How to Prevent Tearout and Splintering When Cutting Plywood, Once and For All

Tearout and splintering are common problems when cutting plywood, but they don’t have to be. By following a few simple techniques, you can prevent tearout and splintering when cutting plywood, once and for all.

The first step in preventing tearout and splintering is to use a sharp blade. A dull blade will cause the plywood to tear out and splinter much more than a sharp blade. Make sure to keep your blades sharpened and ready for use.

The second step is to use a zero clearance insert. This will help to prevent tearout and splintering by providing a smoother cutting surface. It also helps to reduce the amount of dust that is created when cutting plywood.

Third, use a sacrificial fence when cutting plywood. This will help to prevent splintering on the back side of the cut. Simply attach a piece of scrap wood to the fence, and then cut the plywood against the sacrificial fence.

Fourth, use a backer board when cutting plywood. This will help to prevent tearout on the bottom side of the cut. Place a piece of scrap wood underneath the plywood, and then cut the plywood against the backer board.

Finally, use clamps to hold the plywood in place when cutting. This will help to prevent the plywood from moving and causing tearout or splintering.

By following these simple steps, you can prevent tearout and splintering when cutting plywood, once and for all. With a sharp blade, zero clearance insert, sacrificial fence, backer board, and clamps, you can make sure that your cuts are clean and without tearout or splintering.

How to Prevent Tearout and Splintering When Cutting Plywood, Once and For All