Choosing the correct diamond saw for the job at hand is always important. Whether you are a contractor, or doing some DIY at home the right tool can make the difference between a finish you can be proud of, and quite frankly an embarrassing mess.
Likewise, what ever your experience level there are going to be situations where you have to cut an unfamiliar material and knowing which blade to use can be an issue.
In this article we will look at some of the things you should consider when choosing the right diamond saw blade for your project.
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Correctly Identify What You Are Cutting
The first step in the process of selecting the correct diamond saw blade is knowing exactly what you are going to be cutting.
The type of material you are working with will directly affect the speed at which you can cut, plus the lifespan of the blade. Essentially you need something durable enough for the task.
To achieve the best performance from a diamond blade it should be matched with the material you are cutting.
Most commercially available blades will state on the packaging what they are designed to cut. Armed with this information you will be able to purchase accordingly.
Decide on the type of cutting
Another step you need to take before selecting and/or purchasing a new diamond blade for a job, is the type of cutting you intend to carry out.
Wet or dry is generally a matter of user preference, the tools at hand and the demands of the project.
For example, most hand power saws are not designed to be used with water cooling, (that old chestnut of water and electricity not mixing be the main problem).
However, specifically built concrete or tile saws will be designed to accommodate a flow of water throughout the cut.
This all helps your blade choice for the simple, following reason; wet blades should only be used for wet cutting and dry blades for dry cutting. You should not mix and match.
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Remember the other variables
Diamond saw blade segment height is another variable you need to consider. The fact is, by itself segment height is not a true measure of the blade’s value. Other factors always come in to play.
Apart from diamond size, you should pay attention to the brand, build quality, hardness of the bond and the overall cutting power of the tool you will be using.
Before making your purchase
Because of the wide range of blades available, there two final issues you should consider once you have selected the type of blade you wish to use:
- The price of the blade;
- the cost per cut.
This is more important for contractors that need to balance the cost of the job with what is being paid by the client.
For smaller jobs a low priced blade that is up to the task is the correct choice.
For larger jobs a higher priced blade will end up being more cost effective as it will deliver you the lowest cost per cut.
For really big jobs the cost per cut is definitely more important than the initial purchase price of the blade.
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- Diamond saw blades are manufactured to work with a specific medium. You should always match the job with the bond of the blade. Never use a diamond saw blade designed for concrete on tile and vice-versa.
- Wet or dry blades are different. Choose the right blade for the cutting type you intend to carry out.
- Buying the right size diamond saw blade is important but consider brand, quality and bond type too.
- How long will the job last? On a big job, the cost per cut is the most important variable. On smaller jobs, the initial purchase price is more relevant.
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Image Credits: Triaticinc.com, DeWalt.com, Terminatordia.com
