Without using a circular saw how can I cut for exterior window trim in siding? Is there a smaller tool?
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GiddyupG asked:
I want to install (I think) 1.75″ X 3.5″ boards around the perimeter of the exterior windows, to define and give some trim to paint, and my handi-man left me with three more windows to do.
He was using a circular saw, but I’m not wanting to wield that thing, so is there a smaller cutting tool that can cut through the cedar siding boards (without removing them)? I saw once something on TV that “vibrated” through wood…but anyway, I just don’t want to use my circular saw, I’m not dainty enough with it. Any suggestions? THANKS
Pedro
I want to install (I think) 1.75″ X 3.5″ boards around the perimeter of the exterior windows, to define and give some trim to paint, and my handi-man left me with three more windows to do.
He was using a circular saw, but I’m not wanting to wield that thing, so is there a smaller cutting tool that can cut through the cedar siding boards (without removing them)? I saw once something on TV that “vibrated” through wood…but anyway, I just don’t want to use my circular saw, I’m not dainty enough with it. Any suggestions? THANKS
Pedro
February 21st, 2008 at 8:17 am
Use a saber saw. The circular saw can be used for most of the work, but use the saber saw to finish it.
February 24th, 2008 at 12:46 pm
Back saw in a miter box. It was done for millennia this way.
February 25th, 2008 at 12:37 am
If I am understanding you, you need to cut the existing siding away from around the windows and then put up 2 x 4’s (actual measurements 1.75 x 3.5) around the outside of your windows.
You could use a saber saw, it is also sometimes called a hand held scroll saw. Or even a Saw- Saw which is a recipricating saw but they both have one serious draw back. They don’t set the depth of the blade and can and will cut too deep if you do not take precautions.
What you can do is tack a board on the house and lay the face of the saw on the board and thereby restrict the depth of the cut. The problem with this is that it makes what you are cutting at the end of the cut stroke and will make cutting very difficult.
You don’t need to be dainty. Tack a guide board on your house set the circular saw to the correct depth and hold the saw against the guide - use the right tool for the right job. BUT how about a light weight battery operated circular saw?
When i am cutting away siding I use my Battery operated Ryobie 5 1/4 inch blade circular saw. It is light weight and works well when being used in “awkward” positions.
Sorry if this isn’t what you wanted to hear.
Don’t forget to caulk and properly flash all the pieces in.
February 25th, 2008 at 4:14 am
Talk someone into using the circular saw for you. A reciprocating or sabre saw will only cause you anguish in your endeavor. I have used a roto zip tool in tight places, put is difficult (impossible) to get a nice cut. I am assuming it is a lap siding, you can purchase some trim boards that are not as thick as a 2 X 4 and just nail them right over the siding, apply some caulk and paint and looks basically the same as the rest of your windows.
February 28th, 2008 at 1:37 am
but a cordless saw they are smaller and more manageable. and if you want to save some money take it back to home depot or wall mart or lowes, were ever you bought it and say the torque or battery where not sufficiant.