When it comes to tricky materials that give even the best craftsmen a run for their money—melamine is definitely on top of the list. But what is it that makes this laminated surface so difficult to cut through? Let’s take a look.

What is Melamine?

Melamine is a type of resin laminate that is typically found on many skirtings and furnishing panels. A melamine surface typically consists of a paper or fabric soaked in the resin and bonded onto MDF or any other substrate.

Why Melamine Requires Specialized Saw Blades For Cutting

Since melamine has a complex structure (a hard laminate exterior bonded to a relatively softer core material), it is difficult to work with. When you use any saw on a material like this—both the top layer and core react differently.

That’s where the biggest issue of working with melamine comes in. When you cut through melamine with the wrong type of saw blade—it almost immediately begins to chip or fray. This is a significant issue for people who need clean cuts on melamine for furnishings and other decorative purposes. 

Choosing Saw Blades To Cut Melamine With

Now that we know melamine is prone to chipping, the real task is finding a blade that cuts through it fast enough without ruining the cut. Here’s what a melamine-cutting blade typically looks like:

Carbide Tipped

Carbide-tipped saw blades are hard and can cut through a variety of hard surfaces—including melamine. Its reinforced resin layer is durable and harder than most substances' all-purpose blades handle. That’s why a carbide-tipped blade is the right one for the job. Plus, these blades won’t get dull as fast as other blades do.

Fine High Tooth Count

A fine or high tooth count (around 80-100) is essential for cutting through materials like melamine. A lower tooth count makes chipping and fraying worse, whereas a higher one can significantly improve the cut's cleanliness. 

Note: It's important to know what type of saw to pair this blade with. If you have a blade with a smaller diameter and high tooth count, it could potentially lead to excessive pressure, so pair your saws and saw blades well.

ATB or HATB

Some people also prefer to cut through melamine with ATB (alternate top bevel) and HATB (high alternate top bevel) blade designs. It helps them achieve a better cut, especially when joining two melamine panels for a project.

Get Melamine Saw Blades Online

Do you have melamine boards to cut for your next project? The Sharpening House has a collection of saw blades and tools for all your cutting needs. Our Melamine Cutting Saw Blades are perfect for getting that clean cut on all sorts of melamine surfaces.

And, if you’ve already got blades you like but need them to be sharper–then we’ve got you covered. Call us at (705)325-8665 or Contact us to learn more!