I am removing and replacing a subfloor in an old bathroom and am seeking advice on the best method to cut the subfloor perpindicular and flush with the existing walls.

AdrianL

 

Drywall getting replaced as well?

 

The best thing is a reciprocating saw. That will get up closed against the wall. If you're replacing the old sub floor with the same thickness of wood, you could use a circular saw which would leave you about 1.5-2" off the wall, (depending on the saw) and fill in with new material up to the old. Thats what Im doing now for a client, then we're adding new 1/2" ply on top, throughout.

 

Yes, I am replacing the drywall.

 

Thank you, jatco. A reciprocating saw is one option I've considered and it should work.

 

With the drywall gone, you should be able to cut flush to the sill plate except immediately below each stud, which could then be done with a hand saw. Not sure it's all that important to get that much out, though.

 

The ideal tool would be an undercut saw, turned up to cut vertically instead of horizontally like it's normally used. Designed specifically for cutting right close to a surface.

http://www.tiletool.net/555.jpg

 

..true. If you wish to do it manually.

 

No no - check the link - electric undercut saw (also called a jamb saw 'cause they're often used to undercut door jambs for inserting new flooring) - handy tool.

 

Oh.. Ive heard of the electric undercut saw, but thought it only cut horizontially (under the jamb) - but does it/can it cut vertically? - and have the Umph to cut thru subflooring?.
Havent seen or used one!

 

The ones I have seen used for this purpose look more like a circular saw than a grinder. Similar to this one.

An offset blade adapter for a reciprocating saw is also pretty handy for cutting flush with walls.



Image credit: Grainger

 

funny...notice how both the links have the same brand of tool, do the same job, yet completely different styles. I'd bet the grinder style is a bit cheaper, the upright one looks purpose built.

And then of course theres this...hmmm what do you know...a flush cut saw specifically for what the OP asked....tho I think I'd have to be in business to spend that much.

http://www.tiletool.net/785.jpg
http://www.tiletool.net/Undercut_Saws.asp

 

The 'this one' is the one Im familiar with.. but I do like that adapter for the recipro saw...
Very smart!

 

xsleeper...oh cool...new toy for my wish list...can't be very much either. Wonder why that didn't show up when i first looked at yer post.

 

It was an afterthought... And actually it's a little pricy for something so simplistic. $42 I think. A friend of mine has one. I'd be scared that the "tang" would break off like it sometimes does on the blades when they get stressed (bent) too much.

 

Crain makes several models of "jamb saws". But in reality they are flush cutting saws and can be used vertically or horizontally. Pretty common rental center item.

 

A little late to the party here, but I've recently used the Bosch saw at the link below for this exact same issue. One of the handiest saws I've used.
http://www.amazon.com/Bosch-1640VS-F..._bxgy_hi_img_b
Best price on the saw found here at Amazon, but replacement blades from Boshc/CPO. This saw is also sold with a mitre box feature.