How to Cut PVC with a Band Saw

A band saw has a thin, long blade with a one-sided cutting edge. The saw's name comes from the blade rather than the saw itself. The saw has guides enabling it to steadily make precise cuts. PVC is a type of plastic piping commonly used for drains and vents both inside and outside the home. New and replacement piping is usually made from PVC rather than copper, which generally costs more and has a shorter lifespan. You can use your band saw to quickly and accurately cut PVC.

• 1

  Measure and mark the pipe for cutting with a professional crayon or marker. Use a straightedge to extend marks on the pipe.

• 2

  Install a skip tooth blade or hook blade on the band saw. Read the manufacturer's specifications to ensure that the blade is capable of cutting PVC. A skip tooth blade has a large space between teeth, which helps avoid clogs on the blade. A hook blade has teeth that curve over slightly to help grip the material and pull it through the blade. Both blades are appropriate for cutting plastics.

• 3

  Place the PVC pipe on the band saw surface, up against the guide wheel, and turn the band saw on.

• 4

  Guide the PVC pipe toward the blade and allow the saw to cut through the PVC slowly. Do not force the pipe along because you will break the blade, which can cause serious injury.

• 5

  Turn the band saw off and remove the pipe from the saw's surface.

• 6

  Sand the ends of the pipe with fine-grit sandpaper or a sanding cloth to remove rough edges and burrs.