For construction projects and heavy-duty carpentry, circular saws are typically used more than a hammer. General contractor Tom Silva provides some basic information on how to use circular saws -- safely and efficiently. He also gives some pointers on how to use a square as a guide for cross-cutting with a circular saw.
The Circular Saw
- The main components of a circular saw (figure A) include the motor, blade, trigger-switch and a base.
- In order to work properly and accurately, the saw's blade must be very sharp and the base (figure B) must be flat and true. If it should become damaged or bent, the base must be repaired or straightened.
- Typically, circular saws have an adjustment so that the body can be tipped and the blade adjusted to angles up to 45 degrees (figure C) for angle- or bevel-cutting.
- An adjustable base-plate (figure D) allows the height to be adjusted to vary the depth of the cuts.
Circular-Saw Safety
- Perhaps the most important feature on a circular saw is the blade-guard (figure E). This safety feature is a protective shield that automatically pushes back when the saw is in use, then snaps into position to cover the blade as soon as you finish a cut.
- The guard protects you from potential injury by keeping the blade from ever coming into contact with you (figure F).
Circular-Saw Cutting Technique
- To make a clean cut efficiently using a circular saw, first mark your board to indicate the exact location of your cut. Use the indicator guide on the base to ensure that the saw blade is lined up precisely with the line you intend to cut (figure G)
- Use a carpenter's square, resting against the edge of the saw's base (figure H), as a guide.
- Holding the square firmly in place, and grasping the saw securely, turn on the saw and push gently through the cut (figures I and J), allowing the saw to "do the work for you."
RESOURCES :
HGTV's Complete Fix-It
Author: HGTV
Ask This Old House web site
Ask This Old House web site
Website: www.thisoldhouse.com/toh/asktoh/
Ask This Old House online episode guide
Ask This Old House online episode guide
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