
How to cut cement backerboard?
Cutting cement backerboard for different types of holes is easy to do with the right tools. Use a scoring knife, a jigsaw, and drill bit to cut cement backerboard. Just make sure you wear eye protection when cutting cement backerboard or drilling cement backer board. Category Howto & Style.

What is the best tool to cut cement board?
The simplest way to cut cement backer board is to score the surface and snap the sheet along the scored line, similar to the way you'd cut drywall. In fact, you can use a drywall utility knife to score backer board, but a better option is a carbide-tipped scoring tool.
What's the easiest way to cut cement board?
0:144:55How to Cut Cement Board - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipGave us a clean cut next up we have a scoring knife it costs about 8 bucks and it's made to cutMoreGave us a clean cut next up we have a scoring knife it costs about 8 bucks and it's made to cut cement backer board same thing as the last time I'm going to line it up.
What kind of blade do you use to cut cement board?
Use a carbide-tipped wood-cutting blade to minimize dust. Cement is a very hard material, so you'll need to use a blade that can handle the material. Carbide-tipped wood-cutting blades have fewer teeth than other circular saw blades and the carbide can withstand the strain of the cement.
Do you need a special saw to cut cement board?
Circular saws, while more often used to cut wood, can also make quick and clean cuts in cement board—and are often conveniently on hand in the workshops of DIY-savvy homeowners.
Can you use a multi tool to cut cement board?
0:020:54How to cut cement board with a multi-tool - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipThings to do with a multi-tool i've got a 35 millimeter carbide tip blade it's actually a metalMoreThings to do with a multi-tool i've got a 35 millimeter carbide tip blade it's actually a metal buster. But the guys at smart discovered that this is ideal in cement board check this.
Can you cut Hardie board with a regular saw blade?
You can use a jigsaw, table saw or circular saw, or another tool, as long as it's equipped with the right kind of blade. Once prepared, cut the Hardie board as you would any other material. Mark your line; align the board against the guard as needed and slowly but firmly make the cut.
How do you cut cement board without dust?
2:5813:55HOW TO CUT CEMENT BOARD WITHOUT DUST - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipAnd just that motion alone creates an ideal scenario to kind of whip up dust and throw it everywhereMoreAnd just that motion alone creates an ideal scenario to kind of whip up dust and throw it everywhere which is less than ideal when we're talking about a dust that can be potentially harmful to us.
How do you cut cement board with a grinder?
1:584:22Best Way to Cut Cement Board - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipSo let me demonstrate it with what I think is the best use of this diamond disc wheel by Lennox IMoreSo let me demonstrate it with what I think is the best use of this diamond disc wheel by Lennox I have one mounted here as you can see this one's been quite well used on this Bosch grinder.
How do you cut a 5'8 cement board?
1:117:44The Best Ways To Cut Cement Backerboard - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipYou can get a utility knife or you can even get a card but a carbide cutter score the backer boardMoreYou can get a utility knife or you can even get a card but a carbide cutter score the backer board on a mark.
How do you cut Durock cement board?
To cut DUROCK Next Gen Cement Board, measure the desired size on the board and mark on the front and back with a pencil. Score with a utility knife, cut through the glass-fiber mesh then snap the board to size. Smooth edges with wood rasp. Wear a dust mask and eye protection.
Can you cut cement board with a hand saw?
While power saws make it a lot easier, it is possible to cut cement boards by hand.
What is the best way to cut Durock cement board?
To cut DUROCK Next Gen Cement Board, measure the desired size on the board and mark on the front and back with a pencil. Score with a utility knife, cut through the glass-fiber mesh then snap the board to size. Smooth edges with wood rasp. Wear a dust mask and eye protection.
How do you cut Hardie board without dust?
0:598:08How to SAFELY cut Hardie Board without dust! Using a Makita Track ...YouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipThemselves you can't beat these they fit in everything. So it just slips right into the back of theMoreThemselves you can't beat these they fit in everything. So it just slips right into the back of the makita track saw. So here we've got a sheet of hardy panel. This is a cement fiber product.
What is the best way to cut cement boards?
While you can cut cement boards using a variety of methods, we’ll cover the 2 most popular — using a circular saw and using a jigsaw. Circular saws are mostly used for cutting straight lines, while jigsaws are used to cut circular or irregular shapes.
How to cut a board with a circular saw?
Place the front side of the board on the sawhorse and the base of the circular saw on the board. Then, align the line you drew on the board with its cutting guide .
Why does a cement cutting blade have to be at full speed?
This is the same for all the different kinds of blades and methods: the blade has to be at full speed so it can use the additional force from the high velocity to cut the hard cement without breaking the blade and potentially causing injuries.
When cutting irregular shapes, remember to drill holes at the tightest corners?
When cutting irregular shapes, remember to drill holes at the tightest corners so that the jigsaw blade does not struggle to cut through them. This movement can easily break the blade.
What is the best tool to mark lines?
Use a carpenter’s pencil to mark the lines you need to saw along to get the shape you want. This is especially important for complicated or intricate irregular shapes and circles.
Can you use a pencil to cut cement?
Regardless, ensure you always wear eye and respiratory protection gear when cutting cement boards. This fine dust is dangerous. Avoid using a regular pencil to draw the guidelines on the cement board. Cement is hard and will dull after only a few lines. Use a carpenter’s pencil instead.
Can you cut cement board with a sawhorse?
Make sure both halves of the cement board are secure on the sawhorse such that neither of them will fall to the floor after you cut the board. This could cause injuries and, at the very least, break the fallen piece. For the jigsaw, have a few extra blades close by because you may have to replace the blade after cutting through the cement board.
How to cut a hole in cement board?
If the hole is small enough, the simplest way to cut a hole is to use a carbide-tipped hole saw and a highly reviewed and rated drill. First, draw the outline of your hole on your cement board with a compass.
What saw to use to cut cement backer?
As long as you’re making a straight cut, the circular saw makes for a great method to cut cement backer.
What is the thickness of cement backer board?
Cement backer board comes in several thicknesses, much like drywall , and is generally made in thicknesses of 1/4”, 7/16”, 1/2”, and 5/8”. You’ll use the thinner boards in areas like countertops. You’ll use the thicker boards behind the shower and kitchen walls.
What does cement backer board look like?
The cement backer board looks and feels somewhat like drywall. You can think of it as its cousin.
How to score a backer board?
Begin by laying your backer board out on a flat surface and mark the line where you’d like to score the board. You can do this with a carpenter’s pencil or use a chalk line. When it’s time to make the cut, set a straightedge across your sheet. Use a level, yardstick, or a leftover piece of scrap lumber.
What is cement board used for?
Cement board is one of the most useful home improvement inventions of the 20th century. It is used as a tile backing board in places where moisture is common, such as your kitchen or bathroom. Once you learn how to cut cement board, you will be able to add walling and tilework to your home.
What is the perk of a hardie board?
One perk of the Hardie board is that it comes standard with perforated groves on standard lines, and because of that, cutting the Hardie board is easy .
What is the best tool to cut cement board?
For cuts that are a little more smooth and efficient, turn to power tools. Circular saws, while more often used to cut wood, can also make quick and clean cuts in cement board—and are often conveniently on hand in the workshops of DIY-savvy homeowners. Fit your circular saw with a carbide-tipped wood-cutting blade ( view example on Amazon ), choosing one with as few teeth as possible in order to minimize the amount of dust given off as you saw. Operate your circular saw as you typically would, pushing it slowly and evenly through your cement backer board.
What to do before cutting cement backer board?
Before you get started, be sure to don both eye goggles and a respirator mask.
How to use a jigsaw for a masonry job?
When utilizing a jigsaw for the job, it’s important to first mark the board with a carpenter’s pencil for guidance. Start the process by drilling a hole with a masonry bit, then use the jigsaw to expand it and continue the work .
What drill do you use to drill a masonry bit?
One method involves using an electric drill fitted with a masonry bit. Since masonry bits come in a variety of sizes, it is easy to pick one up in the exact size needed.
Can you cut round holes with a jigsaw?
While cutting round holes with a jigsaw is more challenging than using a masonry bit, the process allows for a more custom hole size.
Can you use cement board for tile?
Do-it-yourself types depend on cement backer board for numerous projects, including tiled walls, flooring, and even countertops. Stronger than plywood and less susceptible to damage from rot, cement backer board makes for a reliable, more durable building material than wood. Its strength and cement construction, however, present more challenges than wood-based materials do when it comes time to do the cutting. Fortunately, equipped with the right tools, techniques, and a little patience, you can slice through this sturdy material.
How to hold bottom edge of shower pan off?
Place a 1/4 in. (6 mm) spacer strip or shim around lip of bathtub or shower pan to hold bottom edge of panel off the fixture.
How to apply latex fortified mortar?
Apply latex-fortified mortar or Type 1 organic adhesive with a notched trowel. Hold trowel at an angle to maintain uniform thickness. Refer to setting material manufacturer for specific information related to trowel type and size.
How far apart should counter tops be?
Fit ends and edges of panels closely but not forced together, maintaining 1/4 in. countertops: fasten with (6 mm). space between panels and perimeter walls. Stagger joints a minimum 16 in. (406 mm) so four corners never meet. Offset panel joints a minimum 8 in. (203 mm) from subfloor joints.
How to apply organic adhesive?
Apply Type 1 organic adhesive with 5/32 in. (5 mm) v-notched trowel, latex-fortified mortar with 1/4 in. (6 mm). square-notched trowel. Comb out adhesive or mortar in straight, parallel rows (as shown below) and immediately cover with panel. Adhere panels to subfloor, one panel at a time.
Can you use mastic on Durock cement board?
See SDS for more information. NOTE: USG Durock® Cement Board with EdgeGuard™ has a rough side and a smooth side. The smooth side is ideal for mastic applications, as it increases adhesive coverage. The rough side is ideal for mortar applications, as it enhances bonding and reduces tile slip. However, mastic or thin-set mortar can be used on either side of the board without compromising performance.
What is the purpose of the smooth side of a cement board?
The purpose of the dual surfaces (one smooth side, one textured side) on USG Durock® Brand Cement Board is to better receive mastic and thin-set mortar. The smooth side is ideal for mastic applications, as it increases adhesive coverage. The textured side is ideal for mortar applications, as it enhances bonding and reduces tile slip. That said, mastic or thin-set mortar can be used on either side of the board without compromising performance.
What is Durock cement board?
Durock® Brand Cement Board with EdgeGuard™ offers architects, builders and tile contractors a strong, water-durable tile backerboard for floors, walls, countertops, tub, shower areas and exterior finish systems. Durock® Brand Cement Board with EdgeGuard™ offers enhanced, proprietary edge performance, preventing spinout and crumbling. This mold resistant tile backer makes it the perfect choice for tile and flooring in baths, kitchens and laundry rooms in new construction and remodeling. Durock® Brand Cement Board with EdgeGuard™ cuts easily and installs quickly with Durock™ Brand Tile Backer Screws, self-drilling fasteners or nails.
Does Durock cement board matter?
No, it doesn't matter. Regardless of which side faces out during installation, you can expect the same great performance that has made USG Durock® Brand Cement Board the preferred choice of professionals and do-it-yourselfers for decades.
How to cut Durock wood?
Unlike cutting wood, the less teeth, the less dust when cutting Durock. Use a straightedge and carpenter's pencil to plot out the cut line, then set the board up on sawhorses or over the edge of an outdoor work surface to make the cuts. Saw along the line slowly and evenly. Wear long sleeves and pants to protect yourself from dust, along with protective eyewear, gloves and a respirator.
How to make a straight cut on Durock?
To make a straight cut along a sheet of Durock, mark the desired cutting points with a carpenter's pencil. Measure and mark the starting and ending points for the cut, then line these up with a large, sturdy straightedge. Drag a scoring tool or sharp utility knife along the cut line, up against the straightedge.
How to cut a round hole in a circle?
Cut wider round holes with a hole-saw bit or by drilling a series of holes around the circle's perimeter with a masonry bit, then connecting the cutouts with a jigsaw outfitted with a carbide or metal-cutting blade. Smoothing out rough edges usually isn't necessary since Durock is an underlayment, but if it is necessary, do it with a file.
What is the best tool to cut Durock?
A circular saw with a carbide-tipped woodcutting blade is the best tool for the job. Opt for a blade with as few teeth as possible. Unlike cutting wood, the less teeth, the less dust when cutting Durock. Use a straightedge and carpenter's pencil to plot out the cut line, then set the board up on sawhorses or over the edge ...
How to make a non circular cutout?
Make non-circular cutouts by plotting out the area with a carpenter's pencil, then scoring the area with a sharp utility knife. Slice through the fiberglass mesh with the knife, then tap a hammer within the lines to pop the piece loose. Another option is to drill a few holes along the inner perimeter of the pencil line, then cut along the line with a jigsaw, starting in one of the holes.
What is the best tool for wood cutting?
Use power tools on large projects or thick Durock to muscle through the process with ease. A circular saw with a carbide-tipped woodcutting blade is the best tool for the job. Opt for a blade with as few teeth as possible.
What to do before cutting Durock?
Before cutting Durock or any cement backer board, set up a work area outdoors. This specialty board produces a very fine silica dust that can be harmful if inhaled or if it gets in your eyes. Wear a respirator, eye protection and work gloves when cutting Durock, noting the wind direction ahead of time.
