How to Cut Curves in Cement Board

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How to Cut Curves in Cement Board

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Jul 28, 2025
5:09 AM

Cutting cement board is an important skill proper tackling home renovations involving tiling, drywall replacement, or waterproof installations in areas like bathrooms or kitchens. Cement board is a tough, water-resistant material manufactured from cement and fiberglass mesh. Its rigid nature causes it to be ideal as a tile backer but in addition requires special care when cutting. Unlike regular drywall, cement board can dull tools quickly and generate harmful dust or even handled properly. Before you begin, it's important to truly have the right tools and safety gear. Common tools for cutting cement board add a carbide-tipped scoring knife, circular saw with a concrete board blade, utility knife, jigsaw, or angle grinder. Safety goggles, gloves, and a dust mask or respirator are essential to protect yourself from airborne fibers and debris.

The most straightforward method for cutting cement board may be the score-and-snap technique. Start by marking the cut line with a pen and a direct edge. Utilizing a carbide-tipped scoring knife or a power knife, firmly score along the line several times to make a deep groove. Once adequately scored, place the cement board over a company surface like a workbench with the groove aligned at the edge. Apply downward pressure to snap the board cleanly along the line. While this approach is best suited for straight cuts on thinner boards (typically ¼ inch), it's efficient, produces minimal dust, and requires fewer power tools—ideal for small projects and DIYers.

For more technical cuts, such as for instance curves or holes for plumbing and electrical outlets, power tools like jigsaws, rotary tools, or angle grinders might be necessary. A jigsaw fitted with a carbide-grit or diamond-grit blade is especially ideal for cutting shapes or curves. If you're using a circular saw for straight cuts, choose for a blade created specifically for fiber cement board in order to avoid rapid wear and excessive dust. When utilizing power tools, always cut outdoors if possible or use dust control methods like a vacuum attachment. Wetting the board lightly before cutting can also reduce airborne particles. You should be mindful never to soak the board, as excessive moisture can compromise its integrity How to Cut Cement Board.

After cutting, edges may appear rough and require light sanding with a masonry sanding block or rasp to get rid of splinters or unevenness. This task ensures a much better fit and cleaner finish, especially in visible areas. Clean off any dust and debris before installation to market better adhesion if you're applying thin-set mortar or tape. When attaching cement board, always follow the manufacturer's guidelines, using corrosion-resistant screws and spacing them correctly. Remember to leave a tiny gap between sheets to allow for expansion and contraction. Properly cutting and installing cement board not only ensures structural durability but additionally enhances the longevity of one's tiling or wall finish.

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