Hi all,
I used to use Durock or Den Shield for all my tile jobs and then decided to try HardiBacker because I’ve heard good things. I’ve had a hell of a time cutting this stuff quickly and precisely. I went to the website and checked out their installation video but the “easy score and snap” method doesnt seem to go too easily for me.
Seems simple enough, score along a straight edge with a carbide tipped tool and snap upwards. But they make it look a lot easier on the website photos (obviously).
What am i doing wrong?
Thanks
mike
Replies
I cut it with a circular saw. It makes a lot of dust so you have to do it out side. You can use one of those black concrete blades that cost about $4 or Hardibacker makes a 7 1/4 blade, it only has about 4 teeth on it and it works well.To cut holes such as the diverter I mark the circumference then drill holes about 1/2 inch apart all the way around then use a key hole saw and it pops right out.
I cut holes witha jigsaw and a carbide grit blade (outside).
Forrest
Hey Mike. Don't know why the score and snap isn't working for you. I use the carbide tool and snap method. If you want to give it another try before switching to the circ saw, one thing I do that I'm not sure if they tell you is that it takes several passes with the tool a lot of pressure to score deep enough to get a good snap.
If you're still having trouble, put a piece of 2x under the sheet so the edge of the 2x is at the score line. Gently bend the sheet down at the score line and then pull it back up. You should get a pretty clean break at the score line.
The carbide tool is also ideal to clean any t-set squeeze out from the grout lines prior to grouting. I've abused the heck out of mine for years and it's still dangerously sharp.
"A job well done is its own reward. Now would you prefer to make the final payment by cash, check or Master Card?"
Thanks guys. Guess I just need more practice. The circ saw sounds good for bigger jobs. I heard the dust is pretty dangerous? Do you guys take any other precautions other than going outside?
You need to use a carbide cutter, similar to those used to cut acrylic. The cutter has a"T" style head so it has 2 carbide tips. They come with red or blue plastic handles. Maybe other colors too.I score the Hardibacker about 5-6 times before I try to "snap". It is not as quick going as cement board, but cutting holes in it is much cleaner.FThere he goes—one of God's own prototypes—a high powered mutant of some kind never even considered for mass production. Too weird to live and too rare to die.—Hunter S. Thompson
from Fear And Loathing In Las Vegas
Mike,I use my PC siding shears. Works great, no dust, quick.KK