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Cutting through thick wooden pieces can be a difficult task for your standard circular saw.
However, this task isn't impossible. In the article below, we'll explain what resources are necessary to complete the task correctly and safely.
Cutting Thick Wood With a Circular Saw
When working with various materials, you'll require multiple types and sizes of the blade to complete them properly.
Adjust The Depth Of Your Blade
Circular saws aren't exactly the tool of choice for carpenters when cutting through the thick wood. Although, it's impossible.
One way to get your blade as deep as possible is to ensure that the depth gauge of the blade is extended to its maximum ability. This will give you an idea of what thickness the blade will stop cutting and allow you to understand if you can make the final cut.
Always Measure The Width Of Your Wood
Measuring the wood is just as important as adjusting the blade depth. If your wood is 20-inches thick and your blade is only 8-inches in diameter, you'll not have enough of the blade to cut through the entire piece of wood. Even if you flipped the wood over, you'd still have a few inches left in the middle that'd need cut by hand.
Ensure The Wood Is Secure
An important safety reminder if you haven't done so already; make sure that your thick wooden beam is secured properly using either a vice or multiple clamps.
Kickback is dangerous enough on smaller, lighter wooden workpieces. But if you get on the wrong side of kickback on a thick wooden beam, you'll come out with sore bones and a few battle scars as a reminder.
The Blade Should Suit The Purpose
The blade is, of course, the most important aspect of correctly cutting a thick piece of wood; it must be large enough in diameter to cut the full thickness. It's important you get the correct size the first time; if you have to switch halfway through, the quality of the end cut might be poor.
You should also use a blade with large gutter space and between 18-40 teeth as this will remove the most material. It's best to use a combination blade for this purpose as they have an aggressive cut but still comes out reasonably smooth.
Conclusion
Cutting thick wood doesn't need to be an issue if you know what you're doing. At the beginning stages of your knowledge, this can be hard. If you follow our advice above, you'll not have an issue with cutting through thick wooden beams.