How to Cut Around Pipes in Beadboard Paneling

Beadboard paneling in a bathroom is used for the same aesthetic purpose as wainscoting in other areas of the home. Beadboard paneling, unlike wainscoting, provides an extra layer of moisture protection in a bathroom that is used often. There is a high chance that pipes will get in the way of this project. If this is the case, you will have to cut the beadboard paneling in order to fit it around the pipes. You want to have a clean hole that looks professional. The following article will explain how to cut the beadboard paneling to fit around the pipes.

Step 1 – Removing Pipes and Fixtures

In order to install the beadboard paneling correctly and cleanly, you will want to remove the fixtures and some pipes. Find the water shut off valve in your home, and turn off the water supply. Remove the shower head by gripping it with the adjustable wrench and then turning it to the left. Only loosen it with the wrench, and then unscrew it all the way by hand. Remove the pipes from the toilet and sink as well if they are in the way.

Step 2 – Plot the Pipes

To get the clean cut you desire you need to plot the area meticulously. Use the measuring tape to measure from the floor to the bottom of the pipe. Subtract 1/8-inch from that number, and then transfer the measurement to the beadboard paneling. Measure the width of the pipe, and intersect the vertical line you drew with it. Do this for each pipe on the panel you will be installing. Repeat with each subsequent panel.

Step 3 – Make the Circle Guides

Trying to cut the pipe holes through the beadboard paneling is easy once you have a proper guide. The intersecting horizontal and vertical lines give you a perfect starting point, but you need more guidance. You need to create a circular guide. This will give you a very accurate size of the pipe so that you can use the correct drill bit. Put the pencil in the compass. Place the needle of the compass in the center of the 2 intersecting lines. Spread the other compass leg with the pencil to the end of the horizontal line. Carefully drag the pencil around until it returns to the point where it began. Do this for each pipe hole you need to cut out.

Step 4 – Cut the Holes

Cutting the holes is simple with the guides from Step 3. Look at the drill bits that you have, and match the size closest to the circle. Insert the bit into the drill, and carefully drill out the holes. If you need to make larger holes for drains and big pipes, then you will not be able to use the drill. You will, instead, use a jigsaw to cut the hole out. Carefully follow the line you traced until you reach the other end.