Doing a PVC pipe project requires cutting the PVC pipe to the right length. Cutting PVC pipe is very simple, much simpler than other building materials. It can be cut in many different ways, depending on the tools one uses. Here are three ways to cut PVC pipe:

Plastic Pipe Cutter

This is a very easy and clean way to cut PVC pipe, however, you must use a plastic pipe cutter. These are very inexpensive tools ($8 to $25 each) and can be purchased at your neighborhood hardware store.

They come in two types:

rotary pipe cutters – best for smaller diameter PVC pipe.

Rotary pipe cutters use a blade that clamps downward on the edge of the pipe and can be rotated to cut deeper into the pipe. The point to be cut is placed on the blade in the jaws of the pipe cutter, then the handle is squeezed together and the cutter is rotated around the pipe.

Ratchet Pipe Cutter

Ideal for large diameter PVC pipe.

The Ratchet Pipe Cutter uses a ratcheting mechanism which repeatedly applies pressure from the blades to the plastic. Simply place the mark to be cut on the cutter’s blade and squeeze until it makes contact with the pipe wall. Release the mechanism and squeeze again until the blade is completely through the pipe.

The only disadvantage of using a plastic pipe cutter to make cuts is that it can be painful to the hands, which will constantly squeeze the handle of the cutter.

Hand Saw

Hand saws are the most common method of cutting PVC pipe, but can be a bit messy. Almost any type of saw can be used, but a hacksaw is best because it offers greater flexibility. To cut pipe with a handsaw, simply secure or clamp the pipe to the edge of a counter or workbench and use the saw on the mark to be cut. Keep moving it back and forth along the pipe.

Using a hacksaw or other handsaw essentially “punctures” the pipe, often leaving “burrs” on the end of the pipe (and elsewhere). These are rough burr heads that need to be knocked off to get the end of the pipe clean. They can be removed by tapping them along the end of the pipe with a razor blade.

Power Miter Saw

When it comes to cutting large quantities of pipe, a power miter saw is the fastest solution for cutting PVC pipe. You need to understand how a miter saw works before operating it so you don’t hurt yourself. Once it is operated skillfully, you can cut large quantities of PVC pipe very quickly and accurately.

To cut PVC with a miter saw, there must be a way to clamp the pipe to the miter saw base. Once clamped, make sure the blade is lined up with the markings on the PVC pipe, then start the saw and slowly place the saw onto the pipe until it is completely cut. Once completely through, release the button and stop the saw blade before raising the saw head.