Cutting cement board is an essential skill for anyone 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 helps it be ideal as a tile backer but also requires special care when cutting. Unlike regular drywall, cement board can dull tools quickly and generate harmful dust if not handled properly. Before you start, it's important to 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 necessary to guard yourself from airborne fibers and debris.

The most straightforward method for cutting cement board is the score-and-snap technique. Start with marking the cut line with a pen and a straight edge. Using a carbide-tipped scoring knife or an energy knife, firmly score along the line several times to produce a deep groove. Once adequately scored, place the cement board over a strong surface such as for instance a workbench with the groove aligned at the edge. Apply downward pressure to snap the board cleanly over the line. While this technique works best for straight cuts on thinner boards (typically ¼ inch), it's efficient, produces minimal dust, and requires fewer power tools—well suited 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 especially useful for cutting shapes or curves. If you're using a circular saw for straight cuts, choose a blade specifically made for fiber cement board to prevent rapid wear and excessive dust. When using power tools, always cut outdoors if at all possible or use dust control methods like a vacuum attachment. Wetting the board lightly before cutting can also reduce airborne particles. You need to be mindful not 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 remove splinters or unevenness. This step 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. Make sure to leave a tiny gap between sheets to accommodate expansion and contraction. Properly cutting and installing cement board not just ensures structural durability but in addition enhances the longevity of one's tiling or wall finish.