Plastic corrugated roofing sheets are used widely in the world, especially in the UK. These sheets have multiple purposes because of which they are used extensively. However, the process to cut these sheets can be really hectic.
Whether you are a professional roofer or looking to follow a DIY method to cut it, you need to get the right tools. Along with this, you must follow the right steps to accomplish this task and get the expected results.
Don’t you know how you can do this? Are you looking for the right guide to follow in this regard? You have come to the right page, as we are going to share the exact comprehensive method to follow in this regard. Let’s get started and learn what you need and how to cut corrugated plastic roofing sheets.
What You Need to Cut Corrugated Plastic Roofing?
Before you move to the cutting process, it is important to focus on getting the right tools. Many people think that they can go ahead with a knife to get the task done. However, it may not be suitable because such equipment may not work properly on this type of sheet.
Here, we have listed all those tools that you need in this regard, along with the major purposes for which they will be used.
Tape Measure
One of the most basic things that you need in this regard is a tape measure. It is a basic thing without which you can’t cut the sheet with proper dimensions. Undoubtedly, this product isn’t required for the cutting phase, but it will help you in the pre-cutting phase.
Straightedge
Another basic product that you need during the cutting of corrugated plastic is a straightedge. This product will help you draw lines on the sheets properly to cut them with ease and efficiency. With the help of this product, you can ensure that no dimensional damages are made to the sheet and it is cut properly for the concerned usage.
Carbide Saw Blade
This is the main product without which you can’t go ahead with the cutting process of corrugated plastic roofs. A saw blade will help you cut the specific part of the sheet that you need for your usage.
While picking a carbide saw blade, you shouldn’t compromise on the sharpness of its blades. The reason is that low-quality blades with less sharpness not only impact your cutting experience but also damage your hands while using the saw blade forcefully.
Multipurpose Cutting Tool
Another equipment that you should keep in your kit is a multipurpose cutting tool. This specific product will help you emphasise the performance of the saw blade. Additionally, it will also help you cut the sheets normally, where the ordinary saw blade won’t work.
Steps to Cut Corrugated Plastic Roofing
We hope you have got the products that you need to cut the corrugated plastic roofing sheets by reading the above sections. It is time to learn the steps that you have to follow for smooth cutting.
In the following section, we have discussed the method step by step for the effective experience of our readers. You must consider following these steps as they are shared below with the same sequence.
Measuring & Marking
First of all, you should keep your saw and other cutting materials aside and focus on measurement. Keep in mind that this phase will decide whether the separated plastic roofing sheet part will be useful for you or not.
Therefore, it is good to inspect the place where you want to use it. You have to measure the dimensions that you want from your plastic sheet to use it perfectly for the concerned task. You must mark the sections from where you have to cut the sheets using the measurements that you have taken.
Secure the Panel for Cutting
In the next step, you should secure the plastic sheet and ensure that it is placed properly for effective and smooth cutting. It is recommended to keep it on a stable surface like a workbench to ensure there is no flexibility in the sheet while cutting.
Additionally, you can also use clamps and weights to keep the sheet in place while using the blade. It is common for a beginner to lose their grip on the sheet while cutting. Therefore, it is important to keep it in place to cut the piece in the exact dimensions that you need.
Cut the Roofing
Once you are done with the marking and placement phases, it is time to go to the cutting phase. Now, you have to pick the cutting tool and start using it to cut the sheet. While doing this, you have to maintain a specific angle between the sheet and the cutting tool.
It is good to ensure that the angle is around 45 degrees because you will be able to cut the sheet with efficiency and ease. In this angle, you won’t have to apply extensive force on your tool for cutting.
Additionally, you should ensure sharpening the blade edges after using it a few times. In simple words, you must focus on the sharpness of the blade and ensure that you are preserving it for proper cutting.
Focus on Finishing to End the Process
In the end, you have to focus on finishing the piece of the sheet you have cut. While cutting, it is common to get rough edges on the piece you have separated. Moreover, you can also see uneven areas in the piece which need to be removed before using.
It is because such areas will impact the entire look of the roofing sheet. Therefore, you must consider using the right tools, like a sharp knife, to remove such parts from the sheet and get more than expected results.
Safety Tips While Cutting Plastic Roofing
So far, you have read the right steps to follow for cutting corrugated plastic roofing sheets. We hope you can easily accomplish this task and get the right piece of the sheet for your usage. However, you must keep yourself secure while doing this, especially when you are not a professional.
For this purpose, we have shared some important safety tips that you have to follow. By following them, you can ensure that there are almost no chances of getting hurt while cutting.
Use Personal Protective Equipment
The most important thing you should focus on is personal protective equipment. Some people think that the only equipment they need is gloves because they are cutting with their hands. It is completely wrong because you need to use multiple ones in this regard.
First of all, you should take durable and sturdy gloves that can keep your hands safe even if you have touched the sharp blades. Along with this, you need to get spectacles, a protective cap, and some jackets to keep yourself safe from any unexpected situation.
Read & Follow Guidelines for Using Equipment
Another safety measure that you should keep in mind is reading the guidelines shared with every equipment or product you get for this task. In simple words, if you are using any chemical materials for cleaning the sheet or something to attach it to your place, you will have a manual with guidelines.
You must read those guidelines and follow them carefully to keep yourself safe. Along with this, you should ensure that you are using the blades carefully because you can get hurt by losing grip on them.
Try to Get a Workbench for Cutting
Last but not least, you should also try to get a workbench for effective placing of your sheet while cutting. It will not only keep you safe but also ensure that no inappropriate cut is made on the sheet.
In simple words, you can say that it will enhance your overall corrugated plastic roofing sheet cutting experience.
Conclusion
By reading this blog, you must have learned the method to follow for cutting corrugated plastic roofing sheets. We have discussed the process in detail as well as shared a brief overview of the tools that you need.
It is highly recommended to follow the safety tips that we have mentioned to avoid any damage to your body. With this, you will be able to cut the sheets by following the DIY method and use them wherever you need.