Cutting off the edge of a worktop (in situ).

[L_Plate]

I wish to cut off a thin section (about 0.5 – 1 cm) of the end of a worktop. The worktop is fitted in place and supports a kitchen sink so it is not practical to remove it from this position. The material is chipboard with a laminate surface. What is the best way to make this cut in situ with a view to making as straight a cut as possible? Thanks in advance for any help.

 

[xerxes]

I suggest marking the cut line, then scoring along the line very heavily with a Stanley knife against a straight edge. Then cut it with a tenon saw: a hardpoint saw would be best. Finish theb end against the wall with a chisel.

If you're going to cover the edge with an aluminium cover strip, for example, this should fit the bill. But if you're planning to butt another worktop against the cut end, it won't do. In that case you would have to consider removing the worktop and cutting it with a machine.

 

[big-all]

circular saw clean new blade straight edge double sided sticky tape one pass at 1mm second full depth

finnish to the wall with a hand saw or a jigsaw and flush cutting blade
http://www.toolstation.com/shop/Bla...s/Flush+Cutting+Blade+Wood/d120/sd2581/p46298

 

[xerxes]

Come to that, you can use a router with a straight bit.

The problem with both a circular saw and a router is that they will hit the wall before the cut is finished. The additional problem with the circular saw, if working off the left hand end of the worktop, would be keeping it level.

 

[L_Plate]

I should have said that the reason for wishing to remove this section is that a small chip in the laminate has occurred right on the edge of the worktop. Fortunately there is about 1 – 2 cm overlap from the upright of the fitted unit, so there is sufficient material to make a cut.

Xerxes: Yes, it is the left-hand side of the worktop, so your point about routers and circular saws is noted. If I can obtain an aluminium covering strip then this might negate the whole need for any removal of material after all.

Big-all: Interesting link re the specialist jigsaw blade. Might give it a try if the acs is a no-goer.

Thanks very much for the help, guys.

 

[big-all]

the blade in the link only works with jigsaws where you dont have to rotate a quarter turn to insert the blade or you are prepaired/ able to remove /replace the base plate with the blade in place

 

[chappers]

hand saw or do as someone said a 1mm back cut with a skill saw followed by a full cut as far as you can then finish off with a hand saw.

 

[deefadog]

Did you know you can get laminate repair kits, could be easier to do this. We had someone come out for a demo on our kitchen units that were scratched before we moved in and you can't tell they were there, and they were deep cuts, it's like modern day french polishers!