A lot of people tend to underestimate the proper way how to cut roll insulation, thinking that it’s easy and everyone can do it. The cutting process may be easy and straightforward, but it also takes a certain technique to do it right.
Basically, you need the right combination of techniques, tools, and precautions to end up with accurate and clean cuts.
Can You Cut Insulation with Scissors?
Before you start cutting your roll insulation, you need to know that there are certain tools (the right ones, of course) you need to have if you want to cut the roll. Don’t forget the safety gear too. The tools and protective gear are:
- Insulation cutting knife or the utility knife
- Permanent marker
- Tape measure
- Sharp shears or scissors
- Safety goggles
- Safety gloves
- Respiratory mask or protective dust mask
- Protective clothing, including long sleeves shirt, long pants, and thick gloves
Basically, you need to have sharp tools to cut the roll. Some advise using a serrated knife, like a bread knife or household shears. Regular scissors can also do it, provided they are sharp enough.
But you should also know that this action can dull your knife or shears, so you can always buy the inexpensive tool at the store.
How to Cut a Roll of Insulation in Half
Knowing how to cut roll insulation ensures you can achieve clean and accurate results, but you don’t have to be involved in too many technical arrangements.
Read also: Step by Step on How to Cut Rigid Foam Insulation
- First of all, you need to measure and make the marking. Lay the roll on the flat and clean the surface flat.
- By using a measuring tape, determine the length.
- Afterwards, you need to mark the line. Make sure to do it accurately by using a marker.
- Don’t forget to secure the roll. It’s done to prevent it from moving or shifting. Use clamps or other heavy objects to ensure it won’t budge.
Importance of Clean Cuts
If you want to enjoy successful installation (for your insulation), then it’s highly crucial that you perform a clean cut. The reasons are:
- Your cut’s precision will affect the insulation’s effectiveness directly. It will affect the optimal coverage and snug fit.
- The clean cut allows a seamless fit of insulation material between the rafters, joists, and other (structural) elements. It will reduce the risk of uneven coverage and gaps.
- The clean cut will also minimize the possibility of heat gain or loss, including drafts. These are the main concerns and problems related to insulation installation.
- Accurate and clean cuts also prevent unnecessary waste of material. It can save both resources and time during the process.
How to Achieve Clean (and Accurate) Cut
You need to do these things:
- Use straight cuts. Lay the roll on a flat surface to maintain a straight cut.
- Follow the marked lines. Only cut along the line so you can be sure that your pieces are measured accurately.
- Measure more than once. It’s advisable to measure several times to avoid wasted material and mistakes.
- Check for any tight spots. You need to measure and then accurately mark it to prevent overcutting..
- Cut the extra length. It’s always better to cut a bit longer than needed than experiencing the lack of it. Trimming the excess off is easy, but if you have too short of material, you won’t be able to add it again, leading to wasting the material.
Final Words
You can find countless sources about the proper cutting of the insulation roll. There are so many tips and tricks about how to cut roll insulation so you shouldn’t be confused.
