How To Cut Wet Wall Panels

Moisture-resistant wall panels offer a cost-effective and convenient solution for achieving a luxurious appearance in your bathroom. These panels are fully waterproof, making them perfect for use in bathrooms and shower rooms. One of the main advantages of PVC panels is their ease of installation, requiring only basic tools and little experience. After ensuring that your surface is suitable for installation, carefully consider your cutting plan for the panels:

Measure the wall

Begin by precisely measuring the area where you intend to install the panels. Use a tape measure to determine the exact length of your wall. If your wall is such that it would leave only a small portion of a panel at one end, it is advisable to cut your first wall panel in half before installation to achieve a more symmetrical appearance.

Pro tip: Double-check your measurements before cutting to ensure accuracy.

Here are some basics to have when preparing to cut your bathroom wall panels:

* A level and robust surface

* Adequate space for cutting panels

* Protective eyewear should be worn when using power tools.

* A pencil to mark your panels

* Level

Once you have the accurate measurements and understand the required trimming dimensions for your panels, there are several methods to contemplate.

Cutting with a fine-toothed saw

An effective method for cutting wall panels involves using a fine-toothed saw. It is advised to cut with the decorative side facing upwards when using a fine-toothed saw to prevent scratches from the saw teeth. While handheld saws offer better control, cutting too quickly can lead to an uneven edge. To achieve the best results, cut slowly. Practice on spare panels or wood beforehand to ensure you are familiar with using the saw before making the final cut.

Cutting using a jigsaw

If you lack a fine-toothed saw, you can opt to trim your PVC wall panel with a jigsaw. When using this method, ensure the panel's decorative side is facing downward. The upward motion of the jigsaw's teeth cuts more efficiently in this position, providing better protection for the design. Select a saw blade with fine teeth and practice a few cuts to adjust your speed and pressure accurately.

Cutting using a circular saw

A circular saw offers portability and is handheld, unlike a mitre saw which is stationary. With a circular saw, you have good control over movement. For increased precision and speed, consider using a track with your circular saw. The circular track saw functions similar to a large guillotine, facilitating accurate and quick trimming of your panels.

Cutting using a utility knife

Trimming your wall panels using a Stanley knife is a simple and cost-effective method suitable for those without a wide range of tools. Draw a straight line on the decorative side of your panel where you intend to trim. Gently score along the line with your cutting tool, ensuring that the knife blade is directed away from your hands and face. The panel can then be snapped along the scored line quite easily.

Fitting the panels without adhesive or fastening

After cutting each panel, it is advisable to dry fit it on the wall before applying adhesive. This step helps confirm the accuracy of your cuts and can prevent potential issues in the future.