Because of the varying amounts of diamonds needed for different materials, prices for diamond blades for tile cutting can range anywhere from $20-$80 or more. Depending on how often you use the saw and what type of material you cut, the price for replacement blades can quickly become a serious expense. To maximize the life of your diamond blade, follow these simple steps:
1. Don't force your materials into the blade. When you get the tile (or whatever you're cutting) close enough to the blade, it will almost feel like the blade is pulling it along. If you feel like you are forcing materials into the blade, it will wear faster and not get you're cutting done any faster.
2. Clean the tile saw frequently. Dirty water contains particles that will cause unnecessary wear on the blade. Dirty water also clogs the water pump in a saw. If possible, clean pumps, cutting table rollers, and water trays every time you use the saw.
3. Use slower speeds to make more intricate cuts (this seems like an obvious rule, but I've seen it ignored many times).
4. Don't use your blade to cut porcelain unless its packaging specifically states that it can be used on harder materials like porcelain. Lower cost blades are usually not suited to cut porcelain.
5. Sharpen blades regularly with cutting conditioning sticks. When you sharpen the blade, you are just exposing the underneath layer of sharp diamonds.
6. Be careful not to cut through adhesives or tape. If you do, clean it by cutting through a clean stone or glass.
For more information about tile saw and blade maintenace, check out this great buying guide from ConstructionComplete.
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