How to shave rigid foam insulation?

Question

What is the eaisiest way to shave rigid foam insulation. I intend to install it over a concrete floor and slope it towards a floor drain for a later application of parging.

Answer 1

a sharp knife would probably work or you could try using a hand plane.

Answer 2

well that depends on the foam. the white kind that is NOT true Styrofoam just get one of the shapers, something like a cheese grater that guys that do surfboards do. body shop supply houses carry them for working bondo. the blue real brand name Styrofoam is different. it has a thin layer of plastic over it, by some means you must take this plastic off, then shape it the same way.

for this to work best, be sure to put down a plastic water barrier between the foam and the floor, or else it will wick up water and eventually ruin the job.

Answer 3

A review of the various hair removal methods is available at http://tinyurl.com/ob6tt

Answer 4

I believe an electric carving knife will work well. It's worth a try.

Answer 5

the quickest way that i found is to use an electric chain saw or if you have a gass chain saw use it but dont put any bar and chain lube in it,it will gum it up.

Answer 6

That's a danged good question, Wonder if a belt sander would work?

Answer 7

Any old knife will work - I have seen people use electric knifes too.

Answer 8

Electric knife works well

Answer 9

VERY LONG KITCHEN KNIFE - THATS WHAT THE PRO'S ON NORM ABRAM'S SHOW USED ( THIS OLD HOUSE - PUBLIC TV )