Can you cut bricks with a tile saw?
One of the main advantages of a wet tile saw is their versatility. Now that you are here, let us tell you that these machines are not only used to cut tile as its name would make you think, you can also cut brick with a tile saw. In fact, you will find not only professionals but also DIYers cutting brick with a tile saw to make the most of their investment.
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Of course, if you are looking for a saw to cut brick, you will choose either a brick saw, block saw or a masonry saw. However, if you already have a tile saw, you can use it to cut bricks and save up some money. The thing is, how can you cut brick with a tile saw? In this article, we will tell you how to use this saw to cut bricks.
Can a tile saw cut brick?
Yes. There are only two situations in which you won’t be able to use a wet tile saw to cut brick. In a few words, it depends on the size of both, your saw and the bricks.
So, you will be thinking, how can I cut brick with a tile saw? Let’s see:
First, check the max. Cutting depth of your tile saw on the manual. Most of the times it is the size of the average blade, between 2” and 2.5”. If you wanted to know how to cut thin bricks, it will be a bit easier. But if you are here to cut thicker bricks, you will have to cut the brick in at least two passes. One cut to get halfway, one cut to completely cut through. But the time it takes to run into the arbor of the blade will also limit the second pass inside the first one. In this case, make sure to properly measure and mark the brick so you can flip side and cut through the other side.
There is another limit that you can check beforehand: the cutting head of the saw, even if it is adaptable, and the diameter of the blade.
Example: your saw has a max. Cutting depth of 2”. Your bricks are 5” thick. What does this mean? The heigh adjustment of the cutting head provides the blade 3” of clearance.
A wet tile saw will allow you to cut almost every brick. The only exception are too thick bricks.
How to cut bricks using a wet tile saw
If you want to learn how to cut a brick with a wet tile saw, you just need to use the proper blade as indicated before, and use it pretty much like with tiles. The best thing you can do is always get yourself a high-quality diamond blade that has been specifically designed for bricks, in this case.
Of course, respect the general safety rules before working with a saw. Then, line up the cutting mark of your brick on the blade, and turn on the saw. Remember to check the water spraying system, the blade needs to be covered by water during the process. If it didn’t, immediately turn off the machine and fix the problem.
Do not apply much pressure on the blade while cutting, the blade itself will cut through and the saw will set the pace.
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