Primer on Carbide-Tipped Construction Blades
Having worked in and around construction for so long, I am reminded that we constantly need to
educate new employees, purchasers, contractors etc. One of the most used tools we have at
our disposal today is the circular saw. They come in corded and cordless versions and at least 4
different sizes. This handheld tool is most often seen at the job site next to a pile of sawdust and
sweat. The circular saw arrives well before there is any A/C on site, and leaves after the
outdoor formwork is finished.
The variability and versatility of this tool requires that is be used properly. To use properly, you
will need the right blade for each job. In this selection, we look at the general-use blade. This
blade is available on most checkout counters if you have a 7-1/4” circular saw. It has 24 teeth
and sharp carbide teeth. The teeth are not so wide that they labor the motor of the saw, and the
kerf is thin so that cuts can be made fast. The blade will not leave a very smooth cut, in other
words you would not want to start sanding and the paint the cut edge. These are not for any
final cuts that would appear in the final product. The general construction type blade is for all
the background work, building the bones. This is a blade primarily for crosscuts, and plywood. It
can rip lumber although slower that a ripping saw, which can wear on the saw itself.
If you have a different size blade, you can use the following table to determine the number of
teeth the blade should have for the same purpose. You should have no fewer than the number
of teeth listed.
4-1/2” Diameter Min teeth 16 8-1/4” Diameter Min teeth 28
5-1/2” Diameter Min teeth 18 10” Diameter Min teeth 28
6-1/2” Diameter Min teeth 22 12” Diameter Min teeth 32
7-1/4” Diameter Min teeth 24 14” Diameter Min teeth 40
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