For your landscaping projects, Metal landscape edging is a very important task. There are many different types of metal edging available, so it’s important to choose the right one for your project. Before installing metal edging, you need to cut it to the correct length.
There are many different ways to cut metal edging, and you have to choose the best method that works for you. In this article we will discuss on how to cut metal edging.
Metal Edging
Metal edging is a type of material used to create a border around landscapes, gardens, and other areas. It is made of metal and is typically very sturdy, making it a good choice for these applications. The metal edging for landscaping can have a variety of shapes and sizes; you have to choose the perfect option for your needs. Its easy installation process makes it a popular choice among homeowners and landscapers.
Tools Needed for Metal Edging
- Chisel
- Hammer
- Level
- Square
- Shovel
- Wheelbarrow
- Rotary cutter
- Hack Saw
- Bolt Cutter
- Grinder
- Torch
- Shear
How to Cut Metal Edging
Whether you’re looking to install a new metal edging around your garden or want to create a new shape for an existing bed, knowing how to cut metal edging is essential. There are multiple ways to cut metal edging. Here we will discuss the seven best ways to cut metal edging.
Wear Proper Working gears
Before starting, wear your working gear. You need to wear proper working gear like safety glasses and ear protection for a professional result. Safety glasses will protect your eyes from flying metal, and ear protection will prevent your ears from being damaged due to noise.
Mark the Cut Line
Mark the cut line on the metal border edging using a tape measure. Afterward, apply a ruler to measure the length of the cut that you need.
Ways to Cut Metal Edging
Rotary cutter
A rotary cutter is a device used for cutting metal edging. It can cut metal like steel, copper, and aluminum.
Use the Rotary Cutter to Cut Metal Edging.
- A rotary cutter is a great way to cut metal edging.
- It is easy to use and makes a clean cut.
- You need to hold the metal edging against the cutter and rotate it around the blade.
- Make sure to wear safety goggles when using a rotary cutter.
- It is good to practice on some scrap metal before cutting your project pieces.
Hacksaw
Metal edging is a great way to add extra pizzazz to your landscaping. It can be used to create curves, borders, and even stairs. But when it comes to cutting it, what do you need to do? You could use a hacksaw. A hacksaw is a saw with a blade attached to an arbor, just like a regular saw.
Use the Hacksaw to Cut Metal Edging.
1. Set the blade to an angle equal to 45 degrees.
2. Push the metal edging into the blade slightly and move it in a back and forth motion.
3. It should be easy to cut through the metal edging, which is just below where you mark on the tape measure.
4. Make sure to wear safety goggles when using a hacksaw.
5. Practice some scrap metal before cutting your project pieces.
Bolt Cutters
Normally bolt cutters are used to cut bolts. It can also be used to cut other things, like wire. They may be made of metal with two blades.
Use the Bolt Cutter to Cut Metal Edging.
1. Select the correct size bolt cutter for the job you need to do.
2. Place the Metal on the bottom of a vise
3. Place the bolt cutter blade on the metal and secure it with a vise.
4. Turn on the power to your cutter and make sure that the blades are spinning.
5. Adjust the blade speed to match the material you are cutting. 6. Cut the metal to your desired length.
7. Turn off the power and remove the bolt cutter blade.
8. Clean up any shavings that may be left in your project piece using a wire brush or an old toothbrush.
Torch
An oxy-acetylene torch can be used to cut metal. However, many hobbyists have reported that cutting with a torch is not safe.
If you are concerned about safety, purchase a shielded oxygen-acetylene cutting system instead.
Use the Torch to Cut Metal Edging.
1. Attach the cutting tip to your torch.
2. Turn on the power and allow the flames to burn off as you desire.
3. Heat up the metal with the torch, making sure that it does not get too hot for you to handle.
4. Hold the torch against your workpiece, making sure that you do not hold it too close to the cutting tip.
5. Cut the metal with a sawing motion, keeping your hand far away from the flame at all times.
6. Once you have cut through the metal, remove your hand and allow the torch to cool off before handling it.
Chisel
Metal edging is a great way to finish your landscaping project and give it a clean, polished look. There are a few different ways to cut metal edging, but the chisel method is the easiest and most efficient.
Use the Chisel to Cut Metal Edging.
It would be best if you had a chisel and a hammer to start your task. Place the chisel on the edge of the metal and hit it with the hammer to make a clean cut. You should repeat the edging process numerous times to complete your project.
Shear
Shears are a type of scissors that are used to cut metal edging. They can be used to cut straight lines or curves. There are a few different types of shears, each with its own set of benefits and drawbacks. When choosing a shear, it is important to consider the size and thickness of the metal being cut, as well as the user’s experience and expertise.
Use the Shear to Cut Metal Edging.
1. Load the tool with the metal edging you wish to cut.
2. Secure the blade in the tool and secure the lock into place on the handle.
3. Lock the handle into position.
4. Hold the tool in your dominant hand and place it against the edge of the metal edging to be cut with your other hand, which should be held along the length of the tool.
5. Push down on the tool with your dominant hand, causing it to fall against the edge of the metal edging.
Grinder
Grinders are one of the best tools in a hardware store. They can be used for a variety of tasks, from grinding welds to shaping metal. Here we’ll show you how to use a grinder to cut metal edging.
Use the Grinder to Cut Metal Edging.
1. Make sure that the grinder’s switch is on, and you will hear the motor running.
2. Place the metal edging against the cutting wheel of your grinder and hold it firmly in place with one hand while turning the grinder with your other hand.
3. Make sure that the grinder is cutting straight, not at an angle.
4. Move the metal edging along with the grinder until you have reached your desired length.
Tips and Tricks
Cutting metal is a skilled task requiring considerable practice and attention to detail. Some useful tips and tricks are discussed below on how to cut metal edging.
- The thicker the metal, the more force is needed to cut it.
- When the tool is pushed down on the metal edging, lean back a little bit so that the weight of the tool is distributed evenly across your body and against the edge of the metal.
- Make sure that you have a good hold on the tool. Your hand should be at least shoulder-width apart so that you can maintain control of the tool.
- When cutting metal, you must maintain a steady hand and eye.
- The metal should be cut with the grain of the workpiece so that it is smooth and flat; otherwise, it will peel back on itself.
Precautions
Metal is a very strong material, so you will need to take care of your safety during the process. The first consideration with regard to the edges of the metal is to consider their edges. Metal is not as sharp as it looks, be careful not to cut yourself when using metal cutting tools as it can result in cuts or scratches. The second thing to take into consideration is the temperature of the metal. Metal has high heat, and you should use protection while working with it. Also, make sure that you are working with the right tools for your task.
Conclusion
In conclusion, by following the simple steps listed in this article, you can easily cut metal edging to fit your needs. Whether you are a DIY enthusiast or a professional contractor, these tips will help you get the job done quickly and efficiently. So what are you waiting for? Get started today!