How To Cut Pipe And Tubing

Use a tape to measure and a pencil to mark the length where you need to cut. If using a saw, try marking around the pipe's entire circumference.

Place the pipe in a vise, clamp, or miter box. This will keep it steady and help you make a straight cut.

Before cutting, check your area’s plumbing code to ensure you’re using the correct type of pipe or tubing for the job.

If using a plastic pipe saw, ensure it’s aligned with the cut mark. With a hacksaw, slowly move the blade back and forth. Keep the cut straight, although it may be harder with a hacksaw.

Secure the pipe under the saw blade on a workbench. Align the blade with the cut mark, turn the saw on and let it reach full speed. Slowly lower the blade until the pipe is cut, then wait for the blade to stop before removing the pipe.

Slip the wire saw behind the pipe in tight areas, align it with the mark and use a back-and-forth motion to cut through the pipe.

If working on drains, use a drill attachment to cut from the inside of the pipe.

Slowly turn the cutter's knob to tighten the blade against the pipe. This scoring will help you to cut it into a smooth and even way.

After tightening, start rotating the cutter around the pipe. As you make a few rotations, gradually tighten the knob further. This technique allows the blade to dig deeper with each turn without crushing or deforming the pipe. Continue this until the blade cuts completely through.

Once the pipe is fully cut, loosen the cutter’s knob to release it from the pipe. Removing the tool without force ensures the tubing remains intact and undamaged.

After cutting, use a reamer to clean the inside of the pipe to prevent leakage while connecting pipes.

Align the blade of a scissor-type PEX cutter to your mark. Squeeze the handles and rotate the cutter until the tubing is cut clean.

You can also use a ratcheting-style cutter. Simply align the blade with the mark and squeeze the handles until the cut is complete.