Can anyone suggest a good way to cut small pieces (i.e. 2-4) of Hardiebacker and make it break cleanly? I can't seem to get it to break off easily unless it's bigger piece... and I was told not to use a power tool (i.e. circular saw) as it would create a ton of dust, which could be bad to breath in.
score and snap. you may have to score it several times before you snap it. if all else fails an angle grinder with a diamond blade will cut it. wear a mask for dust protection
Wet backer board as you cut it..keep water away from electrical components of saw. Dust will no be minimal.....this is a 2 man job.
This Site Might Help You. RE: cutting hardiebacker 1/2 cement board? Can anyone suggest a good way to cut small pieces (i.e. 2-4) of Hardiebacker and make it break cleanly? I can't seem to get it to break off easily unless it's bigger piece... and I was told not to use a power tool (i.e. circular saw) as it would create a ton of dust, which...
When trying to snap off the smaller pieces, it helps to lay the board on a 2x4 or other straight-cornered object, with the score line parallel and directly above the edge, and facing up. Score extra deep to help control the break. Hold the larger section of sheet tight to the 2x4, and press down on the 2-4 part, and it should hinge along the corner of the 2x4. If any small chunks stick out of the broken edge, you can rasp them off with a rasp, a utility knife, or even by rubbing the edge on rough concrete. The diamond blade method is the most sure way to create a straight cut, and does make a lot of dust, which requires wearing a dust mask, but you can also reduce the dust by holding a vacuum along the front edge of the blade as you cut, to suck up as much dust as possible.
Your right on the dust if you use a masonry blade or a diamond edged blade that you can get for a 4 saw built for this. If you want a small pc score( helps if you have the special scoring knife that scores cement board and hardi.) front AND back a few extra times for a small cut. This will work so you can just fold and break by hand. Will work for a L shape or a hole you need to cur out also. Any questions you can e mail me GL
