Why Is Cutting Wood Hard On Table Saw?

Do you know why it’s hard to cut wood on a table saw?

A table saw is a powerful tool that can make quick, accurate cuts in lumber. But if you’re not careful, you can easily damage the blade or the workpiece. In this article, we’ll discuss some of the reasons why cutting wood on a table saw can be difficult – and how to avoid those problems.

With the right techniques and precautions, however, you can safely cut lumber on your table saw without any trouble. So let’s get started!

Why is cutting wood hard on a table saw:

Here are some reasons why cutting wood on a table saw can be difficult:

1. The blade is exposed:

When you’re cutting wood on a table saw, the blade is exposed and it can easily cut your fingers or hands. In fact, thousands of people are injured each year by table saws – so it’s important to be very careful when using this tool.

2. The fence can be tricky to adjust:

The fence is the guide that keeps the workpiece aligned with the blade. If it’s not adjusted properly, the workpiece can move off-course and become damaged. It’s important to make sure the fence is parallel with the blade, and that it’s properly secured before you start cutting.

3. The blade can cause kickback:

Kickback is when the workpiece is kicked back towards the operator, potentially causing injuries. This can happen if the blade becomes pinched or if the wood binds against the fence. To avoid kickback, make sure you use a sharp blade and keep the sawdust cleared away from the blade.

4. The stock is often uneven:

Wood isn’t always perfectly straight, and this can cause problems when you’re trying to cut it on a table saw. Uneven stock can cause the blade to bind and kick back, so it’s important to take your time and measure twice before you start cutting.

5. The sawdust can be a safety hazard:

Sawdust is created when you cut wood, and it can cause dangerous lung conditions if you breathe it in. It’s important to wear a dust mask when cutting wood on a table saw and to keep the area clean and well-ventilated.

How to fix cutting wood hard on a table saw:

Here are some steps to fix the issue if you are finding that cutting wood is hard on your table saw.

First, make sure that the blade is sharp.

A dull blade will cause the wood to bind and be more difficult to cut. If the blade is sharp, check the fence for squareness.

If it is not square, adjust it until it is. Also, make sure the saw is properly aligned with the miter slots in the table. If it is not, adjust it accordingly.

Finally, make sure that the table itself is clean and free of debris.

Any obstructions can cause the wood to bind as well. By following these steps, you should be able to fix the issue and start cutting wood like a pro!

Safety Tips:

Here are some safety tips to keep in mind when cutting wood on a table saw:

  1. Always wear safety goggles when using a table saw. The blade can throw wood chips and other debris in your direction, and without goggles, you could end up with injuries to your eyes.
  2. Make sure the piece of wood you are cutting is properly secured to the table saw before you start the cut. You don’t want the wood to move around while you are trying to cut it, which could cause the blade to come into contact with your body.
  3. Keep your hands well away from the blade at all times. Even if the blade is stopped, it can still cause injuries if your hand comes into contact with it.
  4. Don’t try to cut pieces of wood that are too big for the table saw. It’s important to use a blade that is the right size for the thickness of the wood you are cutting. If you try to use a blade that is too big, it will be more difficult to control, and you could end up with injuries.
  5. Make sure the blade is in good condition and is properly aligned before you start cutting. If the blade is not aligned correctly, it could cause the wood to move in an unexpected direction, which could lead to injuries.
  6. Always unplug the table saw when you are finished using it. Don’t try to clean or adjust the saw while it is plugged in – you could end up getting electrocuted.

These are just a few of the safety tips you should keep in mind when using a table saw. Be sure to read the owner’s manual for your saw thoroughly, and follow all of the safety instructions.

FAQs:

Is there any special blade available for cutting wood on a table saw?

There is no special blade required for cutting wood on a table saw. Any standard blade that is the right size for the thickness of the wood you are cutting will work.

What are the dangers of not using a table saw fence? 

If you are not using a table saw fence, there is a danger of the wood being cut crooked. This could cause the blade to come into contact with your body, leading to injuries.

Is it safe to reach over the blade to adjust the table saw fence?

No, it is not safe to reach over the blade to adjust the table saw fence. You should always unplug the saw before making any adjustments.

Conclusion:

We showed you Why is cutting wood hard on a table saw is and how to fix that issue. Hopefully, this information has helped you to understand the risks involved in using this powerful tool and take precautions to avoid injury.

Remember to always use safety gear when operating any type of power tool and if you have any questions, don’t hesitate to ask in a comment below. Thanks for reading!