If you are framing a large house, putting up a roof, or using old-school ceiling joists, then chances are pretty big that you are using some 8×8 timbers. Eight-by-eight timbers are large pieces of wood that come in at roughly 8” x 8”, therefore making them square and quite thick. Although it is just wood, due to the size, these timbers can be difficult to cut, but not impossible.
Today, we want to take a look at the six best ways to cut this material.
What Makes Cutting 8×8 Timbers Challenging?
The biggest challenge that you face when trying to cut 8×8 timbers compared to, let’s say, cutting 6×6 posts, is quite simply that they are large. The problem is that the vast majority of saws out there simply won’t be able to cut a full 8” in a single sweep.
Sure, there are some types of saws out there that may have blades long enough to cut through these timbers in a single pass, but most just can’t do that. This means that you either need to find a saw that is large enough to do the job in one cut, or you will need to keep rotating the timber to make the cut from all four sides so that the individual cuts meet in the middle and separate the timber.
Now, when you have to rotate the timber and make several smaller cuts, the issue is lining them up properly. If a cut on one side is not perfectly lined up with the cut on the other side, then they won’t meet in the middle, and you’ll end up with a super uneven edge.
How to Cut 8×8 Timbers: 6 Best Ways
What we want to do right now is take a closer look at the six best ways to cut 8×8 timbers with minimal effort required.
1. Using a Chainsaw
One of the best ways to cut through an 8×8 timber is by using a chainsaw. These tools are designed specifically for cutting down and cutting apart large trees. Some chainsaws have blades that are several feet in length.
Realistically, even a small chainsaw with a 1’ blade should be able to cut through an 8×8 timber without a problem.
This is certainly going to be the fastest way to do it, although these tools are dangerous, so you will need to exercise caution. Also, keep in mind that a chainsaw certainly won’t produce a very clean cut, so you’ll definitely need to do some sanding afterward.
2. Using a Circular Saw
Another good way to cut an 8×8 timber is by using a circular saw. Now, most circular saws can cut as deep as 2-1/2”, which means that no, a circular saw will not be able to get through these timbers in a single cut.
You will need to make cuts as deep as the circular saw can go from all four sides of the timber. Then, you will likely also need to use something like a handsaw to cut the center apart, as the circular saw will not be able to reach the center of the timber.
The upside here however is that a circular saw, as long as you line up the cuts properly, will result in a clean cut.
3. Using a Miter Saw
The miter saw is another option that you have at your disposal here, and it will work fairly well as long as you have a 12” blade. This tool with a 12” blade will be able to cut through an 8×8 timber in two passes, unlike a regular circular saw, which will require four passes and the center to be cut.
A 12” miter saw has enough cutting capacity to almost make it through an 8×8 timber. It should be able to cut well over 5” into it.
Therefore, once you make the first cut, just flip it over then cut from the other side. Just make sure to line everything up properly so you get an even edge. The good thing about using a miter saw is that you can also make bevel and miter cuts if you need to.
4. Using a Table Saw
The next option you have at your disposal is a table saw. This tool is a good choice if you have many cuts that you need to repeat, as you can set the blade depth, fence, and gauges as needed, therefore allowing you to repeat the same cut over and over again with great accuracy.
A table saw is also a good idea for cutting timbers because that table gives you something to support the timber with, so you don’t have to hold it. Just remember that this saw isn’t going to be able to cut the full 8” in one pass, so you will need to flip the timber over and make a second cut from the other side.
5. Using a Reciprocating Saw
If you don’t really need a super smooth cut, and you just want this process to be quick and easy, then using a reciprocating saw with a 10” or 12” will work just fine. Now, the blades aren’t always too rigid, so you don’t want to apply too much pressure, or you might bend the blade.
Moreover, keep in mind that you definitely won’t get a smooth cut, so you’ll need to do some sanding afterward. Generally speaking, reciprocating saws are better for demolition than they are for construction.
6. Using a Hand Saw
The final option at your disposal is to use a hand saw, something like a long bow saw. Yes, this is going to take time and require some serious muscle, but it does work.
What Is the Best Way to Cut an 8×8 Timber Cleanly?
If you need to make a very clean cut that you don’t need to sand afterward, then using a circular saw or table saw is best. Yes, reciprocating and chainsaws will be much faster, but they can also cause a good bit of damage to the wood if not used properly.
Mistakes to Avoid, Tips & Tricks
Let’s quickly go over some tricks to help make this process as easy and fast as possible for you:
- Always have the saw running at full speed before you make contact with the wood
- Never turn the blade off if it is still making contact with the wood
- Always wear proper eye protection when sawing wood with any power tool
- The condition of your blade is going to make a difference here
Summary
Although cutting an 8×8 timber is not the easiest task in the world, it is doable if you use the right tool.