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How to Select a Router Bit to Cut Formica

Michael Straessle

Formica is one of the best products on the market today. It has evolved over the years to include more than just countertop covering. However, cutting the product has not changed. To get the best possible cut requires clamps, straightedges and sharp router bits.

This one has it all.

The type of bit to be used depends on the reason for the cut.

Tip

Always wear safety glasses. If you have to use a bit with frozen bearings, apply a good amount of paraffin wax to the edge before trimming. Always grip the router firmly.

Warning

Do not leave power tools unattended. Do not handle freshly cut edges of Formica without gloves to avoid cuts. Do not move too quickly when routing Formica to avoid breakage of the Formica.

    So many!
  1. Research router bits on the Internet. If you don't have access to the Internet, a trip to the local hardware store is advised. Many different router bits can be used to cut Formica, so investigating is the best place to start.

  2. Splicing Formica.
  3. Weigh the pros and cons of each bit available for cutting Formica. For example, a bit that has no ball bearing guide can penetrate the Formica at the sink, but it would not produce the required finish because it would burn into the wood. However, when cutting precise splices using a straightedge, this bit is ideal.

  4. Good for close routing.
  5. Comparing the router bit from Step 2 with a flush trim bit with ball bearing guides will reveal the solution for the project at hand. A hole will have to be drilled through the Formica at the sink hole. Then the bit with the ball bearing guide can follow the contour of the cutout for the sink.

  6. Front edge cutting.
  7. Cut the Formica overhanging the edge with the same type of bit used for the sink cutout. The ball bearing guides will prevent burning the Formica on the front edge of the countertop. Check the bearings before cutting the overhang because they can get contact adhesive buildup from previous cuts, which can cause the bearings to freeze up and burn the front edge of the countertop. Keep plenty of paraffin wax on hand to coat the front edge. This will help reduce the chances of burning the Formica edge.

  8. Bevel to cut the edge.
  9. Creating a beveled edge when the front edge of the countertop is hardwood requires a bevel bit made for this specific purpose. This bit also has the ball bearing guide and will bevel the wood and the edge of the Formica at the same time.

  10. The best cleaning solution.
  11. Cleaning the bearings in this bit is just as important as any bit with bearings. Lacquer thinner is the best for cleaning quickly, but Naphtha will do a better cleaning job. It takes a little longer, but it is a petroleum product and helps lubricate the bearings.

The Drip Cap

  • Formica is one of the best products on the market today.
  • Weigh the pros and cons of each bit available for cutting Formica.
  • Comparing the router bit from Step 2 with a flush trim bit with ball bearing guides will reveal the solution for the project at hand.
  • Check the bearings before cutting the overhang because they can get contact adhesive buildup from previous cuts, which can cause the bearings to freeze up and burn the front edge of the countertop.