Ever needed to know which type of saw is right for a particular job? Or how to use it? Tools help make wood cutting less complicated, faster and more accurate. Provided they are used correctly and carefully, they can be of immense advantage when embarking on a new project with lumber. There are a large variety of different saws that can be used to cut wood. This short article is packed with tips that may help you in your job and is a guide to some types of saws available.
Steps
Step 1. Use a jigsaw
You can fit different blades to suit different types of solid wood, such as plywood, chipboard or even hardboard. Jigsaws are specifically suited for cutting lumber. They can make both straight and curved cutouts.
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When making a cut, place the wood on the bench and make sure the area to be cut is clear of any obstructions, so that you can be sure you are not cutting anything you don't want.
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The cutouts are made as the blade rises up through the wood. Which means the cleaner side will be at the bottom. Keep this in mind as you place the lumber for a cutout, especially if you are cutting solid wood that has a melamine coating or surface.
Cut Wood Using Various Power Tools Step 1Bullet2 - Jigsaws often have an adjustable pace and are available with a device capable of removing airborne dirt and dust, as well as variable base flat views.
Step 2. Use a circular saw
These are used to cut lumber, MDF (medium density fibreboard), blockboard and plywood. These make straight cut lines. As with a jigsaw, this cut is done as the blades rise up through the lumber, so the cleaner side will be on the underside.
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When making a new cutout, place the coated surface of the lumber on a bench and make sure you aren't cutting what you shouldn't.
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Circular saws generally have variable cutting capabilities, adjustable speeds, a variable cutting line indicator, a depth adjuster, a lever for remote control of the lower guard lift, a dust removal system and a safety switch. There are usually several accessories and blades available.
Cut Wood Using Various Power Tools Step 2Bullet2 - Circular saw accessories are also available, which could be mounted on top of the power drill.
Step 3. Use a frame saw
This is used for all types of general-purpose joinery, such as cutting skirting boards, bulkheads and lintels. It could virtually make any cut when a specific angle is essential, which includes miter cuts. A picture frame saw is a “fixed” saw, that is, it does not need to be moved manually as it cuts the wood that runs under it. You must therefore use extra attention to never place your hands on the spot when making a cut.
- To use a picture frame saw, you should make sure that the lumber you would like to cut is clamped tightly, even a small movement can hit the cut as well as cause a poor joint.
- A framing saw should be used with a table saw or possibly a work table to support the lumber and saw as you do the work.
- Miter saws are the simplest forms of picture frame saws. These include a saw suspended over the lumber with a hinge. To produce a cut you will pull the saw straight down, towards the wood. The size of the blade will determine the size of the cut you can make.
- Sliding frame saws tend to be superior. As well as including the same capabilities as a miter saw, they also have the sliding function so that the saw can slide along the rail or perhaps a guide. This means they are often used to produce a wider cut than a miter saw would.
Step 4. Use a jigsaw
Jigsaws are often used for demolition work rather than construction work. This is because they are more suitable for making quick and "rough" cuts. They are not suitable for any kind of accurate cutting. Therefore they are normally used for jobs such as pulling out old window frames or even cutting tree roots. They make basic, rough cuts - similar to what a chainsaw would probably do. Due to its shape, a jigsaw can often be used to make cuts in places where other power tools would not be able to work.
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A jigsaw needs to be held with both hands when using it. To keep the hacksaw fixed, you have to be careful. Placing the end of the tool against the wood could help keep it in place.
Cut Wood Using Various Power Tools Step 4Bullet1 - When using a jigsaw it is possible that the blade gets trapped in the lumber, so you should be careful to plan your cuts and make sure that wherever possible the wood you want to cut cannot "get close" around the blade. Lubricating the blade can also help.
- Jigsaws often have adjustable speed settings. Some are available with a blade replacement implant that does not require a different tool (while others need an Allen key). Many jigsaws feature orbital blade motion which can often help make cuts faster.
- If cordless jigsaws are available, these might be a good choice for use in hard-to-reach areas.
Step 5. Use a portable circular saw
This is useful for cutting the bottom edges of doors while they are in place. Make simple push cuts. A portable circular saw should be held with both hands and should be used very slowly and firmly.
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The saw should be used when the door to be cut is closed. You have to gradually push the saw into the lower part of the door until it meets the edge and no further. Then you should run the saw very carefully along the edge of the door with constant speed, keeping the plate in contact with the floor for guidance. You need to stop before you reach the edge of the door to make sure you don't damage the frame. The cut can then be completed while the door is open.
Cut Wood Using Various Power Tools Step 5Bullet1 - The only distinctions between the different types of portable circular saws are the depth of the cut and the height of the blade from the ground.
Advice
- As mentioned at the beginning of the article, DIY equipment could be dangerous, so use it carefully and wisely.
- You will need to wear eye protection and gloves when using most power tools; you may also need to wear ear defenders if you use noisy machines.
- Always follow the manufacturer's recommendations for individual tools.
