How to cut a timber panel?

Question

Hi,

I’ve installed a wall hung tv unit and want to add my own customisations to it. One of the edits I want to make is the top. I had to get 3 units to do the size I need but it looks disjointed on the top. I was hoping to cover it with a nice wooden topper but I don’t have the skills or tools to cut a straight line 1.8m long. If I buy an 1800x405x19 panel can Bunnings cut this down to 1800x214x19 for me? I wasn’t sure if bunnings could do the really long cuts, I’ve had the short cuts done before and it was really easy.

Thanks

EricL · Answer

Hello @schnoopii

Welcome to the Bunnings Workshop community. It's sensational to have you join us, and thanks for sharing your question about cutting a timber panel in half.

I'm sorry, but the panels you've categorized are either glue laminated, or FJ-finger jointed which can't be cut on the shop saw.

However, this presents a great opportunity for you to upscale your D.I.Y. skills by doing it yourself. If you are by chance slowly gathering tools for your D.I.Y. toolbox, I suggest looking at either a standard hand saw or a circular saw. When doing a long cut, practice is essential so that you become familiar with your chosen tool.

Drawing guides and placing the panel on a stable surface is crucial. A steady cut is guaranteed if the panel is clamped to the surface of the table. Remember, if you have a spare off cut timber lying around the house, it's best to practice on that piece first before you commit yourself to the real one.

Here is a handy guide that will help: How to choose the right power saw for the job by @Adam_W.

Please remember to wear personal protection such as gloves, goggles and a mask when working on your project.

If you have any other questions we can help with, please let us know.

Eric