Recommended Circular Saw for Framing and Roof Decking
If you’re ready to build a deck or repair an existing deck you’ll need a great circular saw or table saw to complete the project. Purchasing a circular saw and using saw horses can save you money over purchasing a table saw. The circular saw is an essential part of decking. You’ll need it for cutting roof decking or trim boards. These saws allow for straight lines and clean cuts. Make sure to set blade to the appropriate depth and angle. Before you begin your roofing project make sure to find the right circular saw to make the process as smooth as possible.
Circular saws are a vital tool for any decking project, and selecting the right one can be challenging. Our goal is to help you find the best circular saw for your decking project by providing in-depth analysis, ratings, and reviews of the top circular saws available in 2023.
Our research has led us to identify the following circular saws as the best for decking:
| Circular Saw | Blade Size | Motor Power | Bevel Capacity | Weight | Warranty |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1. DeWalt DWE575SB | 7 1/4 inches | 15 amps | 57 degrees | 8.8 lbs | 3 years |
| 2. SKILSAW SPT77WML-01 | 7 1/4 inches | 15 amps | 53 degrees | 11.6 lbs | 1 year |
| 3. Makita 5007MGA | 7 1/4 inches | 15 amps | 56 degrees | 10.6 lbs | 1 year |
| 4. Bosch CS5 | 7 1/4 inches | 15 amps | 56 degrees | 10 lbs | 1 year |
| 5. Hitachi C7SB2 | 7 1/4 inches | 15 amps | 55 degrees | 10.1 lbs | 5 years |
We will go into detail on each of these saws and highlight their features, pros, and cons.
1. DeWalt DWE575SB Circular Saw
The DeWalt DWE575SB Circular Saw is a powerful and versatile tool that is perfect for both professional contractors and DIY enthusiasts. It has a 7-1/4-inch blade that can easily cut through 2-9/16-inch thick materials, making it ideal for decking projects.
One of the standout features of the DeWalt DWE575SB Circular Saw is its lightweight design. At just 8.8 pounds, it is one of the lightest circular saws on the market, which makes it easy to maneuver and use for extended periods.
Other features of this saw include:
- 15-amp motor that delivers 5,100 RPM
- Electric brake that stops the blade quickly
- Bevel capacity of 57 degrees with stops at 22.5 and 45 degrees
- Integrated dust blower that clears the line of cut
Pros:
- Lightweight and easy to use
- High-powered motor
- Electric brake for safety
- Bevel capacity for angled cuts
- Integrated dust blower
Cons:
- A bit pricey compared to other circular saws
- May not be suitable for heavy-duty cutting
2. SKILSAW SPT77WML-01 Circular Saw
The SKILSAW SPT77WML-01 Circular Saw is another excellent option for decking projects. It has a 7-1/4-inch blade that can easily cut through 2-3/8-inch thick materials, making it suitable for most decking materials.
One of the standout features of the SKILSAW SPT77WML-01 Circular Saw is its magnesium construction, which makes it durable and lightweight. It weighs just 11.5 pounds, which makes it easy to use for extended periods.
Other features of this saw include:
- 15-amp motor that delivers 5,300 RPM
- Dual-field motor that keeps the motor cool
- Bevel capacity of 53 degrees with positive stops at 0 and 45 degrees
- Anti-snag lower guard that allows for smooth operation
Pros:
- Lightweight and durable construction
- High-powered motor
- Dual-field motor for cooling
- Bevel capacity for angled cuts
- Anti-snag lower guard
Cons:
- The price point may be a bit high for some users
- May not be suitable for heavy-duty cutting
3. Makita 5007MGA Circular Saw
The Makita 5007MGA Circular Saw is a reliable and powerful tool that is ideal for decking projects. It has a 7-1/4-inch blade that can easily cut through 2-1/2-inch thick materials, making it suitable for most decking materials.
One of the standout features of the Makita 5007MGA Circular Saw is its high torque motor that delivers up to 5,800 RPM. This ensures fast and smooth cuts, even through tough materials.
Other features of this saw include:
- Electric brake that stops the blade quickly
- Bevel capacity of 56 degrees with positive stops at 22.5 and 45 degrees
- LED lights that illuminate the work area
- Rubberized handles for a comfortable grip
Pros:
- High-powered motor for fast and smooth cuts
- Electric brake for safety
- Bevel capacity for angled cuts
- LED lights for visibility
- Comfortable grip
Cons:
- A bit heavier than other circular saws at 10.1 pounds
- Price may be a bit steep for some users
4. Bosch CS5 Circular Saw
The Bosch CS5 Circular Saw is a versatile and powerful tool that is perfect for decking projects. It has a 7-1/4-inch blade that can easily cut through 2-7/16-inch thick materials, making it ideal for most decking materials.
One of the standout features of the Bosch CS5 Circular Saw is its left blade design, which provides users with a clear view of the cut line for accurate cuts. It also has a powerful 15-amp motor that delivers up to 6,200 RPM for fast and smooth cuts.
Other features of this saw include:
- Bevel capacity of 56 degrees with positive stops at 22.5 and 45 degrees
- Anti-snag lower guard that allows for smooth operation
- Soft grip handles for comfort
- Dust blower that clears the line of cut
Pros:
- Left blade design for clear view of cut line
- High-powered motor for fast and smooth cuts
- Bevel capacity for angled cuts
- Anti-snag lower guard
- Soft grip handles for comfort
Cons:
- A bit heavier than other circular saws at 10.3 pounds
- Price may be a bit high for some users
5. Hitachi C7SB2 Circular Saw
The Hitachi C7SB2 Circular Saw is a reliable and powerful tool that is ideal for decking projects. It has a 7-1/4-inch blade that can easily cut through 2-7/16-inch thick materials, making it suitable for most decking materials.
One of the standout features of the Hitachi C7SB2 Circular Saw is its powerful 15-amp motor that delivers up to 5,800 RPM. It also has a unique dust blower system that clears the line of cut for increased accuracy.
Other features of this saw include:
- Bevel capacity of 55 degrees with positive stops at 22.5 and 45 degrees
- Soft grip handles for comfort
- Non-slip trigger for safety
- Carbon brush access for easy maintenance
Pros:
- High-powered motor for fast and smooth cuts
- Bevel capacity for angled cuts
- Unique dust blower system
- Soft grip handles for comfort
- Non-slip trigger for safety
Cons:
- A bit heavier than other circular saws at 10.1 pounds
- Price may be a bit steep for some users
In conclusion, selecting the right circular saw for your decking project is crucial to ensuring that the job is done efficiently and effectively. Our top five picks for the best circular saws for decking projects are the DeWalt DWE575SB, the SKILSAW SPT77WML-01, the Makita 5007MGA, the Bosch CS5, and the Hitachi C7SB2.
Each of these saws has its own unique features and benefits, but they all have the power and versatility needed to make quick work of decking materials. When selecting a circular saw, it’s important to consider factors such as blade size, motor power, bevel capacity, and comfort features like handles and grips.
Whether you’re a professional contractor or a DIY enthusiast, investing in a quality circular saw is a smart decision that will save you time and effort on your decking projects. By using our recommendations and doing your own research, you can find the perfect circular saw to meet your needs and help you achieve professional results.
FAQs
Q: What blade size should I look for in a circular saw for decking? A: We recommend a blade size of at least 7 1/4 inches for cutting through thick decking materials.
Q: How important is motor power when choosing a circular saw for decking? A: Motor power is crucial for cutting through dense decking materials like hardwood. Look for a saw with a motor power of at least 15 amps.
Q: Can I use a cordless circular saw for decking projects? A: While cordless circular saws are convenient for their portability, they may not have the power and runtime needed for cutting through thick decking materials. It’s best to use a corded saw for decking projects.
Q: What bevel capacity should I look for in a circular saw for decking? A: A bevel capacity of 45 degrees is sufficient for most decking projects, but some saws have a bevel capacity of up to 56 degrees for more precise angled cuts.
Q: Are there any safety features to look for in a circular saw for decking? A: Look for a saw with safety features like an electric brake, a blade guard, and a safety switch to prevent accidental injury.
Q: What is the warranty period for most circular saws for decking? A: Most circular saws come with a warranty period of one to three years, but some manufacturers may offer longer warranties for their products.
Q: How do I maintain my circular saw for optimal performance? A: Regularly clean the blade and saw body, keep the blade sharp, and check for any loose parts or damage. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for proper maintenance and storage.
