Plywood is one of the most versatile building materials that can be used in a variety of applications. However, it can be challenging to work with, especially when cutting it with a circular saw. One of the most common issues that people face when cutting plywood is splintering. Splintering occurs when the blade cuts through the wood, causing the edges to crack and break away. This not only ruins the aesthetics of the plywood but can also compromise its structural integrity. In this article, we will go through some tips on how to keep plywood from splintering when cutting with a circular saw.
1. Use the Right Blade
The key to cutting plywood without splintering is to use the right blade. A blade with a high tooth count will produce a smoother cut and reduce the likelihood of splintering. A blade with 60 to 80 teeth is ideal for cutting plywood. The blade should also be sharp and in good condition. Dull blades can cause splintering, so it’s essential to replace them when necessary.
2. Adjust the Depth of the Blade
The depth of the blade is another critical factor in preventing splintering. The blade should be set just deep enough to cut through the plywood. If the blade is set too deep, it can cause the wood to splinter as it cuts through. Adjust the depth of the blade to ensure that it only cuts through the plywood and not any underlying material.
3. Use a Guide
Using a guide when cutting plywood can help to prevent splintering. A guide can be as simple as a straight piece of wood clamped to the plywood to provide a straight edge. This will ensure that the saw cuts straight and prevents the blade from wandering, which can cause splintering. A guide can also help to keep the blade from binding, which can also cause splintering.
4. Score the Plywood
Scoring the plywood before cutting can help to prevent splintering. This involves making a shallow cut along the cut line before making the full cut. This weakens the wood fibers along the cut line, making it less likely to splinter. Use a utility knife or a saw blade to make the score line, ensuring that it is shallow enough not to cut through the plywood.
5. Use Masking Tape
Applying masking tape to the cut line can also help to prevent splintering. The tape provides support to the wood fibers as the blade cuts through, reducing the likelihood of splintering. Apply the tape to the top of the plywood, ensuring that it covers the cut line. Use a sharp utility knife to cut through the tape along the cut line before making the full cut.
6. Cut from the Back
Cutting from the back of the plywood can also help to prevent splintering. This involves turning the plywood over and cutting from the backside. This technique works because the blade cuts through the wood fibers in the opposite direction, which can reduce splintering. However, it’s essential to ensure that the blade is sharp and in good condition to prevent tear-out on the backside.
In conclusion, cutting plywood with a circular saw can be challenging, but with the right technique, you can prevent splintering. Remember to use the right blade, adjust the depth of the blade, use a guide, score the plywood, use masking tape, and cut from the back to prevent splintering. By following these tips, you can achieve a clean and precise cut without compromising the quality of the plywood.
Further reading: Should I Lubricate Circular Saw Blade?
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What causes plywood to splinter when cutting with a circular saw?
Plywood may splinter when cutting with a circular saw due to a dull blade, incorrect blade size, or incorrect cutting technique.
2. How can I prevent plywood from splintering when cutting with a circular saw?
To prevent plywood from splintering when cutting with a circular saw, ensure that you use a sharp blade that is the correct size for the plywood thickness. You can also score the plywood before cutting, use a zero-clearance insert, or use a sacrificial backing board.
3. What is a zero-clearance insert?
A zero-clearance insert is a custom-made insert that fits into the saw’s throat plate to provide support for the plywood during cutting. It helps to prevent splintering by reducing the gap between the blade and the saw’s throat plate.
4. What is a sacrificial backing board?
A sacrificial backing board is a piece of scrap wood that is placed underneath the plywood during cutting. It provides additional support and prevents the plywood from splintering by absorbing the blade’s impact. The backing board should be slightly wider than the plywood to ensure full support.
More to explore: Who Invented The Circular Saw And When?