Circular saws are a popular choice for cutting trim due to their precision and ease of use. In this blog post, we will show you how to cut trim with a circular saw like a pro. We will also provide some tips on how to make the most of your circular saw. Happy cutting!
How to cut?
Before you can begin cutting, measure where you want your cut line. Next, place the blade on the surface of the trim at the mark. Remember that measuring twice and then marking with a pencil is always recommended. Then, push down on the saw’s base plate until it makes contact with the trim piece. At this point, you can push the saw forward to begin your cut or engage the blade’s safety switch. Just remember to keep both hands on the saw at all times.
Trimming large pieces
Although circular skills come in various sizes, larger models will always give you more cutting power so be sure to use it when necessary. Circular saws are much heavier than other hand-held tools so progress slowly and with caution if using one for an extended period of time. Luckily, most circular saws now include a lanyard loop which you can use as a handle or attach to your wrist for extra support. This is also where gloves should go if you plan on making several cuts without resting between them. This allows for better control and more comfort over the course of a project.
Cutting straight lines
If you’re having trouble keeping your circular saw on the line, try using the straight edge you can find at any hardware store as a guide. This should keep your line straighter and your cuts cleaner. If your blade tends to move off-line when making vertical cuts, place some nails in an “X” pattern near each end of the desired cut line. Make sure that they touch either side of the blade’s kerf! Finally, if you are having difficulty maintaining control of the saw while cutting vertically downward, try holding it at an angle with your free hand helping push down on the saw’s handle instead. This will allow for more precise control throughout the cut.
Safety precautions
- Circular saws are a great tool for cutting trim, but be sure to always follow the following safety precautions before doing so:
- Always wear protective glasses and earplugs to keep dust from getting in your eyes and ears.
- Do not work with the power switch off. Before changing blades or undertaking any other adjustment, make sure that the power switch is turned off or you will be forced to begin again from scratch if the blade accidentally engages.
- Unplug circular saws from outlets when not in use. That prevents them from being activated accidentally.
- Finally, remember to never stand directly behind a running saw as this leaves no room for error if something were to go wrong! Now that you’ve read up on how to cut trim with a circular saw, you can begin your project safely and efficiently!
Tips for making the most out of your circular saw
- Remember that cutting on a scrap sheet of wood before tackling the main project is always recommended in order to prevent unnecessary work in case you make any mistakes. Make sure not to use it as an extra surface for resting your arms or stepping on, however, because this will cause the sheet to warp and ruin your results!
- If you would rather have more room when cutting with a circular saw, try removing one of its wings. This makes it easier to position the tool during large cuts with no additional joints to get in your way.
- Finally, cut through nails safely by drilling pilot holes into their head first. These are much smaller than pilot holes used for screws which gives you more control over the size of your blades.
- Always wear protective glasses and earplugs to keep dust from getting in your eyes and ears.
- Never work with the power switch off. Before changing blades or undertaking any other adjustment, make sure that the power switch is turned off or you will be forced to begin again from scratch if the blade accidentally engages.
- Unplug circular saws from outlets when not in use. That prevents them from being activated accidentally.
- Finally, remember to never stand directly behind a running saw as this leaves no room for error if something were to go wrong!
Conclusion
Circular saws are great tools for smaller projects that require cutting trim. They are relatively quiet when compared to other types of saws so they won’t bother neighbors or disturb pets. Just remember the following safety precautions before cutting trim with a circular saw: wearing protective gear, unplugging it when not in use, and remembering never to stand directly behind it while it is running. With these tips in mind, you will be able to cut trim like a pro in no time!
