If you have ever tried to cut a kick plate, then you know that it’s not exactly the easiest thing in the world. Getting the right measurements and angles can be difficult, and even worse, getting that perfect finish requires a lot of patience and skill.
Luckily, there is an easier way! Cutting kick plates doesn’t have to be tricky or difficult. With just a few tools and some preparation time, you can get your kick plates looking great again with ease. Here is how you can easily cut a kick plate:
What is a Kick Plate?
A Kick plate is a piece of protective metal that goes along the front edge of your flooring. They are used to protect the bottom of your wall from scuff marks and other damage when people walk in front of it. They are often used with tile flooring and hardwood floors, since they’re both hard surfaces that are easy to scuff and damage. Kick plates are usually made of a thick, durable metal, such as steel or aluminum. Kick plates often have a decorative edge on them, such as a scrolled edge, or they may be completely smooth. The decorative edge is often painted to match the colour scheme of the room, but the bottom portion of the kick plate is left unpainted.
How To Cut Kick Plate
The Tools You Will Need
- Tape Measure – This is used to measure and mark the length of your kick plate. – Marking Pen or Pencil – You can use either a pen or pencil to mark the kick plate.
- Square or Framing Square – This is used to make sure that your corners are square and that your measurements are even.
- Dremel Tool – This is a rotary tool that is used to cut the edges off of your kick plate.
- Angle Grinder – This is a high-powered rotary tool that you can use to cut your kick plate.
- Circular Saw – This is a standard power saw that you can use to cut your kick plate.
- Sanding Block and Sandpaper – This is used to sand down the edges of your kick plate after you cut it.
Mark and Measure for Your Cut
First, you need to mark the area where you want to cut your kick plate. Mark the width and length of the area, and also mark the area where the wall meets the floor. You need to make sure that you get all three measurements accurately. This will ensure that your kick plate fits perfectly where you want it to go. Next, use your square to make sure that the measurements are even and accurate. You’ll want to mark the front of the kick plate. This way, you will know where to place your cut. Use your marking pen or pencil to mark the edge of the kick plate. Be sure to go through two layers of the kick plate so that you can see your mark on both sides.
How to Cut a Kick Plate with a Dremel Tool
This method is by far the easiest and quickest way to cut a kick plate. It is also the least messy. You can use a Dremel or an oscillating tool to cut the edges off of your kick plate. Just set the cutting wheel to the width of your kick plate, and line up your kick plate against the edge. Squeeze the trigger on the Dremel, and it will do the cutting for you! This method works best with a thick or hard kick plate. You can use this method to cut a kick plate made out of steel, aluminum, or stainless steel.
How to Cut a Kick Plate with an Angle Grinder
This is a great method if you are cutting a thin or soft kick plate, such as one made out of rubber. An angle grinder is a powerful rotary tool that can easily cut soft kick plates. You can turn the grinding wheel on the angle grinder to the width of your kick plate, and then run the edge of the grinder along the edge of your kick plate to cut it. Be careful if you are using this method since kick plates are often under a lot of pressure. This means that they are difficult to cut through. You can put your kick plate in a vise to hold it steady, or you can put a piece of wood or cardboard between the kick plate and the vise so that you don’t damage the edge.
How to Cut a Kick Plate with a Circular Saw
If you are cutting a kick plate made out of hard or thick material, then you can use a circular saw to cut it. This is the most common tool that people use to cut kick plates. You can use a circular saw to cut a kick plate made out of steel, aluminum, or stainless steel. You can also use this method to cut a soft kick plate. To use the circular saw, set the blade width to the width of your kick plate. Make sure you set the blade depth for about 2/3 of the thickness of your kick plate. Slowly move the blade of the saw along the edge of the kick plate until it cuts through. You may need to go over it a few times, especially if your kick plate is made out of steel.