How To Cut PVC Pipe Straight With Sawzall

Published on: May 16, 2022
Written by David Rowan / Fact-checked by David Rowan

Polyvinyl chloride, or PVC, has become a popular alternative to metal pipes. PVC is one of the most extensively used polymers in the world due to its strength, durability, ease of installation, and low cost. They are available in a variety of sizes and forms. You may make a work of art in your plumbing closet or a spectacular PVC project with only PVC pipe. If you start working with it, you might not be able to quit.

All you need is one of the various instruments available to cut PVC pipes. Sawzall can cut up to 8″ PVC pipe if you have a long enough blade and sufficient experience. The majority of individuals can cut PVC pipe with a Sawzall, but cutting it straight is a different matter. To cut the PVC pipe straight, firmly press the blade guard on the pipe. The Sawzall vibrates less as you apply more pressure to the blade guard. 

Can You Cut PVC Pipe With A Sawzall?

Definitely, PVC pipe can be cut with a Sawzall; what is needed to pay attention to is the blade’s size. Because the blade retracts into the shoe, the blade length of a reciprocating saw might be misleading. PVC is a tough, long-lasting material that can be cut with a carbide blade with even more teeth. The thickest metals, such as cast iron and earth pipe, are engraved with this blade.

What Is The Best Sawzall Blade For Cutting PVC Pipe?

Carbon steel blades are perfect for cutting wood or plastic because they are flexible enough to bend without breaking. The finest Sawzall blades for trees are usually carbon steel blades. High-speed steel blades have tough teeth but are prone to breaking and can last up to five times longer than high-carbon steel blades.

Sawzall blades are available in a variety of lengths and tooth counts. When cutting plastic, the blades with the finest teeth designed for cutting metal tend to clog, whereas those with the fewest teeth are more likely to crack and shatter PVC. A wood-cutting blade with 10 teeth per inch is suggested. Use a 10–14 TPI (teeth per inch) blade to cut 1/4″ or thinner acrylic. A blade with a TPI of 6–8 works well with thicker polymers.

How Do You Mark And Cut PVC Pipe Straight?

Hold it stable and clip it to make a straight cut on the PVC pipe. It’s crucial to label the pipe before cutting it. You want the bottom of the cutter to line up with the top, and the easiest way to achieve so is to mark it. A rubber band may be used to help you make an equal impression. A wood and metal blade with a 10/14 TPI design is ideal for cutting PVC pipe with a Sawzall. This will ensure that the task is completed in the most expedient manner possible.

Dos And Don’ts of Cutting PVC Pipe

It’s critical to achieve a square, flat cut when cutting PVC tubing. The bonding area is limited by an uneven cut, which weakens the fitting. Cutting implements may be hazardous. Every technique of cutting PVC pipe requires the use of a cutting blade of some sort. If not used properly, any of these instruments can cause significant injury, which is why it’s critical to follow these safety precautions first.

• Keep an eye on your hands at all times.

Wearing cut-resistant gloves when cutting PVC pipes is a wise precaution. Keep an eye on where your hands are at all times. This will reduce the possibility of bodily damage.

• Keep your eyes safe.

When cutting PVC pipe, use safety glasses, goggles, or other eye protection since pieces can be discharged from the cutting region.

• When cutting PVC pipe in cold weather, avoid using ratchet cutters.

In cold conditions, ratchet cutters are not advised to compress the pipe, increasing the danger of breaking. The best results come from fine-toothed saw blades.

• Use a cutting blade that isn’t dull or damaged.

Final Words

Even if you’re not a maintenance man, you’ll probably need to cut a PVC pipe at some point. If you’ve never done anything like this before, you could find it frustrating. This is why everyone needs to understand how to cut PVC pipes straight and correctly.

Featured image credit: bobvila.com

Relevant Resources:

• How to Make a Carving Knife From a Sawzall Blade
• What Can I Use Instead of a Jigsaw
• Can I Cut Copper Pipe With a Miter Saw?