The types of saws and their uses

In the ever-changing field of construction, using accurate and effective tools can make a big difference between a project that goes well and one that faces problems.

Saws, which come in many types, are important tools for construction workers. They help with tasks like shaping wood and cutting tough materials like concrete and metal. In this detailed guide, we will aim to explore different types of saws, what they're used for, their advantages, and good brands to consider. If you work in construction, this guide can help you choose the right saw for any job.

A comprehensive guide to types of saws and their uses

Chop Saws

These saws can be used to make straight and mitred cuts into woods and metals, including mild steel, stainless steel, skirting board and coving. Types of chop saws include:

Compound Mitre Saw

• The compound mitre saw is fantastic when it comes to creating precise angled cuts.
• The real beauty of this tool lies in its ability to make both bevel and mitre cuts simultaneously. This versatility makes it an invaluable asset in tasks such as creating elegant crown moulding, crafting intricate frames, and executing trim work that requires impeccable accuracy.
• Carpenters and woodworkers tend to use this saw for its exceptional ability to achieve complex angles effortlessly.

Metal Cutting Chop Saw

• When the task at hand involves the manipulation of metal materials, the metal cutting chop saw takes the stage.
• It boasts a robust motor and is typically equipped with an abrasive or toothed blade, specifically designed to cut through metal pipes, rods, and sheets with ease.
• From fabricating metal structures to crafting installations, this saw is the typical chop saw of choice for construction professionals who deal with metalwork.

Abrasive Chop Saw

• In situations demanding the cutting of tough materials like steel and masonry, the abrasive chop saw emerges as the ideal companion.
• Its high-speed rotating abrasive disc is designed to grind through challenging materials with precision and speed.
• They are also used to cut metal pipework in the M&E sector. It's crucial to observe safety measures due to the sparks and debris it generates.

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Circular Saws

Circular saws are versatile cutting tools and very efficient for cutting all types of timber boards and boards to sizes. We recently published an article on how to use a circular saw.

Types of circular saws include:

Electric Circular Saw

• The electric circular saw stands as a cornerstone tool in construction projects, and for good reason.
• Its versatility is its hallmark – equipped with a variety of blades, it's capable of cutting through wood, metal, plastic, and more.
• With adjustable cutting depths and angles, this saw adapts seamlessly to tasks ranging from straightforward framing to intricate woodworking tasks on site or within a workshop.

Cordless Circular Saw

• Combining portability and power, the cordless circular saw is a testament to modern tool engineering.
• Using its advanced battery technology, this saw frees construction professionals from the constraints of power outlets on site.
• Cordless circular saws match, and sometimes even surpass, their corded counterparts in terms of performance and durability.

View our circular saws for hire.

Floor Saws

Floor saws usually come with built in water tanks for complete portability. You can get both petrol and diesel floor saws. Types of floor saws include:

Floor Saw

• The floor saw takes centre stage when cutting through unyielding surfaces like concrete and asphalt.
• Its robust design, often featuring a diamond-tipped blade, empowers it to make precise cuts in tasks such as roadway repairs, expansion joint cutting, and trenching.
• The floor saw's might and precision have made it indispensable in the world of construction.

Disc Cutter Cart

• Enhancing stability and control in floor saw applications, the disc cutter cart is a thoughtful attachment that redefines cutting precision.
• This cart provides a steady platform for the floor saw, ensuring that even the most challenging cuts can be made with accuracy.
• Disc Cutter Carts are designed to adapt the popular petrol disc cutters into a lightweight and highly portable floor saw.
• Its use is particularly beneficial in demanding applications where the precise cuts are required.

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Masonry and Tile Saws

Our range of masonry and tile saws are ideal for cutting a wide range of construction materials, including brick, natural stone, ceramic tiles, concrete and more. Types of masonry and tile saws include:

Masonry Saw Bench

• When the task involves cutting through formidable materials like bricks and blocks, the masonry saw bench takes centre stage.
• Its robust construction, coupled with a water-cooled diamond blade, ensures efficient and dust-free cutting.
• When it comes to masonry projects, this tool is capable of tackling even the most challenging cutting requirements on site.

Masonry Saw Bench - Arm Radial

• For tasks that demand an extended cutting reach, the masonry saw bench with an arm radial configuration is ideal.
• With its radial arm, this saw is tailored to cutting larger masonry blocks or slabs with precision and ease.
• It offers an enhanced level of versatility and convenience, particularly in larger-scale masonry projects.

Diamond Tile Saw

• The diamond tile saw steps into the limelight when it comes to delicate and precise tile cutting.
• Engineered with a diamond-edged blade and a water cooling system, it prevents tile breakage and minimises dust generation, making it ideal for intricate tiling projects that require the utmost precision.
• The bridge saw design, with an electric tile cutter mounted to a rail, makes them the best tool for accurately cutting all manner of tiles.

View our masonry and tile saws for hire.

Plunge Saws

• Plunge saws are ideal for cutting intricate designs from solid materials or long, straight cuts which make this a versatile tool.
• These saws make plunge cuts into various materials, often eliminating the need for pre-drilling or creating pilot holes.
• Their ability to create clean and precise cuts in the middle of surfaces makes them indispensable for tasks such as cutting openings in panels, countertops, and more.

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Reciprocating Saws

Recip saws are designed for cutting through a wide range of materials including wood, plastic and metal. We currently stock electrically powered and cordless varieties from leading brands including Makita and Hilti.

Cordless reciprocating saws

• Cordless reciprocating saws offer exceptional versatility in cutting a wide range of materials, including wood, metal, and plastics.
• Their reciprocating motion, which mirrors that of a handsaw, lends itself well to tasks such as demolition work, pruning, and a variety of general construction tasks.

Electric reciprocating saws

• Best for situations where speed and ease of cutting is more important than the quality of the cut.
• Recip saws are a popular tool in the M&E sector, used by plumbers and HVAC contractors to cut pipes in tight spaces.

View our reciprocating saws for hire.

Wall Saws

• Wall saws are versatile tools with different blades available for different applications.
• Their robust design, often involving a track-mounted system, ensures that they can create openings for windows, doors, vents, and other structural elements with unparalleled accuracy and efficiency.
• Wall saws are great for making precise cuts in concrete and masonry walls.

View our wall saws for hire.

Other Commonly Used Saws

Jigsaw: The jigsaw is a versatile handheld tool that excels at making intricate curved cuts. Whether working with wood, plastic, or metal, the jigsaw's manoeuvrability and ease of use make it an indispensable tool for shaping and detailing.

Hacksaw: For tasks involving metal materials, the hacksaw provides a compact cutting solution. Its slender frame and interchangeable blades are tailored to tasks such as cutting pipes, rods, and small metal components with precision and ease.

Band Saw: Frequently found in workshops and larger construction projects, band saws employ a continuous band of toothed metal to execute curved or straight cuts in materials that range from wood to metal. Their ability to tackle intricate designs and larger pieces makes them a favourite among craftsmen and construction professionals alike.

Reputable Brands in the UK

When it comes to sourcing high-quality saws that deliver on performance, durability, and innovation, several reputable brands stand out in the UK market. These brands have earned the trust of construction professionals through their commitment to excellence:

• Bosch: Renowned for its engineering prowess, Bosch offers an array of saws that combine precision and power. With a history of innovation spanning decades, Bosch tools are often celebrated for their ergonomic design and cutting-edge features.
• DeWalt: Known for its unwavering dedication to producing rugged and reliable tools, DeWalt offers a wide range of saws catering to various construction needs. Their commitment to user-centric design and advanced technology has solidified their position as an industry leader.
• Hilti: Specializing in construction tools, Hilti provides cutting-edge saws designed to withstand demanding job site conditions.
• Makita: With a reputation for delivering tools that merge performance with durability, Makita is a go-to brand for many construction professionals. Their diverse selection of saws boasts cutting-edge technology and a commitment to meeting the demands of modern construction projects.
• Festool: Embracing a philosophy of precision and craftsmanship, Festool's saws are celebrated for their exceptional build quality and innovative features. They cater to professionals who prioritise accuracy and efficiency in their work.
• Milwaukee: Recognized for its emphasis on power and performance, Milwaukee offers a lineup of saws designed to tackle the toughest construction challenges. Their focus on providing unmatched cutting capacity and durability makes them a popular choice among professionals.

Conclusion

In the world of construction, the significance of selecting the right saw for the job cannot be overstated.

As the construction industry evolves, so too do the saws that power it, with leading brands like Bosch, DeWalt, Hilti, Makita, Festool, and Milwaukee consistently pushing the boundaries of innovation.

Construction professionals are empowered to make informed decisions that contribute to the successful outcome of any project. Whether it's precision in woodworking, resilience in metalwork, or accuracy in masonry, the diverse world of saws ensures that the right tool is always at hand for every task that the construction industry demands.