How to Buy a Masonry Saw Blade

Whether you're pursuing a career in masonry or tackling a big home improvement job, a masonry saw, also called a circular saw or a cut-off saw, may come in handy. How do you choose the right masonry saw blade for the job? Here are some tips to help you make a clean cut.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Purchase a masonry saw blade at a masonry or contractor supply store or home improvement store, or via an online distributor, catalog or phone.

2. Select a 14" to 20" blade for table-mounted circular saws, used for bigger projects such as brick veneer that require a lot of cutting or fancy work.

3. Choose a 12" blade for hand-held saws when shallower cuts are required (up to three inches), and a 14" blade for deeper cuts (up to six inches). Note that the smaller blade will provide more stability than the larger blade, which can tend to wobble.

4. Look for an industrial diamond blade with the highest diamond content for best cutting. Silicon-carbide blades are also available and may cost less, but not last as long.

5. Select a wet-cut saw blade for detail work, precision cuts and harder materials such as brick pavers.

6. Plan on your masonry saw blade lasting for about six months with normal use of once a week. For daily use, plan on your saw blade lasting for about three months.

7. Have a backup blade in case one breaks on the job.

Tips & Warnings

• Some telephone salespeople will offer you a deal on multiple blades, so feel free to negotiate with your salesperson. Make sure to ask about shipping and handling and sales tax charges to make sure you're getting the best price.
• Protect yourself with the proper safety equipment while you're using a circular saw. Safety glasses are a must to protect your eyes from flying debris, as well as a dust mask or a respirator to protect your lungs from particulates.
• Remove all jewelry before using a masonry saw. Make sure that all loose clothing is tucked in.

Resources

• The Concrete Network site offers tips on buying a diamond blade.
• The Masonry for Life website gives the basics about masonry tools.