How to Cut Granite with Circular Saw : Get Perfect Cuts Every Time

Last Updated On February 10, 2023

Your inner DIY spirit might stir up for installing new granite flooring, a fireplace exterior, and more. But before you start cutting, make sure you know the ins and outs of the process. And that’s why we thought about how to cut granite with circular saw.

First, clamp the granite to a stable surface, like a sawhorse. Next, mark your cutting line and adjust your circular saw to the appropriate depth. Make sure to use a diamond-tipped blade for a smooth and precise cut. Cut slowly and always wear protective gear and take necessary precautions.

We’ll break down the steps in the easiest and comprehensive way down below. So, let’s jump in.

What Type of Granite You Want to Cut?

When it comes to sawing granite, you need to know which type you’re going to cut as there are tiles and slabs.

Tiles

For granite tiles, you can use a circular saw along with using a diamond or carbide-tipped dry-cut blade. Since the tiles are thin, these blades won’t heat up or bind.

Slabs

If you’re cutting granite slabs, use a wet-cut circular saw. That’s because these saws integrate tubes through which water runs continuously to keep the blade cool while sawing through slab material. 

Ask a friend to use a plastic bottle to spritz water at the cut as you progress with the saw, if you’re unable to get a wet-cut circular saw.

How to Cut Granite with Circular Saw

From here, we’ll elaborately break down the steps for sawing granite. So, comprehend them carefully.

Tools You’ll Need

You must be excited now after grabbing your saw. But make sure that you have all the following tools in hand for optimum safety. 

• Safety Goggles
• Dust Mask
• Ear Plugs
• Ruler or Tape Measure
• Painter’s Tape
• Marker
• C-Clamps
• Stable Work Surface
• Angle Grinder

The Steps to Cut Granite with Circular Saw

1. Wearing Safety Equipment

Make sure to wear the safety items before you start cutting granite to ensure your safety. Goggles will keep your eyes safe from flying debris, ear plugs will muffle the noise of the saw and most importantly, a dust mask will keep you safe from breathing the dust.

2. Set Up Workspace

Once you have your safety gear on, it’s time to set up your work area. It’d be best to place the granite onto a stable surface or a workbench so that it doesn’t wobble while you start cutting. That way you’ll get a smooth and safe sawing experience.

Likewise, use the C-clamps to hold the granite in place. To ensure that the slab stays stable, place the clamps every few feet on the slab. It ensures accurate cuts and simplifies the process.

3. Time for Measurement

Great, now that your work area is all set up, it’s time to get precise with the measurements.

You can use a ruler or tape to mark out exactly where you want to make the cuts on the granite. It’s important to be as accurate as possible because once you start cutting, there’s no going back.

So, take your time and double-check your measurements before you mark the area with a pencil or marker. Thus, you’ll get a clear reference point for where to make the cut, and help you avoid any mistakes. 

4. Place the Painter’s Tape 

Though marking with pencil is enough to get precise cuts. However, adding a strip of painter’s tape to the cutting area will work like a roadmap helping you to keep your cuts more straight.

Take your time for this part to ensure the line is as straight as possible.

5. Start Cutting

You’ll be using a circular saw to make your cuts and it’s important to make sure it’s up to the task. Whether you’re using a wet saw or a dry saw, there’s one thing that’s non-negotiable: the blade.

Make sure to use a continuous-rim diamond blade, anything less strong won’t be able to cut through that granite. So, take a moment to check the blade and make sure it’s up to the task. Once you’re sure it’s ready, you’re all set to start cutting.

6. Wet the Granite 

You better keep the granite wet while cutting because the saw generates intense heat and pressure. 

If you’re lucky enough to have a helper, they can spray water on the granite as you cut. That’s the way your saw won’t overheat, providing you with a smooth, safe cutting experience.

But, if you’re working solo, don’t worry, you can still get the job done. Just make sure to use a wet saw, which will spray water on the granite as you cut.

Precautions

Before cutting, always keep your eyes on the saw. It’s important never to look away while cutting, to ensure a precise cut and avoid any accidents. You can get distracted easily but remember that your safety is the most important thing, so stay focused and always keep your eyes on the saw.

1. Re-Check the Cuts

Now take a moment to check your work. Make sure that the cut you made is up to your standards and meets your expectations. If you’re happy with the cut, you can move on to the next step or finish the job.

But, if you see any small errors, don’t sweat, it’s easy to fix them. Just reapply the tape and make another cut. This way you can ensure that you have a satisfactory result and move forward confidently.

2. Smoothing Out

It’s time to give that edge a polished look which can be done by using an angle grinder with polishing pads.

These pads come in different grit levels, from 50 all the way up to 3000 or more. You can choose whichever you want depending on the level of smoothness and shine you want to achieve.

Not only that, but by using the angle grinder, you’ll be able to create a micro-bevel on the 90-degree cut edge making it look softer and more refined.

FAQs

Can I use a jigsaw to cut granite?

It’s not recommended to use a jigsaw to cut granite as it’s not designed for that purpose. A jigsaw is primarily used for cutting wood and other soft materials, while granite is a hard and dense stone.

What is the recommended cutting speed for granite with a circular saw?

The recommended cutting speed for hard granite with a circular saw is between 25-30 meters per second, while for soft granite it’s between 32-40 meters per second.

How do I make a hole in granite with a circular saw? 

Use a hole saw attachment on a circular saw with a diamond blade to make a hole in the granite.

Conclusion

To sum up, cutting granite with a circular saw may seem daunting at first, but with the right approach and equipment, it can be a relatively simple task. Before starting, make sure your saw is in good working condition and that you have all the necessary safety gear. It’s also important to take your time and be patient while cutting, as rushing can lead to mistakes. With a little practice, you’ll be a pro at “how to cut granite with circular saw” in no time!