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Free Timber Cutting Service with Timber Purchased (in-Store Only) @ Bunnings

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Free Timber Cutting Service with Timber Purchased (in-Store Only) @ Bunnings
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Mr BoMBAStiG on 03/07/2024 - 11:33 workshop.bunnings.com.au (914 clicks)
Last edited 03/07/2024 - 13:40 by 1 other user

Just in case people didn't know about this. If you buy large timber at a Bunnings, you can have it cut at least once for free. As much as I would love to own a track saw, this service has meant I cannot justify another tool to own and store!

I have never been charged for extra cuts but I always go when it is super quiet (7am or close to when they close, keeping in mind the timber section gets fairly understaffed close to closing time). As long as you are friendly and have the measurements and pieces ready to go, usually they don't mind doing multiple rips and getting paid with a thanks mate.

"Does this service have a cost?
Bunnings stores may charge a small fee for timber cutting. The price is:
Timber docking - First two cuts are free, and 50 cents per additional cut
Panels and sheeting - First cut is free and $1 per additional cut."

There is also usually a large bin near the timber saws that have off cuts you can take for free.

Should I also mention that there is very convenient parking in the timber yard that is especially useful when it is raining ;)

Home & Garden Timber

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Comments

    • Mr BoMBAStiG on 03/07/2024 - 11:47
      +16

      Did you click on the link, their policy is literally first cut is free.

        • Mr BoMBAStiG on 03/07/2024 - 11:53
          +14

          Who hurt you?

        • GuestShopper on 03/07/2024 - 14:11
          +5

          Sometimes you can't find anyone, my friend ended up buying a saw

          • jv on 03/07/2024 - 14:12
            -5

            @GuestShopper:

            Sometimes you can't find anyone

            Or, their saw 'is out of order' today…. When they can't be bothered…

          • The General on 03/07/2024 - 16:30
            +2

            @GuestShopper: Should have just used the saw in store and then put it back on the shelf.

            • GuestShopper on 03/07/2024 - 17:46

              @The General: That is clever. I have never been that person in my life and I envy those who can.

      • foreverphoenix on 03/07/2024 - 12:15
        +10

        Not many people know about the policy and my local Bunnings charges for the cuts. And during the times they don’t, they make it look like they’re doing you a favour…
        So my local Bunnings literally does whatever they feel like depending on their mood

        • ThePasserby on 03/07/2024 - 12:19
          +3

          I think policies has a better standing over mood swings.

          • foreverphoenix on 03/07/2024 - 12:45
            +3

            @ThePasserby: Absolutely. Which is why I’ll remind them of their policy. But they’ve been doing that just cuz they can and out of mine and other people’s ignorance about the policy.

          • davebern on 04/07/2024 - 08:50
            +1

            @ThePasserby: 100% agree.
            Just like the Scanning Code of Practice for supermarkets. The staff think it's their money and they rarely give me a full refund (only the difference) but when I take it up with a senior manager or head office, I've always got the full refund.

      • helldoodle on 03/07/2024 - 18:56

        can you explain where this policy is, as i have never seen it after working at bunnings for 5 years, as the old

        "Does this service have a cost?
        Bunnings stores may charge a small fee for timber cutting. The price is:
        Timber docking - First two cuts are free, and 50 cents per additional cut
        Panels and sheeting - First cut is free and $1 per additional cut."

        went out 3 years ago when we were told to remove the signs

        • Mr BoMBAStiG on 03/07/2024 - 19:26

          The link is to the Bunnings forum that has 35 pages in the thread and is still being actively responded to by an employee. Maybe your store doesn't have qualified saw operators.

          • helldoodle on 04/07/2024 - 18:06

            @Mr BoMBAStiG: oh to the forum!! my bad, i thought you said policy, there i was thinking you didn't know what you were talking about but you are quoting a forum not a policy, i thought you said it was bunnings policy, my bad, man do i look like an idiot

    • The General on 03/07/2024 - 16:31
      +1

      The staff member probably got tired of you asking "How much is it usually", so started charging you for it.

    • miicah on 03/07/2024 - 19:28

      Do you ever not act like a (profanity)?

      • Nomad2233 on 04/07/2024 - 11:06
        +2

        How the (profanity) does he have 110,000 comments on a bargain site

      • ExtraSalt on 05/07/2024 - 13:53

        how was JV's comment in any way offensive or aggressive? simply stating an experience.

  • Jimothy Wongingtons on 03/07/2024 - 11:42
    +3

    The guy in front of me last time had the dude cut 6x 2m lengths into a whole bunch of 30cm… took like 15 min no payment lol

    So yeah… ymmv

    • Wiadro on 03/07/2024 - 11:46

      My local has a sign. no lengths shorter than 600mm

      • Kiz on 03/07/2024 - 11:58

        Yeah they usually have a minimum safety as the risk of injury increases with the shorter lengths

    • Scrooge McDeal on 03/07/2024 - 12:11
      +1

      Most of the times are pretty chilled. They don't mind doing more cuts, as long as people don't go on busy times.

      • Jimothy Wongingtons on 03/07/2024 - 12:37

        prob, most of the time i rock up to the trades area they are just doing busy work like sweeping and arranging stock anyway trying to look busy during off-peak.

        • Ham Dragon on 03/07/2024 - 13:24
          -5

          I think it's the only area I see anyone remotely interested in assisting. Everywhere else they hide / ignore you, or are goofing off. Last visit they were throwing things at each other.

          Also, LOL at Bunnings droids negging the comment.

    • MikeK on 03/07/2024 - 14:04
      +3

      When I bought my place I picked up a Bunnings magazine that had plans for a workbench. I fancied putting one together, so I planned out the cuts required to 2.4m untreated pine and some sheets for surfaces. This was a 3-level bench with way too many joists! That was probably 30+ cuts of maybe 5 or 6 different lengths. They probably weren't spot on the measurements from the plan, but since each different sized section was the same, they all screwed together just fine. At that point I just needed to drill a few holes and it was then practically a flatpack build! Old mate didn't mind a bit. Mind you, this was 10+ years ago!

  • life is suffering on 03/07/2024 - 11:47
    +1

    Wow didn’t know this. We have a mini project at home but didn’t start as I needed saw etc. thanks OP

  • JointyJay on 03/07/2024 - 11:54
    +2

    Really handy service. Ive been using it mainly for cutting down long lengths of timber to fit in the car.

    My local has a sign saying they are unable to cut MDF - would anyone know if this is the case for all stores?

    • Jimothy Wongingtons on 03/07/2024 - 11:58

      It is the same case at my two locals..

      • JointyJay on 03/07/2024 - 12:00
        +7

        Thanks, saved me a trip to the next Bunnings down the road. Makes sense i guess, MDF is pretty nasty stuff and it doesnt seem they are setup with suitable dust extraction

        • Chrysuss on 03/07/2024 - 12:24
          +2

          Not just that, but MDF has lots of recycled materials mixed in including what looks like tiny metal pieces. When I use to work there, we were told not to cut MDF due to it being a fire risk.

          • JointyJay on 03/07/2024 - 12:41

            @Chrysuss: Interesting, I hadn't heard that before, could also explain why it seems to dull blades quickly

    • Kiz on 03/07/2024 - 12:00
      +5

      I think it is because of the safety risks of urea-formaldehyde. Need to have well ventilated and extraction areas usually

      • ATTS on 03/07/2024 - 19:00

        Oh does wood dust have formaldehyde aswell?

        Think remember reading saw dust is carcinogenic aswell

    • BOGOF on 03/07/2024 - 12:16
      +1

      Haven't asked to cut MDF, but my local has cut laminate particle board for me.

      • JointyJay on 03/07/2024 - 12:41

        Good to know, laminate could be a good alternative for a project I have in mind

      • Stewardo on 03/07/2024 - 16:43

        Melamine particle board would have similar safety risks to MDF.

        • BOGOF on 03/07/2024 - 18:03

          Maybe?
          However, it's Bunnings that cuts it, not me.

        • alcadive on 03/07/2024 - 22:20

          They wear respirators. Maybe the lower density of particle board makes it safer.

    • Mr BoMBAStiG on 03/07/2024 - 12:54
      +3

      MDF dust will be thought of in the same way asbestos is soon, very bad stuff.

      • Stewardo on 03/07/2024 - 16:53
        +3

        Carc. 1A
        H350 May cause cancer.
        H302 Harmful if swallowed.
        H312 Harmful in contact with skin.
        H332 Harmful if inhaled.
        H315 Causes skin irritation.
        H319 Causes serious eye irritation.
        H317 May cause an allergic skin reaction. H335 May cause respiratory irritation.
        H302+H312+H332 Harmful if swallowed, in contact with skin or if inhaled. H315 Causes skin irritation.
        H319 Causes serious eye irritation.
        H317 May cause an allergic skin reaction.
        H350 May cause cancer.
        H335 May cause respiratory irritation.
        Precautionary Statements
        P261 Avoid breathing dust/fume/gas/mist/vapours/spray.
        P280 Wear protective gloves/protective clothing/eye protection/face protection. P264 Wash hands thoroughly after handling.
        P270 Do not eat, drink or smoke when using this product.
        P271 Use only outdoors or in a well-ventilated area.
        (Contd. on page 2)

        Printing date 08.12.2015
        Product Name: MDF PANELS
        Revision: 08.12.2015
        (Contd. of page 1)
        P272
        P201
        P202 P305+P351+P338
        P321 P301+P312 P304+P340 P308+P313 P333+P313 P337+P313 P330 P302+P352 P362+P364 P405 P403+P233 P501
        Contaminated work clothing should not be allowed out of the workplace. Obtain special instructions before use.
        Do not handle until all safety precautions have been read and understood.
        SAFETY DATA SHEET According to Safe Work Australia
        IF IN EYES: Rinse cautiously with water for several minutes. Remove contact lenses, if
        present and easy to do. Continue rinsing.
        Specific treatment (see on this label).
        IF SWALLOWED: Call a POISON CENTER/doctor if you feel unwell.
        IF INHALED: Remove person to fresh air and keep comfortable for breathing.
        IF exposed or concerned: Get medical advice/attention.
        If skin irritation or rash occurs: Get medical advice/attention.
        If eye irritation persists: Get medical advice/attention.
        Rinse mouth.
        IF ON SKIN: Wash with plenty of water.
        Take off contaminated clothing and wash it before reuse.
        Store locked up.
        Store in a well-ventilated place. Keep container tightly closed.
        Dispose of contents/container in accordance with local/regional/national regulations.
        3 . COMPOSITION AND INFORMATION ON INGREDIENTS
        Chemical Characterization: Mixtures
        Description: Mixture of substances listed below with nonhazardous additions.
        Hazardous Components:
        12125-02-9 ammonium chloride
        Acute Tox. (Oral) 4, H302; Eye Irrit. 2A, H319
        8002-74-2 Paraffin waxes and Hydrocarbon waxes
        Additional information:
        0.8-2% 0.5-1.5%
        Page 2/7
        50-00-0
        Formaldehyde
        <10%
        Acute Tox. (Oral) 3, H301; Acute Tox. (Dermal) 3, H311; Acute Tox. (Inhalation) 3, H331; Muta. 2, H341; Carc. 1B, H350; Skin Corr. 1B, H314; Skin Sens. 1, H317
        Wood fibre, including eucalyptus, CAS No. not supplied, 80-85%.
        The ingredients are bound together under heat and pressure. The process cures the resin but small amounts of formaldehyde from the resin may be released from the finished product.

    • SpainKing on 03/07/2024 - 13:59

      I bought some treated pine and tried to get it cut but was informed they're not allowed to do that either

      • JointyJay on 03/07/2024 - 14:33
        +2

        At least at my local, I have had no dramas getting H3 pine cut. Must vary from store to store

    • ATTS on 03/07/2024 - 18:11

      Do they cut anything that is unsafe to inhale?

      Worried about breathing in bad stuff when picking up offcuts?

  • will05 on 03/07/2024 - 11:56
    +1

    keep in mind they only do straight cut/s. so if you have off cuts or dual line they can't do it.

    • megadeth on 03/07/2024 - 21:10

      Yeah, wanted to cut some inclined purlins for a pergola roof. Bunnings didn't help. Had to DIY.

  • Fireblade RR-R SP on 03/07/2024 - 11:56

    First 2 lengths can be cut for free and one panel or sheet can be cut for free. You will usually not get charged if you are buying a lot of timber!

  • yoyobananas on 03/07/2024 - 11:58

    How much do the cuts cost after the free one?

    • Irishness on 03/07/2024 - 12:00
      +1

      its in the description

      • Jimothy Wongingtons on 03/07/2024 - 12:03
        +1

        even at $3.50 per extra cut, the time it took to setup, cut, and clean up in a home setup after is already more than $3.50 worth, still a bargain.

    • Mr BoMBAStiG on 03/07/2024 - 12:49

      Click the deal link.

  • Teebytok on 03/07/2024 - 12:04

    WTF my Bunnings in melbourne makes you pay $2 for every cut. I'll send a pic of the sign next time I'm in

    • foreverphoenix on 03/07/2024 - 12:12
      +8

      So that makes jv right then. Those trigger happy neg voters must be feeling like a bunch of nitwits now lol 😂

      • ThePasserby on 03/07/2024 - 12:16
        +2

        At least we can slam their own T&C back at them when they are on a bad mood.

        • foreverphoenix on 03/07/2024 - 12:47

          I think it’s better overall to go when it’s quiet so they’re in a good mood but yeah I have a project needing timber so will test it out soon

      • Teebytok on 03/07/2024 - 13:16
        +1

        LMAO don't worry about JV, he thrives on the hate (but tbh he isn't wrong half of the time)

  • thydzik on 03/07/2024 - 12:18

    they are unable to cut the Specrite panels due to their 26mm thickness and laminated construction.

    • HomebrewFC on 03/07/2024 - 12:25

      Thanks for the heads up - I was about to buy a 2200mm acacia board that I needed cut into halves…Does this mean I'm going to have trouble with my circular saw too?

      • thydzik on 03/07/2024 - 12:32

        Bunnings suggested to use a circular saw at home. I didn't have an issue.

      • Jimothy Wongingtons on 03/07/2024 - 12:42

        thats weird im fairly sure mine was the acacia specrite brand one that im using for my desk's top.
        mine might have been the 1800mm 18mm one though. I dont really remember.

    • carboncider on 03/07/2024 - 16:03

      The guy at my Bunnings didnt seem to mind, he did 2 cuts for me. I had the measurements ready and still had the plastic on (obviously I removed the plastic before handing it over).

      Really does depend on their mood.

      • alcadive on 03/07/2024 - 22:23

        Some stores have different saws. It might be safe to cut with some. Either that or you got someone who didn’t know or care about the safety rules lol

  • chipar on 03/07/2024 - 12:32

    Do they cut - length wise (1.8m) at 45 degree to make French cleats from plywood. Won’t mind paying a fee

  • creesy on 03/07/2024 - 12:38
    -3

    I know the comment about parking in the trade area is a bit tongue in cheek, but I do think Bunnings need to change their policy on this to only allow either utes/vans/trucks or powerpass holders only.

    There is literally zero reason anyone with a sedan or hatchback should be parking in there.

    • Mr BoMBAStiG on 03/07/2024 - 12:51
      +8

      If I'm buying timber that I am going to load into my car or strap to my racks, I'm parking my SUV in there.

      • creesy on 03/07/2024 - 13:34
        +3

        Which is fair enough. I'm talking about the people that bring the family and go for an hour long expedition around the store to either buy nothing or something that isn't even a "trade" product.

        It's not an overflow carpack.

    • BOGOF on 03/07/2024 - 12:54
      +1

      I often take my hatchback in there to load up timber, bags of cement/concrete etc. There's one of many reasons.

      • creesy on 03/07/2024 - 13:32

        I'm sure there are plenty of people with legitimate reasons for using the trade entrance.

        The problem is there are too many that use it because they are lazy and go off and explore every aisle in bunnings to come back with a packet of screws and some fairy lights.

        But hey it's open to everyone so I can see why people take advantage of it.

  • EmployeeApplause @ Bunnings Warehouse on 03/07/2024 - 12:40
    +6

    Not an official response. I work there through. Here are some of the limitations.

    Cut Shop Services
    • Cuts to timber and panel boards are rounded off to 100mm increments.
    Precision cuts are unattainable.
    • Minimum length of cut timber is 600mm.
    • Customers are required to purchase any remaining off cuts measuring less than 1800mm.
    • Multiple timber cuts may incur a charge of $1 per cut.
    • The following materials are unable to be cut:
    - Villaboard
    - Kitchen benchtops
    - Plasterboard
    - Metal products
    - Cement sheet
    - Perspex or plastic
    - Doors
    - Sleepers
    • Bunnings cannot accept refunds and exchanges on cut timber, nor take responsibility for incorrect measurements provided by customers.

    • Jimothy Wongingtons on 03/07/2024 - 12:46
      +4

      nor take responsibility for incorrect measurements provided by customers.

      i love how this needs to be said and stated as a disclaimer - some people aye

    • GordonD on 03/07/2024 - 15:00
      -2

      Metal products

      Thanks for the info Mr Bunnings employee, but you just lost your company a sale.

      I want to extend my colorbond fence up by 300mm to the maximum allowed 2.1m, and I assumed I'd be able to buy matching sheets from Bunnings, get the cut into thirds of sheets, and screw them in place overlapping the current sheets.

      But you've told me Bunnings won't cut them.

      • banana365 on 03/07/2024 - 15:38
        +2

        You expected a free wood cutting service to cut metal? Buy a nibbler attachment for your drill, clamp a straight bit of timber where you want to make the cut and nibble away. It's very noisy (wear hearing protection) and messy (lots of little crescents of sharp metal, so do it somewhere you can sweep up, wear eye protection). It's a colder process than an angle grinder so is less likely to encourage rust. Paint/rust-proof the cut edge anyway.

      • Magpye on 04/07/2024 - 05:06
        +3

        but you just lost your company a sale.

        There was never a sale in the first place, but he has saved you a trip to Bunnings, only to be told the exact same thing.
        Instead of sulking, why not just say thanks ?

  • joshjosh210 on 03/07/2024 - 12:48
    +3

    Can be handy, but often the cuts aren't exact. Great for getting timber into the car but would cut it to the exact size once back at home.

    • foreverphoenix on 03/07/2024 - 13:00
      +3

      They’ve been very accurate down to the millimetre with my previous projects. I guess it depends on who does the cuts.

      • BOGOF on 03/07/2024 - 13:16
        -1

        It's hit and miss. If wanting accurate cuts ask them when the saw was last calibrated.

        • banana365 on 03/07/2024 - 21:30
          +1

          And expect a blank look of incomprehension in return.

          • BOGOF on 04/07/2024 - 08:43
            -1

            @banana365: No you won't, Clearly you haven't asked, whereas i have been told by Bunning staff that the saw is regularly calibrated, and has a record of inspections & calibration attached to the machine.

    • Ham Dragon on 03/07/2024 - 13:27

      This. I'd think twice before entrusting someone whose experience or abilities are limited to "trust me bro" to work on expensive building materials. If you can get away with just halving it for vehicle transport, do it, otherwise use the courtesy ute if viable.

    • banana365 on 03/07/2024 - 22:58

      I take a battery powered circular saw (when I remember) if I'm buying big sheets. Mainly though, I buy plywood anywhere other than Bunnings. Their stuff is expensive. Look for a supplier nearby. I've done that in Perth and there are a few that are maybe two thirds the price of Bunnings and their quality is far better. What Bunnings call B grade, the others would call C grade.

      • joshjosh210 on 04/07/2024 - 06:35
        +1

        100%, I don't have a battery circ but have used my battery powered drop saw in the car park of Bunnings at least a dozen times. Also one time used an angle grinder to cut the roof off a scrap car in their carpark which got some looks - LOL.

  • madseason on 03/07/2024 - 13:16

    There appears to be mixed messaging going on but if I wanted some wood cut to specifications for say decking pieces, would that be an option?

    • Jimothy Wongingtons on 03/07/2024 - 13:27
      +1

      If you’re okay with them maybe being off a few mm variance I guess

  • donkcat on 03/07/2024 - 13:23
    +2

    Don't expect the cut to be straight, also Mitre 10's I've been to offer this service for free, and unlike Bunnings they will even let you put offcuts back and pay for what you require (subject to length and size)

  • Duck Mode on 03/07/2024 - 13:30
    +1

    7am or close to when they close, keeping in mind the timber section gets fairly understaffed close to closing time

    Would be a jerk move to do that to retail workers as they usually have a number of things to get done before closing.

    • Mr BoMBAStiG on 03/07/2024 - 14:05
      +1

      When would you go to have the least impact on their daily duties?

      • notJV on 03/07/2024 - 15:00

        Before they clock off.

        • Forfiet on 03/07/2024 - 23:24

          In the car park or when they are sampling a cheeky snag from the stand, amiright!? ;P

          P.S I kid…… never interrupt a man(or women) and his snag……

      • Duck Mode on 31/07/2024 - 21:05

        Sorry, I only just saw this comment.

        I suppose it depends how much you have to cut.

        I personally aim for about midday or early afternoon if i can, otherwise no less than 30 minutes before closing if it's only a few cuts/they're not too busy with customers/if you're a bit desperate.

        • Mr BoMBAStiG on 01/08/2024 - 07:29

          So literally their busiest times according to google maps popular times graph, cool.

    • banana365 on 04/07/2024 - 12:29
      +1

      I used to hate that when people came into the deli I worked at as a kid. They'd wait until 5 minutes before closing time and ask for newly sliced ham. We stripped the slicer down an hour before closing as it takes a while to clean. Most would understand and be absolutely fine when we said we couldn't do it, one or two would kick off. Usually the same ones that tried to get us to use the same machine to cut thin slices of cheese (a definite no on that one, no matter when they asked).

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