FRP is a common abbreviation that stands for the fiberglass-reinforced polymer. It is a strong, durable, and relatively lightweight material suitable for various wall paneling purposes.
Before you install this type of panel, it must be cut to fit your walls’ size. Learn the steps on how to cut FRP panels in the following.
How to Cut FRP Panels in Four Steps
To cut the FRP panel, there are a few things to consider: how much you need to trim away and the inevitable material contraction and expansion size.
For the thicker panel, it’s more convenient to use a mechanical saw or drill with carbide coats. The tool must be sharp and clean as the glass fiber is severely abrasive.
After you’ve gathered all your supplies, tools, and safety equipment, it is time to execute the process of actually cutting. Here is the guide of what you have to do:
1. Put on the safety equipment as your protection
The safety tools you need are including safety glasses and leather gloves. If necessary, use a respirator to prevent dust from the paneling pieces that fly around the air.
2. Measure the size
The next step on how to cut FRP panels is to use a tape measure and apply it to the glass fiber sheet. Mark the edge of your cutting panel by using a carpenter pencil. To create a symmetrical line across the board, mark the edge points of your panel repeatedly. You might want to complete this step by putting the FRP sheet over the table to provide a sturdy and solid surface.
3. Utilize a circular saw to cut your panel
Create a line between two marks by pencil and chalk line that sets the carbide blade from a circular saw. The circular saw must be placed on the right of the line to make it noticeable from the table’s edge. Ensure the sheet is facing down, but if you’re cutting FRP with a table saw, make sure it is facing up.
After setting the marking line, align the circular saw’s carbide blade with the guiding chalk line. Then press the tool’s trigger and move it slowly against the fiberglass sheet. The carbide blade of the circular saw must be kept aligned throughout the cutting process.
4. Complete the process of cutting the panel
Trying to learn how to cut FRP panels with a utility knife might be hard, but the knife can be used as part of the finishing process. Place the sharp side of your knife against the FRP sheet.
Tilt the sharp side at a 15° angle, then drug it on the panel edge to get rid of the burr edge. Remember not to push the blade as it will damage your sheets overly.
Some have wondered about you can screw FRP panels during installation, and the answer is yes. It also needs adhesive as well. After you cut the sheet using how to cut FRP panels guide above, the products must be sealed to prevent corrosion’s glass fiber. To avoid corrosion, some manufacturers use comparable resin.
