People use miter saws generally in plumbing activities and some other related applications. For example, suppose you buy a PVC pipe for your project that doesn’t have the right length. In that case, you must cut it to make it suitable for your project. Now today, I will walk you through how can you cut PVC with a miter saw appropriately.
How is a Miter Saw Cut PVC?
We see a PVC pipe is used for plumbing, construction, or general electrical work. Many approaches to cutting a PVC pipe and miter saws are great options to handle this task. Many people use miter saws to cut PVC pipes due to their versatility. A miter saw works more efficiently than a hacksaw, another tool to cut PVC pipe. In addition, it doesn’t require muscle strength as it is powered. Another benefit of using a miter saw is setting the angle and moving the blade down through the PVC pipe.
Many plumbers, constructors, and tradespeople use this tool. Miter saws greatly benefit from cutting PVC as they can set the angle and move the blade down through the PVC pipe. These tools can give very accurate cuts. However, don’t forget that the blades are serrated, which may create burrs on the pipe. So, you should use a fine-toothed blade to reduce this disadvantage.
How to Cut PVC with a Miter Saw
Here are the step-by-step processes to cut a PVC pipe with a miter saw. Though there are many methods to apply, these steps are practical, among other ways.
Step 1: Choosing a Suitable Blade
All you need to do at the first step of cutting a PVC pipe with a miter saw is choose the right blade. Never use an extra-sized blade that may create many burrs and damage the pipe. A fine-toothed blade works best to come up with the finest result. Smaller teeth give better results.
Step 2: Choosing the Right Angle to Cut
As you move forward to the second step, you are required to set the miter saw to the appropriate angle. If you decide to cut your PVC pipe with a 90-degree angle, make sure the blade is kept in the original 90-degree position. It is imperative to choose compound miter saws that allow the user to adjust the blade’s angle to a certain degree. The angle will be perfect from both the left and right sides.
Step 3: Marking the PVC
Now, it’s time to mark the PVC pipe in the right location where you need to cut the pipe. Place the pipe on the saw resting it against the guard. If you can do it properly, the pipe will not move from the base while cutting it. You also ensure you hold the pipe gently.
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Step 4: Cutting It
You are almost there to the very close to ending of the process. Now, you have to turn the miter saw on and activate it. Then, get the blade you choose to use to full speed. Afterward, move the blade down through the PVC pipe.
Step 5: Turning off the Miter Saw when the Blade Gets Stuck
The blade may get stuck in the middle of cutting the pipe. In that case, you must turn your miter saw off and wait until the blade stops moving. Then, repeat the entire process until you cut the pipe successfully.
Step 6: Sanding the Burrs Off
Your PVC pipe may have burrs after you cut it to the desired size. Take sandpaper to sand off those burrs in the final step. This is an optional step. So, you can skip it if you want, but if your time allows you to finish the task perfectly, you are required not to avoid it.
Tips and Tricks to Remember
- Unlike other sensitive tasks, we recommend you not to wear gloves while cutting PVC pipe with a miter saw because the mobility and sensation you need while cutting can’t be felt with hand gloves. Besides, wearing a pair of hand gloves may cause injury to your hands because you can’t be able to balance your fingers while cutting.
- Though wearing a pair of hand gloves is not essential here, using safety goggles is necessary. Wear safety goggles before doing any cutting projects to protect your eyes.
- Tie up your hair to ensure the blade does not catch them.
- You should rest the pipe gently against the rear guard to minimize movement.
- Hold the pipe firmly while cutting.
- Keep your finger safe. Make sure they don’t get too close to the blade.
- Choose a fine-toothed blade for a PVC cutting project and get the best result.
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FAQs
Is a hacksaw better than a miter saw to cut PVC pipe?
No, hacksaws are handy tools to cut PVC pipes, but they are messy and create uneven texture. In addition, it might be hard for you to cut with a hacksaw as it requires a bit of muscle strength and more time to cut a single piece of PVC pipes.
What are the things a miter saw can cut?
A miter saw is able to make angled cuts for trim work, rafters, molding, etc. This tool can efficiently make accurate straight cross-cuts. You need to fit the right blade to give a good result. People use these tools commonly for their versatility.
Is a miter saw suitable for cutting wood only?
A miter saw was previously used a lot in woodworking projects. For example, people used it for wood trimming and molding. However, this tool has expanded significantly in the last decades for cutting metal, plastics, masonry, and many other things.
Why is a miter saw better than a hacksaw?
Constructors, tradespeople, plumbers, or others commonly use a miter saw. It is a more effective tool for cutting PVC than a hacksaw. Unlike a hacksaw, a miter saw is powered. So, there is no need to use muscle strength to do the cutting task.
Conclusion
A miter saw is assuredly a better tool to cut a PVC pipe. There are other tools for this task, but using a miter saw reduces stress and saves time and effort. While cutting many PVC pipes at a time is necessary, there is no better option than a miter saw to get the job done quickly, unlike other PVC-cutting tools. Hopefully, this article has fulfilled your requirements on “can you cut PVC with a miter saw and what to do after cutting.”
