3 Best Table Saw Waxes
For any table saw, regardless of the top surface material, you’ll want to use a paste finishing wax that is free of any silicone. We recommend using:
- John’s Floor Paste Wax
- Minwax Paste Finishing Wax
- Bostik GlideCote Table & Tool Surface Sealant (aerosol lubricant)
Any of the above options will work with any table saw top whether cast iron, steel, melamine, plastic composite, or other material. The above waxes can also be used for jointers, planers, belt sanders, and other surfaces where wood will be running over the top of them.
How to wax your table saw
Start by disconnecting the saw’s power source. Unplug it from the wall and fully lower the blade.
Then clean all sawdust off the surface of the table saw. It’s helpful to use an air compressor to blow all of the sawdust out of any tight spots. Be sure to clean out the miter slots and anywhere around the fence or throat plate.
Clean the table top with isopropyl alcohol or soap and water to remove any residues, glue, or dirt build up. If using soap and water, keep a clean microfiber towel nearby so you can quickly wipe the surface dry. For any cast iron, steel, or other metal tops, you’ll want to keep the surface as dry as possible. Do the same with the throat plate and the face of the fence.
If your table saw has any rust on the surface, or rust has developed from moisture on the surface, you’ll want to take a super fine grit sandpaper to remove the rust. Something in the 500-600 range will work for light rust. For heavier rust, you may want to use a rust-removing gel and a lower grit sandpaper.
With the surface clean, using your wax of choice, place a thin layer of wax on the entire surface. If using a paste wax, use a cotton cloth or microfiber towel to rub small amounts of the paste wax in a circular motion across the surface of the saw. If using an aerosol spray, work one section at a time by spraying a light coat and then rubbing in a circular motion with a microfiber towel. Don’t forget to apply wax to the face of the fence and throat plate too.
Allow the first coat of wax to dry for about 30 to 45 minutes, then apply a second or third coat if desired. The wax may take longer or shorter to cure depending on the temperature and humidity.
4 reasons to wax your table saw
Wax helps the work piece move easier
Wax reduces friction, which in turn, makes it easier for you to move any material across the surface of the saw. In theory, this also reduces the amount of effort required push the workpiece into the spinning blade, thus making it somewhat safer.
It’s analogous to a sharp knife being safe than a dull knife. When less effort is required to make a cut, there’s a lesser likelihood of injury because less energy is being forced in the cutting action.
Wax protects the table saw surface
Your table saw probably lives in the garage, or a dedicated workshop if you’re lucky. Most garages and workshops do not have the climate control of your living room and thus the table saw and all of your other tools are subject to the changes in temperature and the humidity fluctuations. These changes in environment can wreak havoc on your table saw’s surface if not properly protected.
For jobsite and compact saws you have nothing to worry about if the surface is a composite material. However, if you have a cabinet saw that has a cast iron, steel, or other metal top, this is something to want to give attention to. The surface of these saws can oxidize and rust if not properly cared for. A layer or two of wax helps to seal the surface, preventing moisture and other contaminants from getting into the porous material.
Wax makes it easier to clean the table saw
Similar to a freshly waxed car, a freshly waxed table saw is easier to clean. Look at a freshly waxed car and you’ll notice that the wax makes the surface hydrophobic - that is, the water just beads right off and nothing sticks to it. It’s the same for your saw.
Sawdust and other foreign material have a tough time adhering to the surface because of how slick it becomes. With less friction, the ability of dirt, dust, and grime to stick to the surface is greatly diminished.
Wax aids in preventing the build-up of gunk
As a result of the slick surface a layer of wax creates, it’s incredibly difficult for general shop gunk to accumulate. The miscellaneous glue splatter, small spots of resin on wood, adhesives, and other material will have a more difficult time in staying on the surface of the saw for long.
What kind of wax to use on my table saw?
Paste wax is the most widely accepted and used wax to protect a table saw. Second to paste wax is Bostik’s GlideCote Table & Tool Surface Sealant. While these are the preferred options of almost all woodworkers, any wax that doesn’t contain silicone will likely be an okay option.
Can I use car wax on my table saw?
No, you cannot use car wax on a table saw or other power tools. Car wax typically contains silicone which can damage some finishes on wood and other material. Stick to a paste wax or silicone free wax for your table saw or other power tools.