cutting formica table top?

[nikwax]

I need to shorten my table, which is formica over 3/4 ply, and I'd prefer to use the table saw. I've only cut formica with a jig saw so no idea how to cut it with the table saw. I'm concerned about shattering the formica. I'm thinking that I could reverse the blade and run top through to score the formica, then run it through with the blade normally. But that may be a bad idea.



????????

[Ageless]

Bad idea!

You need a fine tooth trim blade

[jeep_bluetj]

I'd never run a carbide tipped blade backwards, as the possibility of small razor-sharp chunks-o-carbide flying about would concern me greatly.

So yuppers -- use a fine tooth blade (like a 80 tooth or so, I'd use a 60 'cause I don't own an 80 that fits my saw.)

Raise the blade up pretty high, and feed with the formica on top (i.e. cut down on the formica)

Chipping will be kept to a minimuim, won't be perfect, but it'll be pretty decent.


Other way to do it cut it about 1/4" too long with the table saw (as above). Then set the blade just shy of fully cutting through, (i.e. cut 5/8" deep on a 3/4" table). Then just use a laminate trimmer bit on a router to trim off the formica and the teeny bit of table still there. It'll be perfect.

[WesGrimes]

What they said, plus put a layer of painters tape over the cut line. It will help keep chipping and splintering down.

[Larwyn]

I've ripped a few counter tops down to size on the table saw, just used a good plywood (fine tooth) blade and all came out well. Turn the good side up, feed smoothly and go for it, if the blade is sharp it will be fine.

[nikwax]

thanks all..80 toother it is :-)

[Chris D]

Invert or flip over so saw blade is turning into formica ,clamp strait edge and cut with fine tooth carbide blade and skill saw. Works every time

Chris D

[john]

I'm with Chris D. Works better than a table saw.

[bobhenry]

Invert or flip over so saw blade is turning into formica ,clamp strait edge and cut with fine tooth carbide blade and skill saw. Works every time

Chris D

I agree good sharp fine tooth blade in my circular saw and cut from back side with a straight edge. Don't be stingey with the masking tape on the good side either.

[Larwyn]

Not much difference in the table saw method and the skill saw method. Just a matter of whether you want to push the saw across the counter top or push the counter top across the saw. Last one I cut with a skill saw, I ended up straightening it up on the table saw.

[john]

I find it easier to handle a saw than a piece of counter top and the results are better as a result.

On the other hand, if my table saw had a proper table I would do my cuts on the table saw.
My table is about 2' long and 6" wide.

The difference is about as far as it is wide.