How to cut galvanized tin siding?

Question

I know about tin snips but could I use a jigsaw with a blade for metal? I only have about 5 sheets to cut and around a window for an outbuilding.

Answer 1

Yes, a jigsaw will work fine, but you need the proper blade. Ask your hardware store guy for a very fine tooth metal cutting blade. Backup the siding with a piece of 1/4" scrap plywood while cutting it.

Answer 2

I did a quick search on the web and came across these directions for cutting VINYL siding. I don't know if the same instruction would be applicable for tin:
Large-bladed tin snips can be used to cut the pieces of siding to length. Smaller aviation snips are best for cutting trim pieces to precise lengths and shapes.

That's not to say that there aren't power tools for the job, too. A standard circular saw fitted with a fine-toothed plywood cutting blade will cut vinyl cleanly and quickly. (It works best to put the blade in the saw backwards.) Professional siding contractors usually have a power miter saw on a large stand to make cutting go faster. Amateurs can build something similar on top of a sheet of plywood or OSB with some scrap 1-by and 2-by (as seen in the image on the right).

Long, horizontal cuts in vinyl are made by scoring the cut with a utility knife and bending the piece back and forth until it breaks along the score mark.

Answer 3

A jigsaw will work, use a fine toothed metal jigsaw blade.