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How to Select the Right Masonry Saw For Cutting Tile

By: Paige Price


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Without precise, clean cuts, your tile will simply not look right no matter how pretty the design or material. That is why it is important to have the masonry saw that is right for your tile. Wet saws and dry saws are the two basic types of masonry saws. Wet masonry saws pump water over the blade as it cuts while a dry masonry saw, as the name suggests, does not. Which one you choose will depend on the type of material that you are cutting. Ceramic, slate, terra cotta and vitrified tile can be all cut using a dry saw. Denser materials such as glass, porcelain, granite and marble require a wet saw to ensure smooth cuts, even cuts and prevent the blade from overheating.

Choosing the right blade is just as important as choosing the right masonry saw. Using the wrong blade will leave you with uneven cuts. The blade needs to be the right size for the material you are cutting, along with the right strength. Steel blades are standard for most materials but diamond blades need to be used on harder material such as granite and marble. If you are using a wet saw, make sure that your blade is appropriate for a wet saw. The same goes for dry saws.

The nature of your tile project will determine if you need any additional features for your masonry saw. For small or angled tile pieces, you will need a saw with an adjustable cutting head, vibration reduction and a bevel feature with shoe. If your project involves larger tile pieces, you may want to purchase a saw that comes with a sliding table. This allows for more accurate cutting, along with providing an air filter that vacuums to remove dust as you are cutting. This vacuum system is a nice feature for any tile project that is conducted indoors. It not only makes cleaning up easier, but also ensures that hazardous dust does not pile up around the worksite. This can lead to lung disease. For this reason, it is always best to wear a face shield when cutting indoors.

No matter what masonry saw you choose, try to get something that is not too heavy so you don’t tire out too quickly. Wide hand guards and the ability to plunge cut are good additional features to have on a masonry saw as well. For ease of use, it is also a good idea to choose a saw equipped with wide hand guards. If you are required to transport the saw, it is also a smart idea to consider a portable model.

For those wishing to purchase their masonry saw online, http://www.priorityplant.com/ offers a range of professional-quality masonry saws, along with a staff that is always eager to help. Http://www.mkdiamond.com/ and http://www.constructionequipment.com/ are also worth browsing for their masonry saw selection.

Article Source: http://depositarticles.com/

Oliver Newton is a construction foreman who frequently works with masonry saws

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