Flush Cutting Siding

[Jeffrey Schronce]

Please see attached photo. I am seeking to cut this vinyl siding flush or close to flush with the wall. I tried using circular saw but was only able to get to about 1 1/2" to the wall and I need to get to at least 1/4". What type of device is recommended here? My guess is a grinder with some type of wheel or blade attached to it. Can you give me some good ideas, understanding that I will need to purchase the tool specifically for this job. (ie suggesting a siding installers tool that costs $500 wouldn't really be an option since this is a once and off use).
THanks
Jeff

[LarryG]

To do it on the cheap, I'd use either a Dremel or a utility knife.

[Jeffrey Schronce]

I don't think utility knife will cut siding but I'll give it a shot.

[JimD]

A handsaw will cut siding very easily. If it is not too cold, a knife will cut it but slowly and with significant effort. A right angle grinder would work but I would probably just use a handsaw (even though I have a right angle grinder).

Jim

[Jeffrey Schronce]

A handsaw will cut siding very easily. If it is not too cold, a knife will cut it but slowly and with significant effort. A right angle grinder would work but I would probably just use a handsaw (even though I have a right angle grinder).

Jim

Hmmmm. A saw powered by hand. Interesting . . . .

[greencat]

I don't think utility knife will cut siding but I'll give it a shot.

I think you can score and cut with a sharp utility knife.

[Jeffrey Schronce]

Ok.

Got 2 of the things that JimD was talking about, you know the saws powered by human hand.

Got 100 pk of utility knife blades and a couple of handles. Going to take hair dryer and warm this stuff up a bit so it is easier to work with and I am going to try both methods. Hopefully, I will get the job done and with all digits in place.

[Jeffrey Schronce]

Wow, I am very suprised. The utility knife is working like a charm. Thanks guys!

[crokett]

I woulda said a hot knife - I use one to cut kite fabric.

[Woodwerker]

Jeff show us an after pic :-)
Joe

[Jeffrey Schronce]

Jeff show us an after pic :-)
Joe

I have few miles left in this marathon, but I'll get some pics up of the finished project next week.

RE: Hot knife, I did use a hair dryer to get the siding nice and warm which made the job easier (still a pain though).

[scorrpio]

Lokks like you got it already, but I'd use a Dremel with a spiral cutter.