An oscillating tool is a powerful tool that runs using battery or main power. It is a multi-tool that oscillates instead of rotating. You can add attachments to it to do all sorts of work.
The side-to-side movement happens fast. It swings twenty thousand times in a minute. For this reason, it’s more of a vibration. You can use it with scrapers and sanding pads, not to mention the oscillating saw attachment.
With the help that we provide, you will increase your productivity and learn a few new tricks. To buy the best oscillating tools, read this review. Here are some great tips that will help you use your oscillating tool like a professional.
Cutting Straight
You should use a straightedge to cut straight. It acts as a guiding tool for the saw blade. However, you don’t want to cut into a straight edge. If you do that, your blade will go off course.
The need for a straight cut is really common when you work with wood. And precision is very difficult without a bit of technology. Straight cutting works better when you move to and fro lightly in repetition with a round blade. So don’t try to dig into the meat of the wood.
What Blade To Use?
You might be asking yourself at times whether to use round blades or straight blades. Well, they have different purposes. A straight blade is for plunge cuts, stabbing into the surface of the wood.
On the other hand, a round blade is good for linear cuts and long cuts. You should make shallow cuts. Don’t try to stab with round blades because it will take you off course or, worse, lead to an accident.
A straight blade is for deep, penetrative cuts where you stab with the blade. The round blade cuts straight. You’ll cut better with round blades if you make shallow cuts. Then, go slightly deeper with every stroke.
You don’t want to wear out the blades, so don’t press too hard while using it. If you do, too much heat will build up, and that is not good for your machine.
Fast Flooring Prep
When you are working on your floor, use a flush-cutting blade. With it, you can cut through door jambs easily. The scraps on the floor will guide your oscillating tool to move straight. You will be able to make clean cuts. Thus, the new flooring will fit perfectly.
Cutting Rusty Faucet Nuts
A lot of times, faucet nuts rust over time. It becomes really difficult to loosen, and your greatest efforts with a basin wrench fail. However, if you use a bi-metal cutting blade, you will get the job done.
You have to angle the blade against the rusty nut and cut. Start slow, then increase the speed. Cut three-quarters of the nut. Next, break the rest of it off with pliers.
Trim Removal Without Damage
If you are removing trim, first, pry the trim out of the way. Do this just a little bit. After that, place the blade into the gap. Next, use the multi-cutting tool to probe and cut through the nails. Now you can use the scrap from the metal sheet to protect the wall.
Cutting Metal With a Bimetal Blade
When you go to a store to get blades, you will see that most are for cutting soft materials, so, if you have metal to cut, make sure that the label on the blade says bimetal.
Grout Removal
You can take out grout in between tiles using the oscillating tool. This job is never easy, but at least, when you do it with an oscillating tool, there is no damage. Also, dust won’t fly up into the air and create a dust cloud.
Blades For Grout Removal
If you want grout removal done, you can get the cheaper carbide blade or the more expensive diamond blade. The carbide blade is for small jobs, but if you have a large task ahead, then get a diamond blade. And as the diamond blade lasts longer, it will save money in the long run.
The blades come in two sizes: 1/16 inches and ⅛ inches. Stop when you start seeing sparks. That’s when you know that the blade has worn out.
Trimming Shims
If you find yourself installing a door, you will have to trim shims. The traditional way to do this is by scoring them with a knife so that you can snap them off. This is not an efficient way to work. But if you use an oscillating tool, that all changes. The task becomes fast and hassle-free.
Toilet Removal
You can cut the old bolts that keep your old toilet in place with an oscillating tool. If the toilet won’t budge, use a scraper blade to cut through the bottom. The job is easy to do and takes little time.
Accessories and Adapters
If you get an oscillating tool adapter, you will get an option of many blades. You need one because the blades from another brand might not fit your oscillating tool. But if you have an adapter, you will have access to a lot of accessories, and there are so many accessories that you can choose from. We know you are going to love an adapter for your oscillating tool.
Conclusion
The oscillating tool quickly swings from side to side. There are many attachments that you can add to the oscillating tool, and each attachment serves a different purpose.
You can complete many tasks with this tool. This includes cutting wood and cutting through rusty nuts. You can also trim shims and remove toilets. Furthermore, the tool is handy if you are flooring.
When you are cutting straight, use a round blade and don’t apply too much pressure. The straight blade, on the other hand, is better for penetrative cuts. Many accessories are compatible with an oscillating tool. You can find them in the market or online. To use them, get an adapter. With it, you will be able to choose from many tools.
