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Should the fence on a table saw be perfectly square

Mark Stevens

May 13, 2018

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When it comes to operating a table saw, there is an ongoing debate about whether or not the fence should be perfectly square. Some woodworkers argue that having a perfectly square fence is essential for achieving accurate and precise cuts. Others, however, believe that a slightly angled or skewed fence can actually be beneficial in certain situations.

Those who advocate for a perfectly square fence argue that it provides the most reliable and consistent results. They believe that any deviation from a 90-degree angle can lead to inaccurate cuts and can compromise the quality of the finished product. In their view, a square fence is the foundation for achieving precise measurements and ensuring that the saw cuts straight and true.

On the other hand, some woodworkers argue that a slightly angled or skewed fence can be advantageous in certain woodworking techniques. They believe that a small angle or tilt can compensate for the natural drift or bias that may occur during the cutting process. They argue that this can result in cleaner and more precise cuts, especially when working with certain types of wood or when making intricate or delicate cuts.

In conclusion, whether the fence on a table saw should be perfectly square or not depends on the individual woodworker’s preferences and the specific project at hand. While a perfectly square fence may provide a more solid foundation for achieving accurate cuts in general, there may be situations where a slight angle or skew can be advantageous. Ultimately, it is important for woodworkers to experiment and find the setup that works best for their particular needs and desired outcomes.

Should the table saw fence be perfectly square?

The question of whether the table saw fence should be perfectly square is a topic of debate among woodworkers. While some argue that it is essential for precise and accurate cuts, others believe that it is not necessary for all woodworking projects.

Having a perfectly square fence means that it is perfectly perpendicular to the tabletop, ensuring that the pieces being cut are square and accurate. This can be especially important when creating joinery or working with intricate designs that require precise measurements.

However, there are instances where having a square fence may not be as critical. For example, when making rough cuts or when working with materials that are not perfectly square themselves, such as reclaimed wood. In these cases, having a slightly angled or off-square fence can actually be beneficial.

Benefits of a perfectly square fence:

Considerations for a non-square fence:

In conclusion, whether the table saw fence should be perfectly square or not depends on the specific woodworking project and personal preference. Woodworkers who require precision and accuracy may prefer a perfectly square fence, while others may find that a non-square fence suits their needs better. Ultimately, it is important to consider the type of cuts being made and choose the appropriate fence alignment accordingly.

Importance of Table Saw Fence

A table saw fence is an essential accessory for accurate and safe woodworking. It serves as a guide to ensure precise cuts and helps maintain the squareness of the workpiece.

Here are some important reasons why having a perfectly square table saw fence is crucial:

In conclusion, a perfectly square table saw fence is essential for accuracy, safety, repeatability, and professional-quality results. It enhances your woodworking capabilities and ensures a smooth and efficient workflow. Invest time in aligning and maintaining your fence to make the most out of your table saw and achieve excellent woodworking outcomes.

Effects of inaccurate table saw fence alignment

Inaccurate table saw fence alignment can have significant consequences on the quality and safety of woodworking projects. When the fence is not perfectly square to the table, several issues can arise.

1. Poor accuracy

One of the primary effects of an inaccurate table saw fence alignment is poor accuracy in making cuts. When the fence is not square, it can lead to inconsistent and uneven cuts. This can result in gaps, uneven joints, and misaligned pieces when working on woodworking projects. Achieving precise measurements and angles becomes difficult, which can compromise the overall quality of the project.

2. Safety risks

An improperly aligned table saw fence can also pose safety risks. When the fence is not square, it may cause the workpiece to bind or kickback during cutting. This can result in accidents, such as the workpiece being thrown back at the operator or the blade binding and causing dangerous kickback. A square fence helps to ensure that the workpiece stays in place and reduces the likelihood of accidents.

Additionally, an inaccurate fence alignment can lead to the workpiece not being fully supported during the cut. This can cause the material to twist, rotate, or shift unexpectedly, creating a hazardous situation. A perfectly square fence provides better support, stability, and control during the cutting process.

3. Difficulty in crosscutting

An out-of-square fence can make crosscutting more difficult and less precise. Crosscutting requires the fence to be parallel to the blade in order to achieve accurate and straight cuts. When the fence is not square, it becomes challenging to maintain the desired angles and dimensions during crosscutting. This can lead to inaccurate cuts and compromised project outcomes.

Overall, having a table saw fence that is perfectly square is crucial for achieving accurate cuts, ensuring safety, and maintaining overall project quality. Regularly checking and adjusting the fence alignment can help mitigate these effects and enable woodworkers to work with precision and confidence.

Benefits of having a perfectly square table saw fence

A table saw is a versatile and essential tool in woodworking, and having a perfectly square fence is crucial for ensuring accurate and precise cuts. The table saw fence serves as a guide for the workpiece and helps maintain consistency throughout the cutting process. Here are some benefits of having a perfectly square table saw fence:

1. Accurate and precise cuts

A perfectly square fence ensures that the workpiece is held in a straight line while being cut. This accuracy is essential for achieving clean and precise cuts, especially when working on intricate projects or joinery. With a square fence, you can rely on consistent and accurate measurements, resulting in high-quality finished products.

2. Increased safety

A square table saw fence adds an extra layer of safety by preventing kickback and reducing the risk of accidents. When the fence is not square, it can cause the workpiece to bind against the blade, leading to dangerous kickbacks. A perfectly square fence keeps the workpiece aligned with the blade, minimizing the chances of kickbacks and ensuring a safer working environment.

Additionally, a square fence enables you to maintain proper blade clearance, reducing the likelihood of accidental contact with the blade while cutting. This further enhances safety during operation.

3. Time-saving and efficient

Using a table saw with a perfectly square fence eliminates the need for constant adjustments and measurements. A square fence allows for quick and easy set up, saving valuable time during the woodworking process. With accurate measurements and consistent cuts, you can work more efficiently, increasing productivity in your projects.

Furthermore, a square fence enables repeatable cuts, making it easier to create multiple identical pieces. This is especially beneficial when working on projects that require precision and consistency, such as furniture construction or cabinet making.

In conclusion, having a perfectly square table saw fence is essential for achieving accurate, safe, and efficient cuts. It provides consistency in measurement, reduces the risk of accidents, and saves time during woodworking projects. Investing time and effort into ensuring the squareness of your table saw fence will prove to be beneficial in the long run, improving the quality of your work and enhancing your overall woodworking experience.

Ways to Ensure Perfect Squareness of the Table Saw Fence

The squareness of the fence on a table saw is crucial for accurate and precise cuts. A perfectly square fence ensures that the workpiece remains parallel to the blade, minimizing the risk of kickback and producing clean, straight cuts. Here are some ways to ensure the perfect squareness of your table saw fence:

1. Measure and Adjust

Start by measuring the distance between the front and back edges of the fence at both ends. Use a reliable square or a precision measuring tool to check if the fence is square to the blade. If it’s not square, make adjustments to bring it into perfect squareness. Many table saws have adjustment screws or mechanisms that allow you to fine-tune the alignment.

2. Use a Dial Indicator

A dial indicator is a handy tool that can help you accurately measure the squareness of the fence. Attach the dial indicator to the miter gauge slot or any other reference point on your table saw. Move the fence against the dial indicator and observe the readings. If the readings are consistent across the length of the fence, it’s square. If not, make the necessary adjustments.

Note: Remember to consult your table saw’s user manual for specific instructions on adjusting the fence for squareness, as different models may have different mechanisms.

Ensuring the perfect squareness of the table saw fence is essential for achieving high-quality woodworking results. By following the above-mentioned methods and regularly checking the squareness, you’ll be able to make precise cuts and enhance your woodworking experience.