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Ask WWGOA » 6" or 8" Dado Head
6" or 8" Dado Head
Posted: October 15, 2008
"I have a Dewalt table saw and after watching your video I want to try dado blades. However, I'm stumped. They seem to have only 6" or 8" dado blades and my saw has 10" blades. Dados are new to me, can you offer a suggestion on which size would be best? Thank you and I loved the video. I really got some good tips, even the 1.6 to 1 was a GREAT tip. Thank for any help you can give."
Submitted by: baxtercl
WWGOA Editor Response
The answer is that 10" table saws use 6" or 8" dado heads. So, you won't find a 10" dado head in the marketplace.
Most woodworkers get along fine with a 6" dado head. It's a little easier for your saw to push through the wood than an 8", less expensive to sharpen, and provides plenty of depth of cut.
If you want to know how deep each size of dado will cut, just cut two discs from cardboard; one 6" diameter and one 8". Put a hole in the center and slide the disc on to your saw arbor. Raise the arbor to its maximum height and measure from the table to the top of the disc. A 6" dado head, on most saws, will project about 1" or more above the table. In cabinet and furniture work, you'll generally only be using the dado 1/4" to 1/2" above the table.
Thank you for your question.
George Vondriska
Managing Editor
Got a woodworking question you need answered? Email us at editor@wwgoa.com or post your question on the Forums board for help from fellow WWGOA members.
3 Comments
Posted November 06, 2008 // 12:55 PM a 6 in dado will cut about 1" at maximum depth. a 2x4 is 1.5 in wide. you usually do not want to take out more that half the width or you will lose strength. that would be 3/4 inches. save the money and buy the 6 inch.
Posted December 02, 2009 // 10:30 PM I have a 16 x 24 shop. I need to insulate the ceiling which has a vaulted ceiling. Would it be better to use an encapulated type of insulation or a kraft face stile? I was worried about condensation dripping on the equipment. The shop has central heat and air. Please give me your ideas on this... Thanks , John
Posted January 24, 2010 // 8:43 PM Regarding insulation.... First, be sure to check local building codes and their requirements for your area and your shop. I've seen people put rigid foam insulation in between their rafters, but cutting to get a good fit between rafters can be tough. Kraft faced insulation is pretty easy to install, and provides a good R value. Sprayed foam is another option, and provides good R value, but can be expensive. Sprayed foam will need to be professionally installed. To avoid condensation issues you need to have a vapor barrier on the heated side of the insulation, and have air flow above it. G