How to Cut Fireboard

A fireboard is a fire-resistant panel used for constructing buildings. These boards come in many types and grades and offer variable degrees of safety from fire: some types can resist fire for 60 minutes while others can resist fire for 240 minutes. They are made from a mixture of fibers and chemicals like calcium carbonate that don’t catch fire, adding to the safety of a building. If you want to fit your home or workplace with fireboards, you will need to know how to cut them in order to fit them. Follow the steps below to accurately cut your fireboard.

Step 1 - Take Appropriate Precautions

Take great care when handling a saw. Make sure that you have thoroughly read the instructions manual before you begin cutting. Also ensure that you have a firm, strong grip on the handle of the saw and that you have placed the fireboard on a stable worktable.

Never cut a fireboard without fastening it to the worktable, as it can be catapulted off the table and injure someone. Wear gloves and safety goggles while working, so that a loose splinter cannot injure you and make sure that the work place is dry.

Step 2 - Choosing the Correct TCT Circular Saw Blade

Circular blades come in many gauges. Choose the one that ensure a smooth, sharp cut. As most fireboards are not suitable for rough cuts, you will need a sharp cutting disk; one that is compatible with your hand help saw. Go to the sales representative and discuss your requirements. When you are in possession of a saw, move on the next step.

Step 3 - Prepping the Fireboard for Cutting

Use a marking tool to make guides so that you know precisely where to cut. Fix the board to the worktable by clamping it down by G-clamps and ensure that the worktable is stable for you to work on. In addition, it is useful to work in a well-lighted and ventilated area. The former improves visibility while the latter saves your lungs from the dust. After prepping the board the next step is to cut it.

Step 4 - Cutting the Fireboard

With your handheld saw gripped firmly, turn it on and approach the board vertically. Slowly, push the saw through the board and move the blade on the guides marked earlier. Do not push too hard as the blade might reach down to the worktable causing, otherwise avoidable, damage. After this, pry the boards apart at the place where the cut was made and separate the two pieces. You can use a very sharp, high quality handsaw for finer cuts but a powerful electric one is recommended.

For long pieces, it is helpful to use a table saw in place of a handheld electric saw. A table saw not only offers the additional advantage of providing a support surface for cutting but also increases the accuracy and stability of your work.