I have a Corian counter top. I purchased a stainless steel slide-in range. Because the range is wider in the front, it will not slide all the way into the counter top opening. I need to cut notches in the counter top on either side of the opening about 1/2 inch wide by 2 inches deep. Can I do this using a circular saw with a carbide tip blade? Any tips on the process?

Put down duct tape around the area where you will be cutting. This will avoid scratches from the saw sole plate. You can also use a jig saw since you can't really make a notch with a circular saw.

Thanks for the duct tape idea. What I meant to ask is, will the carbide tip circular saw blade adequately cut through Corian? I was planning to initially make the cuts with the circular saw, then cut the remaining material (that the circular saw blade cannot reach) with a jig saw. That way I will have a nice, clean cut where it is visible at the top & front after the range is installed. I have a hard time getting a straight, clean cut with a jig saw.

I hear you regarding the jig saw, they like to go where they want. Yes carbide is great but even a good steel blade will cut Corian, just will dull quicker. Jig saw blades have an undulation in th teeth, kind of a wavy set of teeth. You could try using a reciprocating saw with a spped control.

I thought of the reciprocating saw too, but you wouldn't be able to use a fence to get a straight cut.

If you have a router it will make the cut you need using a straight bit.

Chuck

That would be ideal, but my router is on the blink...

If using a jig saw buy a wide blade for it. Will hold the line better. Also hot glue apiece of 1X2 to corian as a guide. After u make the cut use a soap stone to ease the sharp cut edge. The duct tape can be put on after u glue the 1 by. For a cut as short as u have to make, the jig saw with guide should work fine.

Good luck
Chuck

Thanks Chuck.

Hi gbgscw

Glad to be of help. Let us know how it turns out

Thanks
Chuck

The corner of the notch should not be left square. This be a place for a crack to start. You should always raidus thi insid corners.

I am sure that you have done this job already. But for others you should drill a 1/2" hole where you want the corner to be then cut to the hole to make a proper installation.

Also, the saw marks should also be sanded out.

I hope this helps.
Ken

Thanks Ken