Buzz
Sharpening your saw blades can save you money over time. apomares / Getty ImagesKey Insights
- Steel-toothed circular saw blades can be sharpened at home with a file, while carbide-tipped blades need professional sharpening because of the material's toughness.
- Sharpening your circular saw blades enhances the quality of their cuts and increases the lifespan of both the blades and the saw motor by lessening the effort required.
- Professional sharpening services can bring blades back to near-new condition, typically costing around 25 to 50 cents per tooth, which is often more economical than frequent replacements.
When your circular saw blade gets dull, it not only results in rougher cuts but also forces the saw's motor to work harder, which can lead to a faster burnout. Sharpening your blades can save you money over time by providing cleaner cuts and reducing the need for frequent replacements of your saw and blades.
You can sharpen steel-toothed circular saw blades on your own with a file. However, carbide-tipped blades require professional sharpening because of the material's hardness and the complexity of the process. Carbide blades cut through both the tips and sides of the teeth, and improper sharpening can damage these edges. A sharpening service will restore your blades to nearly new condition for around 25 to 50 cents per tooth. Consult with a professional about other blade types, as some can't be sharpened, and some may be too inexpensive to justify the cost of sharpening. If you're not re-sharpening them, consider saving these blades for demolition tasks or cutting lumber that may contain hidden nails.
For sharpening saw blades yourself, you can use a hand file, crank sharpener, or automatic sharpener. While automatic sharpeners offer quicker results, they can be harsh on the teeth and may risk overheating or misaligning the angles. Manual filing, though more time-consuming, typically yields better outcomes.
