Tools of the carpentry trade evolve over the years, just as they do in any other field. At the same time, we can find tools on a site that would probably be very similar to ones used fifty, or even one hundred years ago. Saws are frequently used by your framing contractor, but there are a number of different types you could see on a work site.
Circular Saw
The circular saw is one of the most popular saws used in framing work. It has an encased circular blade and a wide base that fits flat against the material you’re cutting. On a work site, it can even be pressed into service as a substitute for a table saw. The most popular blade size is 7 ¼ inches and can also use other blades for materials like masonry. Modern circular saws can use cords or be cordless and may have features like a laser to guide the cut. Still, it is similar to one you would have found on a job site fifty years ago.
Chop Saw
A chop saw is a basic, but useful type of saw found on framing jobs. A chop saw uses a circular blade, similar to the circular saw, but is on an arm. The main purpose of a chop saw is to make vertical cuts to the wood at a 90-degree angle. Some models may allow some variation.
Miter Saw
The miter saw looks very similar to the chop saw, but it is more adjustable. Once you have an angle set, the saw can be locked in place and the worker can make multiple, identical cuts to the wood. Related is the compound miter saw, which allows for straight, mitered, angled, and compound cuts through wood. There are both cordless and corded versions of these saws.
Table Saw
Table saws have a circular blade that protrudes up from the table’s surface. The blade can then be adjusted for height to make deeper or more shallow cuts in the wood. This type of saw is particularly useful for large pieces of plywood. While they can be moved from site to site, they are bulky and not as easy to move as other types of saw.
Hand Saw
While power tools are labor savers, sometimes the job requires human power. A hand saw still has a place on the job site, often if the material being cut is simply too thick for circular blades. Hand saws vary in the number of teeth per inch and that matters for the type of cut you are making.
Reciprocating Saw
These portable saws usually have a long body and a shorter blade that moves back and forth rapidly. These are very common on many construction sites and can be found in both cordless and corded varieties. They’re very useful and portable, but they do take a steady hand to operate them. A lack of good control can lead to the blade bending or jumping.
When you choose Waldron Carpentry as your framing contractor, you won’t need to worry about the tools. Our professional carpenters will show up on time, with the right tools and materials to complete your project by your deadline. Waldron Carpentry is a licensed carpentry contractor with over 20 years of history in Southwest Florida. Our reputation in Fort Myers, Cape Coral, Naples and Lehigh Acres is one we are proud of. When we say we’ll do something, we’ll do it. It’s as simple as that. Contact us at our website or call us at (239) 707-1770. We look forward to building a relationship with you.