If you’re looking to make some adjustments to your drywall, whether it’s a small job or you’re replacing it outright, you’ll need to learn how to cut it.
One good tool for the job is a keyhole saw, or even just a simple utility knife.
But doing the job by hand can take a long time, and a LOT of hard work.
Especially if you’ve a big job on your hands.
To get precise cuts in the quickest time possible, an oscillating tool is definitely the way to go.
If you do have a keyhole saw and a utility knife then they may still come in handy for some of cuts, but when it comes to an all-around tool that can cut long straight chunks of drywall as well as precise smaller cuts, an oscillating tool can’t be beat.
Jumping into the unknown with any DIY project can be a scary prospect, but it doesn’t have to be!
To help get you on the right track with your project, we’ve put together this handy step-by-step guide to cutting drywall with an oscillating tool, along with some additional tips along the way.
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How to Cut Drywall
Before we get started, always remember to wear safety gear.
Gloves and eye protection are a must on any project like this, and it can’t hurt to wear ear protection either.
With that out of the way, it’s time to get started!
1. First, measure your cuts with a ruler and mark them off with a pencil, and then do it again.
Remember the age-old saying: measure twice, cut once!
2. Equip your oscillating tool with a drywall blade.
Finding the right blade for the job can often seem like a minefield for the uninitiated.
If in doubt, ask around your local hardware store. Personally, I’d recommend a semicircle HSS blade.
3. Work supports are available to help provide a stable surface when cutting drywall.
If you’re cutting larger sheets down to size, a work support would definitely be worth the investment.
4. Turn on your oscillating tool and get cutting!
Make sure you take your time and go steady. There’s no rush!
5. Cutting your drywall with a pendulum motion is the best way to go.
Not only will it help to preserve your blade over time (thanks to the magic of work distribution), but it’ll also help to keep the cut clean of any debris and dust.
6. If there is a lot of dust and debris and you’re finding it hard to see your pencil marks, then stop the tool and wipe it away.
Again, there’s no hurry.
You want to take your time and make sure your cuts are as clean and as straight as possible.
If this means stopping and starting every now and then to clean away the dust, so be it!
Using An Oscillating Tool To Cut Drywall
At the end of the day, tools like these are here to save us all from the time and hard work of doing the job by hand.
Oscillating tools are one of the most useful tools for any DIYer to have in his or her arsenal, and with all kinds of accessories and attachments available, there’s almost no job they can’t do!