How to cut holes in wall panels?

[timln]

Ahoy!

Loving the amount of content here!

We want to put DYI panelling up on this wall in the photo, maybe easycraft but seeking advice about the best tool to use to cut out relevant sized holes for the power plug sockets, light switches etc.  I have an ozito jigsaw but don't think it is precise enough to smaller jobs, plus cutting out holes within a panel. Need the holes to be precise, neat and clean.

Any suggestions, thoughts or tips would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks

Tim

PS - also, any tips or tricks to consider re panelling this wall, or any wall?

[JacobZ]

Hi @timln,

Thank you for your question about cutting holes in wall panelling.

The best option for this kind of thing is to have an electrician disconnect the switches, then reinstall them over the new panelling. This would not be D.I.Y., but it is worth considering as it will give you the cleanest look possible.

A jigsaw would be the best tool for cutting holes so the panelling would fit over the sockets. The best way to do it cleanly is to carefully mark the location of the switches, then drill holes in each corner of the marked area. You can then use your jigsaw to connect the holes. If you are running a jigsaw in a straight line, they are not that hard to control, and you could even create a guide using a spirit level and some clamps.

If you weren't confident using your jigsaw, you could use a hand saw like this Trojan 170mm Compass Saw and take it nice and slow.

My biggest tip for installing panelling over a wall like this, is to read and understand the installation instructions. If you are using Easycraft panels, make sure you read through the Installation Guides, particularly the General Products & Installations Guide.

They provide guidance on the requirements for expansion gaps and methods of finishing your panels against things like architraves and cornices. 

Allow me to tag @Sugar, who has recently carried out a similar project, to see if he has any advice he can offer.

Also, allow me to tag our experienced members @Nailbag and @Dave-1 to see if they have any tips.

Let me know if you have any further questions.

Jacob

[Nailbag]

Hi @timln 

Other than the excellent advice from @JacobZ I think the Jigsaw you have is ideal just use a new blade and if you can make the cuts from the backside of the panelling, it will leave a smoother edge on the front. If they can't be clamped, then tacking/screwing small bits of straight timber can be used as a straight edge to rest the jigsaw's foot to run along. Any small holes through the front from the fastening can easily be filled.

Nailbag

[Dave-1]

Good Evening @timln 

Yeah @JacobZ instructions are to the point, Jigsaw is my vote as well but measure several times and be prepared for getting it slightly wrong So far I have tried cutting squares out of the back of bookcases (or "panels") and still have measured somehow off kilter a little. I do like the idea of removing the light switches and powerpoints to make a nicer looking job. To be done by an electricaian tho.

Dave

[Sugar]

Excellent advice from all here. 

@JacobZ @Dave-1 and @Nailbag  were to the point. I just finished same project last week. Here is my whole story about it (not in any particular order)

https://www.workshop.bunnings.com.au/t5/Living-and-Bedroom/Easycraft-VJPanelling-installing-on-Bedro...

1. measure the points from cornices. I found it easier. This is because, if bigger gaps at the bottom, skirting is there to hide at the bottom. 

2. Find a central point of the switch (etc.), ie. vertical and horizontal distance from cornice and nearest corner and the cut will be around that point

3. Prepare a template ( a small rectangular pieace of paper), smaller than actual switch and draw the outlines. But always cut smaller than needed.

4. I used Spade bits to make holes on the panel so that Jigsaw's blade will get into those holes to make the cut. Like @Nailbag said, cutting from the back of the panel gives smooth edges at the front. Please let me know if you have any questions.  

[EricL]

Hello @Sugar 

Let me tag @timln to make them aware of your detailed advice.

Eric