Reciprocating saws are the perfect addition to your toolkit if you have some serious DIY projects lined up. The tool has incredible potential and can help you with construction, repair, maintenance, etc. But what is that tool, and what can a reciprocating saw cut? Knowing such details is critical because it will help you know how to leverage the tool.
Although I don’t often need to use my reciprocating saw, its presence is always convenient. Therefore, I want to share some relevant knowledge. This blog will explain what a reciprocating saw can cut and provide additional details about its capabilities.
What Are Reciprocating Saws Used For?
The primary function of a reciprocating saw is to cut. It is an electric machine that allows you to cut through the material using a to and fro (or push and pull) motion. The machine is electric and convenient, allowing you to benefit from the additional power its structure generates through torque.
What Can a Reciprocating Saw Cut?
A reciprocating saw is surprisingly flexible and can cut through several materials depending on your blade. Following are some of the critical elements your saw can cut through:
1. Cast Iron
Cast iron is a rigid material, and, understandably, you’re skeptical about the likelihood of your saw cutting through it. However, you have nothing to worry about. You can cut cast iron slabs or piping using reciprocating saws as long as they do not exceed a specified size or thickness.
You need to get a diamond grit blade designed for cutting into cast iron and fit it onto the machine. This blade is generally expensive; hence, it will be a little heavy on the pocket, but it doesn’t deteriorate quickly.
Therefore, consider it a long-term investment and go for it!
2. Brick
Several blade options are meant to cut through brick and mortar. These blades have a unique design with spaced-out teeth to ensure they can cut into the rigid material. Remember that you will likely have to remove concrete before you get to brick and mortar in some situations, so you must make relevant preparations.
Diamond blades are ideal for such work, but you can also try carbide blades if you want a lower cost.
3. Aluminum
Aluminum is a malleable metal lighter than iron and not as dense. Therefore, a metal cutting blade is enough to get the work done. While things are simple when cutting relatively thin sheets, you will need an alternative approach for thicker metal sheets.
The reason is that the fast movement of the blade tends to make it heat up. The hot blade can cause the aluminum to melt and get stuck on the blade after it passes a threshold.
The best approach is to get a tougher blade (diamond or carbide) and select a slower speed setting. You can also use a lubricant to keep the blade cool to prevent any problems.
4. Drywall
Drywall is one of the easiest to cut through using a reciprocating saw. It is a thin sheet made of calcium sulfate dehydrate, used to create interior walls and ceilings. Despite being relatively sturdy, it is not hard enough to present a challenge to the saw, and you can cut through using any basic blade.
Aside from materials, you may also be curious about how effective the tool is for cutting curves. Reciprocating saws can technically help you cut material in a curved shape; however, you will not get perfect results.
Its job is to give a basic cut to make it easier for you to refine it into the final shape.
Tasks a Reciprocating Saw Can Perform
You now have an answer to ‘what a reciprocating saw cut,’ so we can move on to exploring the different tasks this tool can perform. Following are some of the most common uses of such saws:
1. Pruning Trees
It is always good to have a few trees in your garden if it is large enough. The only problem is that tree branches can sometimes grow awkwardly and disrupt routines. The best solution in such circumstances is to cut off the branches causing problems to restore normalcy.
Reciprocating saws are the best tools for the job because they are powerful and convenient. Saws have been the traditional choice for cutting wood because they are best suited for the job. This advanced version will further simplify operations and increase efficiency.
2. Facilitating Demolition
Demolitions require cutting through concrete, brick, and mortar, a task that requires significant strength, effort, and time. A feasible alternative is to use a reciprocating saw to cut through the structure in some areas to hasten the process.
The saw is powerful and efficient and will reduce the time needed to complete the demolition process. Wear safety gear to prevent the dust from getting in your eyes and nose, and ensure you abide by rules on site.
3. Cutting through Plumbing
Plumbing repairs aren’t always complicated, but some need extra effort. This tool is perfect for when you need to cut the pipes to remove blockages and replace damaged parts with new ones. Reciprocating saws require the user to be strong to handle the machine, but they are a convenient tool for the task.
4. Remove Glue and Adhesives
The best part about this tool is its range and flexibility. By choosing a scraper blade, you can use the saw to remove potent glue and adhesives. The process is beneficial when removing tiles, flooring, carpets, etc.
The blade is flat and uses its shape and momentum to scrape out adhesives keeping the item stuck to the base. The process minimizes damage to the structure and optimizes your efforts.
Our Final Thoughts
I hope the blog adequately provided you with the answer to ‘what can a reciprocating saw cut.’ I genuinely love working with this tool when needed, and I hope this information helps to learn more about it.
