Tips For Using A Rented Wet Masonry Saw For The First Time

Posted on: 4 April 2016

If you have decided that you want to install a custom brick patio in your home's backyard, then you will be happy to know that it is easy to cut bricks into various shapes using a rented wet masonry saw.

In order to safely operate your rented wet masonry saw, follow these tips:

Install the Right Blade in the Correct Direction

Just as with wood cutting blades, masonry blades are sold in a variety of configurations depending upon the hardness level of the material they will be cutting. To cut bricks, you will need a diamond blade that is rated for coarse cutting.

When you load the blade into the saw's head, make sure that you follow the arrows on the saw's cover and those on the blade to ensure that you install the diamond blade in the correct direction for optimal cutting. While the blade will work if you load it backward, the diamonds will quickly become abraded and you will need to replace the blade before you finish installing your new patio.

Keep Ample Water in the Tray

Unlike cutting wood, cutting bricks and other masonry products requires that you have a constant supply of water flowing over the blade. The water acts as both a lubricant and a cooling agent for the blade which builds up heat from friction. Masonry saws typically have recirculating water trays that hold a few gallons of water inside of them and a pump that recirculates the water up onto the blade.

However, since the saw will throw back a fair amount of water as you make cuts, you should plan to replace the water in the tray very regularly. At the conclusion of each brick cutting, take a moment to check the water level in the tray and replace any missing water. A lack of water flow will make cutting take longer and will damage your diamond blade.

Rejuvenate Your Saw's Blade to Make Cutting Easier

Finally, if you notice that your wet masonry saw blade is not cutting as well as when you first started your patio project, then you can rejuvenate the diamond surface and fix the problem. To rejuvenate the blade, load it the opposite direction in your saw and cut through your next brick. This will remove any crusting over the diamonds and bring new diamonds to the surface of the blade. After cutting this brick, then turn the blade back to its correct direction and you will notice that it will cut your bricks well again. You can repeat this procedure many times with the same blade before it needs to be replaced. To learn more, contact a business like White Bear Rental.

Share