What do you cut durock with

There are two basic types, both made primarily of portland cement. One type is very hard and heavy—similar to concrete—and the other is softer, lighter, and more fibrous. The one challenge DIYers face when working with cement backer board is how to cut the rock-hard panels. Fortunately, there are a few different options. A word of caution: Cutting cement backer board produces crystalline silica dust, which can irritate your eyes and lungs.

Wear eye goggles and a dual-cartridge respirator when cutting backer board. Always make the cuts outdoors and well away from open windows and doors. The simplest way to cut cement backer board is to score the surface and snap the sheet along the scored line, similar to the way you'd cut drywall. In fact, you can use a drywall utility knife to score backer board, but a better option is a carbide-tipped scoring tool. Here's how to use the scoring tool: Lay the backer board on a flat surface and mark the cut line with a carpenter's pencil.

A regular pencil will become too dull from drawing lines on such a hard surface. Set a straightedge, such as a 4-foot level or perfectly straight board, on the cut line. Kneel on one end of the straightedge. Hold the other end of the straightedge with your hand. Now draw the scoring tool along the edge of the straightedge, scratching a groove into the surface.

Repeat three or four times to deepen the groove. With a little pressure, the bit will cut its way through the backer board. A jigsaw fitted with a metal-cutting blade or carbide-grit blade can produce larger rounded cuts in addition to standard straight cuts. Start the process by drilling a hole with a masonry bit, then use the jigsaw to expand it and continue the work.

While cutting round holes with a jigsaw is more challenging than using a masonry bit, the process allows for a more custom hole size. Disclosure: BobVila. You agree that BobVila. All rights reserved. Expert advice from Bob Vila, the most trusted name in home improvement, home remodeling, home repair, and DIY.

Learn the right tools and methods to make cutting through the rock-hard material a snap. How do you screw down cement board? Tape the seams Lay cement board fiberglass mesh tape over all the seams it's sticky on one side. Use a wide putty knife or a flat trowel to spread thin-set mortar over the tape, making sure to knock down any ridges or high spots.

Can you cut durock with a circular saw? Straight Cuts With Power Tools Use power tools on large projects or thick Durock to muscle through the process with ease. A circular saw with a carbide-tipped woodcutting blade is the best tool for the job. Opt for a blade with as few teeth as possible. Saw along the line slowly and evenly. What is Durock cement board used for?

Corrosion-resistant; 8-gauge; wafer heads with countersinking ribs to prevent strip-out; self-drilling points. Is cement board fire resistant? How do you fix cement board? This will allow the patching compound to lock in behind the cement board.

Step 2: Use a clean, damp sponge to wipe down the area to be patched. What screws do I use for durock?