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Main => Main Forum => Topic started by: shmokes on August 10, 2008, 09:49:28 pm

Title: Which tool would you use to trim metal t-molding?
Post by: shmokes on August 10, 2008, 09:49:28 pm: You know the stem part of the t-molding -- the part that actually inserts into the slot in the wood? That bit has to be trimmed off in order to bend the t-molding around corners and such, right? Well, my t-molding is made of aluminum. I won't exactly be using scissors or a utility knife for the job. I had planned to use my Dremel tool with a diamond cutting wheel, but somehow my Dremel tool disappeared between Utah and Florida when I was moving last year. I have searched high and low (and even gone through another move) and am absolutely sure I don't have a Dremel tool anymore. :banghead:

So . . . I need to get some kind of tool to trim my t-molding, but my decision before was based largely on the fact that I already had a Dremel tool. Now I'm wondering if I wouldn't be better off using something else, like an angle grinder. Either an angle grinder or a generic rotary tool can be had from Harbor Freight for about $20-$25, so either one will do about the same as much damage to my wallet.

Which of those (or what other tool) would you use and why?
Title: Re: Which tool would you use to trim metal t-molding?
Post by: Paladin on August 10, 2008, 10:02:27 pm: I'd still stick with a Dremel, as it has many uses outside of your current need. Since either tool will do the job, get whichever one you'll end up getting your moneys worth.
Title: Re: Which tool would you use to trim metal t-molding?
Post by: EwJ on August 11, 2008, 03:35:01 am: Tin snips or aviation snips ?
Title: Re: Which tool would you use to trim metal t-molding?
Post by: fjl on August 11, 2008, 06:21:17 am: Since it's aluminum it shouldn't be too hard to cut off or grind off. I would use sheet metal scissors or even wire cutting dykes. Once you cut the sides (straight line) you should be able to bend it until it breaks off. If any scraps are left behind you can perhaps sand them off or just scrape it off. Aluminum is easy to work with.
Title: Re: Which tool would you use to trim metal t-molding?
Post by: shmokes on August 11, 2008, 09:43:19 am: Quote from: efjayel on August 11, 2008, 06:21:17 am
Since it's aluminum it shouldn't be too hard to cut off or grind off. I would use sheet metal scissors or even wire cutting dykes. Once you cut the sides (straight line) you should be able to bend it until it breaks off. If any scraps are left behind you can perhaps sand them off or just scrape it off. Aluminum is easy to work with.

I'll have to give that a shot. I was kind of thinking that tin snips and the like wouldn't be able to get close enough. That they'd leave a little stump that would be too difficult to remove.
Title: Re: Which tool would you use to trim metal t-molding?
Post by: Malenko on August 11, 2008, 09:51:33 am: just got buy, borrow, or rent a dremel?
Title: Re: Which tool would you use to trim metal t-molding?
Post by: Turnarcades on August 11, 2008, 09:56:38 am: Definitely small tin snips for a clean cut.
Title: Re: Which tool would you use to trim metal t-molding?
Post by: Franco B on August 11, 2008, 10:14:43 am: I would be tempted to use tin snips and cut \/ 's rather than \_/'s, that way you shouldnt have a stump.