Cutting cement board is an essential skill for everyone tackling home renovations involving tiling, drywall replacement, or waterproof installations in areas like bathrooms or kitchens. Cement board is a durable, water-resistant material made from cement and fiberglass mesh. Its rigid nature helps it be ideal as a hardwood 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 start, it's important to have the right tools and safety gear. Common tools for cutting cement board include 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 important to protect yourself from airborne fibers and debris.

The most straightforward method for cutting cement board could be the score-and-snap technique. Begin by marking the cut line with a pencil and a straight edge. Using a carbide-tipped scoring knife or a power knife, firmly score across the line many times to make a deep groove. Once adequately scored, place the cement board over a company surface just like a workbench with the groove aligned at the edge. Apply downward pressure to snap the board cleanly across 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 complex cuts, such as for example curves or holes for plumbing and electrical outlets, power tools like jigsaws, rotary tools, or angle grinders may be necessary. A jigsaw fitted with a carbide-grit or diamond-grit blade is particularly helpful for cutting shapes or curves. If you're using a circular saw for straight cuts, choose for an edge specifically designed for fiber cement board 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 may also reduce airborne particles. You need to 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 better fit and cleaner finish, especially in visible areas. Clean off any dust and debris before installation to promote 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. Make sure to leave a tiny gap between sheets to support expansion and contraction. Properly cutting and installing cement board not merely ensures structural durability but additionally enhances the longevity of one's tiling or wall finish.