Slate is one of the most versatile building materials used in construction today, and it has been valued for hundreds of years because of its natural strength and durability, among other properties. It’s an extremely popular material for all areas of the house, both inside and out, which is why many people are starting DIY projects that require cutting slate tile. Here, we’ll discuss the ins and outs of cutting slate tile using a circular saw or a wet tile saw. CUTTING SLATE TILE – GETTING READY Slate tiles have been made for centuries because the composition of the stone makes it relatively easy to split a large slab into thin, smooth sheets. It’s a highly resistant material, almost completely waterproof even without sealant, chemically inert, and fireproof. Because it absorbs practically no water, it stands up very well to freezing temperatures, where other materials like concrete will often crack due to constant expansion and contraction. Despite its durability, slate is a comparatively soft type of stone. This is important to keep in mind when you are preparing your tools and equipment to cut slate tile. Other factors to consider are how many tiles you will need to cut, and how thick and large those tiles are. CUTTING SLATE TILE WITH A CIRCULAR SAW Circular saws are very versatile power tools and many people have one sitting in their garage already, so it’s tempting to want to put it to use rather than buying or renting a special wet saw for cutting tile. It is indeed possible to cut slate tile with a circular saw, but there are several things you need to keep in mind: Cutting large tiles or a large quantity of slate tiles with a circular saw is... Read More
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There are many different types of saws available in the market. The differences lie in their functions. One commonly asked type is the circular saw. This type of saw is actually electrically powered. It makes use of a flat and circular blade. The great thing about this type of saw is its multi capability to cut through wood, metal or plastic. It is used to rip through materials. This is also used for crosscutting functions. It is specially designed to cut materials that are too big for a table saw to handle. Note though that this saw type is only used for straight cuts. The tool’s basic design is comprised of a nut that serves to keep the blade in its place and the switch for turning it on or off. Another great thing about this saw is that it allows for adjustments depending on depth or height and bevel. MORE ADVANTAGES
One of the most important things to consider when performing manual work is your personal safety. You must protect yourself from all manner of risks by observing certain safety measures and wearing the right gear. Using a circular saw is no different. In fact, you may have to be a little more cautious when handling this machine. Listed below are the essential protective garment that any circular saw user ought to have. Dust mask and glasses These two are for covering your nose and eyes respectively. Even though most circular saws come equipped with a dust collector, being extra cautious has its added advantages. You never know when dust may escape the collector and find its way into your eyes or nose. Having a good dust mask means your respiratory system is well covered. The glasses, on the other hand, provide a shield for your eyes. Better safe than sorry. Ear plugs 105 decibels of volume is not something you would want anywhere close to your eardrums. That is the amount of noise produced by a circular saw when at work. Now, you may not be able to block all the noise, but you should at least cover your ears so that the noise doesn’t pose any significant threat. Appropriate footwear Your feet are at a very high risk of being hit by falling timber or even being cut by the circular saw should it fall from your hands accidentally. You should never take any chances. Start shopping for strong boots that will keep your feet well protected. They will also shield the feet from sharp objects such as nails found around the work area. Protective clothing The type of clothing you put on should be safe for that type of work environment. Keep off from any loose clothing which may be caught up in the machine or on any object lying around. The same goes for accessories and jewellery. Plus, if you have long hair, have it tied or keep it covered until after you have finished working. Thick gloves When talking about gloves, it is advisable to put them on while checking the blade. This should be when the machine is off. Sharp blades could cut you when held with bare hands. However, when busy cutting timber and other materials, you may have to remove the gloves to avoid a case where they end up being caught by the rotating blade. Lastly, make sure you have other small equipment such as the clamp. They may not be grouped as safety equipment, but, by holding the timber in place as you work means you won’t have to worry about the pieces falling on your feet. All that remains now is for you to use the machine in the right manner. Follow all the instructions on the user manual and everything would be fine. Left-handed individuals are advised to get circular saws with blades on the right, while the right handed should be looking for saws with blades on the left. Feel free to ask for help from an expert or whoever will be selling the circular saw to you. He has more experience and can even perform a small demonstration. Getting all the necessary information should make things easy, hence keeping you safe. Most accidents usually happen due to people’s ignorance or carelessness, whereby one assumes that they will be more careful. Unfortunately, most of the time you will never see it coming. Wearing protective gear is the only effective way of protecting yourself. You just need to make it a habit every time you are using your circular saw. For more about circular saw... Click Here
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I am an avid lover of power tools, as is my wife. I have always enjoyed taking things apart and then rebuilding them. It really gives me a great insight as to how they work and thus allows me to use them better. ArchivesCategories |