Picking the best method for cost-effectiveness and efficiency
When it comes to PIR insulation boards, builders and contractors often debate whether it’s better to cut boards on site or use a professional in-house cutting service. Which approach delivers the best results for time, cost, accuracy and waste reduction? Both have pros and cons — here’s how they compare.
What is PIR board, and why does cutting it matter?
PIR (polyisocyanurate) insulation boards are popular for their strong thermal performance. Accurate cutting is critical because it affects thermal continuity, project timelines and budget. Poorly cut boards can create gaps, increase rework and generate avoidable waste.
Common problems with cutting on site
- Dust & safety: Cutting produces dust; you’ll need good ventilation and protective equipment.
- Inaccurate cuts: Hand cutting can lead to sizing errors and gaps that reduce thermal efficiency and increase rework.
- Excess waste: Irregular cuts often leave more off-cuts to dispose of, increasing costs and environmental impact.
Benefits of professional cutting done in-house
- Precision & accuracy: CNC or guided machinery delivers consistent dimensions for better performance.
- Less waste: Optimised cutting patterns reduce off-cuts and disposal costs.
- Health & safety: Extraction systems and a controlled environment minimise dust exposure.
- Time-saving: Pre-cut boards arrive ready to fit, speeding up installation.
Cost and time comparison
| Aspect | Cutting on site | Custom cutting in-house |
|---|---|---|
| Labour | More hours required; accuracy varies; rework likely | Significantly fewer hours on site; consistent accuracy |
| Waste management | Higher off-cuts and disposal costs | Reduced waste; lower disposal costs |
| Project duration | Longer; potential delays due to re-measuring and re-cuts | Faster; boards fit immediately on arrival |
| Precision | Dependent on tools and operatives on the day | Machine-guided, repeatable tolerances |
Real-world outcomes reported by clients
- Better installation efficiency: On-site fitting times shortened — in some cases by several days.
- Less waste: Professional cutting commonly reduces off-cuts by ~20–30%.
- Improved accuracy: Factory-cut boards reduce gaps and on-site errors.
Customer feedback highlight
“Switching to Buy Insulation’s cutting service changed everything. Less waste, less hassle, and a faster build.”
— James L., Construction Manager
Need custom-cut PIR?
Buy Insulation offers a professional PIR custom-cutting service for both large commercial projects and home renovations. Get high-quality, precisely cut boards delivered to site — ready to install.
