Use Your Angle Grinder Effectively

You might think an angle grinder is only effective at grinding metal. After all, that's what it's made for. However, you can use an angle grinder to do the job of many other power tools, as well. For instance, try using this versatile tool to make careful cuts for a tile backsplash (use a diamond wheel). You'll soon see that there are many more ways to use your angle grinder than just cutting metal. You can also cut pavers, stucco, mortar and tile, remove loose paint and get rid of rust, and cut even steel. Let's take a look at the most effective ways to use your angle grinder.

Angle grinders are found anywhere you can buy power tools. The most popular grinders are four to four and a half inches, and can be purchased for as little as forty dollars. However, a more powerful, five to nine amp motor is likely to be appropriate for most tasks. Look for a model in the seventy to one hundred dollar range for this. Any good angle grinder will be able to hand different accessories and types of wheels, and will include a spindle washer and spindle nut.

Try adding a wire wheel to get rid of flaking paint and rust fast. These attachments cost only fifteen to twenty-five dollars, and make stripping and cleaning tasks much easily. For removing rust and paint from a large, flat area, try using a wire cup brush. Use a wire wheel for corners and crevices. Remember to read the package carefully to find the brush or wheel that'll work best for your needs, and make sure you matched the spindle threads on your grinder. Most have 5/8" threads, but not all do.

With a cutoff wheel, which will cost only about three dollars, you can cut angle iron, rusted bolts, welded fencing and rebar, too. To restore the cutting edge on your shovel or hoe, or do the initial grinding of hatched and axes, as well as lawn mower blades, add a three dollar grinding wheel. Make sure the wheel spins from the body of the blade, out toward the edge, and adjust the angle of the grinder to match the bevel. Stroke the grinder in the direction of the handle, holding it a consistent angle, and make sure you don't overheat the blade. Light pressure will help.

Do you need to remove old mortar? Try using your angle grinder instead of a chisel and hammer. If you have a lot of tuckpointing to do, a grinder is worth it just for this job. Use a fifty dollar diamond tuckpointing wheel to get old mortar out without disturbing your bricks. Make sure to wear a dust mask or respirator, however.

Follow precautions whenever using your angle grinder, like a face shield and gloves, and always unplug an angle grinder to change wheels. Keep a firm, two handed grip on the handle and use the guard when you can. Run new wheels for a minute in a protected area to prevent defects from causing problems. Direct debris downward and keep bystanders clear. These precautions will help you stay safe and use this great power tool effectively.