Tiles are a great way to upgrade the floors and walls in your home. However, installing tile requires specialized tools to make precise cuts. A tile saw is an essential piece of equipment for any tiling project. The Project Source tile saw is an affordable option that makes tiling projects accessible for DIYers. This guide will provide a detailed overview of Project Source tile saws to help you determine if this model is the right choice for your needs.

What is a Project Source Tile Saw?

A tile saw is a power tool designed specifically for cutting tile materials like ceramic, porcelain, and stone. The Project Source tile saw is a basic model offered by Lowe’s home improvement stores. It features a compact tabletop design with a sliding tray that holds a 7″ diamond blade. The motor powers the spinning blade to make straight cuts or 45° angled cuts in tile.

Project Source tile saws are entry-level models aimed at DIYers and homeowners doing small home renovations. The straight-forward design focuses on user-friendly operation rather than industrial strength. While not made for heavy duty use, a Project Source tile saw can handle most basic tiling tasks.

How Much Does a Project Source Tile Saw Cost?

The Project Source tile saw is one of the most affordable options on the market. The standard price for this model ranges from $150 to $200. This makes it budget-friendly for homeowners compared to professional tile saws that can cost thousands.

The low price point is ideal if you just need a basic saw for a few small tiling projects. However, the value reflects the quality. The Project Source saw lacks advanced features of pricier tile saws. Make sure this inexpensive model can still meet your tiling needs before purchasing.

Where Can I Buy a Project Source Tile Saw?

Since Project Source is a house brand of Lowe’s, their tile saws are sold exclusively through Lowe’s stores and their website Lowes.com. Fortunately, with over 2,000 store locations across North America, Lowe’s is a convenient option for purchasing a Project Source tile saw.

Lowe’s frequently puts this model on sale for $10 to $50 off the list price. Signing up for the MyLowe’s program can help you save even more through promotions and discounts. You can also keep an eye out for special values bundled with bonus accessories.

Online shopping is another simple way to buy a Project Source tile saw. Lowe’s provides free shipping for online orders over $45. While convenient, you’ll need to do some assembly required after delivery.

How Do I Use a Project Source Tile Saw?

Using a Project Source tile saw is a straightforward process. Just follow these basic steps:

1. Set up the saw on a sturdy, level surface and plug it into a standard electrical outlet.
2. Adjust the tile guide to your desired width for straight cuts.
3. Fill the integrated tray reservoir with water to keep the blade wet while cutting.
4. Place the tile against the guide and hold firmly.
5. Turn on the saw and slowly feed the tile against the blade while keeping even pressure.
6. Cut all the way through the tile, then turn off the saw.
7. Carefully remove cut tile and repeat process for additional cuts.

Be sure to read the instruction manual for full details on setup, adjustments, operation, accessories, and safety precautions. With a little practice, you’ll be expertly cutting tiles with the Project Source saw.

What Types of Tiles Can a Project Source Tile Saw Cut?

The Project Source tile saw can cut most common types of tile materials:

• Ceramic – Glazed and unglazed ceramic tiles up to 1/2″ thick.
• Porcelain – Dense porcelain tiles up to 1/2″ thick.
• Stone – Natural stone tiles like marble, granite, and slate up to 1/2″ thick.
• Glass – Glass mosaic tiles.

Thicker tile materials up to 1″ can be cut, but require multiple passes. Make sure to work slowly and allow the blade to cut gradually to avoid overheating.

The Project Source saw may struggle with harder stones like quartzite. The basic motor lacks the power for smooth cuts in extra dense tile. Stick with standard ceramic, porcelain, and natural stone for best results.

Does the Project Source Tile Saw Include a Water Reservoir?

Yes, one advantage of the Project Source tile saw is the built-in tray that holds water for wet cutting. Filling this reservoir keeps the blade continuously cooled and lubricated during cutting. This helps reduce friction, overheating, and blade wear.

The water tray is integrated into the steel tabletop design for mess-free cutting. There is no need for an external bucket or plumbing connections. Simply fill the tray with clean water before starting your tile cuts. Refill as needed for ongoing projects.

What is the Blade Size for the Project Source Tile Saw?

The Project Source tile saw comes equipped with a 7″ diamond blade. This size is suitable for most residential tiling jobs.

The blade diameter determines the depth of cut. A 7” blade can make straight cuts in tile up to 1-1/4″ thick. For diagonal cuts, the maximum thickness is reduced.

Make sure to use only proper diamond-edged tile blades designed for wet cutting. The Project Source saw requires a blade with a 7” diameter and 5/8” arbor or shaft size. Replacement blades are readily available from Lowe’s and hardware stores.

Can the Project Source Tile Saw Make Angled or Beveled Cuts?

The Project Source tile saw allows you to make angled miter cuts up to 45°. This is handy for cutting borders and decorative designs.

To adjust the miter angle, simply loosen the bolt on the swiveling cutting head. Rotate it to the desired angle as indicated on the built-in protractor scale. Then tighten the bolt to lock that angle in place.

This tile saw does not offer the ability to make beveled cuts. However, you can create a manual bevel using tile nippers to grind a sloped edge after cutting. This takes more time and effort compared to a saw with a pivoting bevel feature.

Is the Project Source Tile Saw Suitable for Ceramic and Porcelain Tiles?

The Project Source tile saw works well for cutting basic ceramic and porcelain tiles. Its compact size and water reservoir make it easy to manage these common tile materials.

Ceramic tiles up to 1/2″ thickness can be cleanly cut using a steady feed rate. Denser porcelain tiles may require moving slower through the blade. Use light pressure for the blade to cut through this hard material.

Larger format tiles like 12”x24” can be handled, but require supporting the weight as you feed through the saw. For heavy porcelain tiles, an upgraded tile saw with more power may make the job easier. But for standard sizes, the Project Source saw can achieve quality ceramic and porcelain cuts.

What is the Maximum Tile Size the Project Source Tile Saw Can Handle?

The Project Source tile saw has a 7″ blade diameter and an 8″ throat. This means it can cut tile up to 8″ wide by its maximum thickness of 1/2″ to 1”.

In terms of length, tiles can extend well beyond the cutting table. You’ll just need proper support to feed longer planks through the blade.

The small tray size does limit diagonal cutting capacity. At a 45° bevel, the maximum tile size is reduced to about 5-1/2″ wide.

While not made for oversized tiles, this portable saw can handle most standard tiles like 12”x12” and 16”x16” squares. Larger formats may require scoring multiple passes. Overall, it’s a good solution for small to mid-sized tile cutting jobs.

How Does the Project Source Tile Saw Compare to Other Brands?

Here’s how the Project Source tile saw stacks up against other entry-level models in terms of features and performance:

• Cheaper than brands like DeWalt, Makita, and Chicago Electric.
• Less power and precision versus higher priced saws.
• Plastic housing rather than metal – less durable.
• Smaller work surface area than contractor saws.
• No bevel feature – limited angled cutting abilities.
• Good for occasional DIY use, not heavy professional use.
• Provides standard features like slide tray, protractor, and water reservoir.
• Reliable straight cuts in tile up to 1/2” thickness.

While the Project Source saw cannot compete with premium tile saws, it is very affordably priced. For homeowners doing simple tiling jobs, it offers a basic and budget-friendly alternative to costlier brands and models.

Does the Project Source Tile Saw Come With a Warranty?

Yes, the Project Source tile saw is backed by a 2-year warranty from Lowe’s. This covers defects in materials, parts, and workmanship. Normal wear items like the blade are excluded.

To receive service under warranty, you simply need to provide proof of purchase from Lowe’s showing the purchase date. Make sure to retain your receipt after buying the Project Source tile saw.

Lowe’s will determine whether to repair or replace your saw if an issue arises. You can contact your local store or call the service hotline for assistance with making a warranty claim.

Extended protection plans are also available from Lowe’s to provide up to 3 extra years of coverage beyond the standard warranty term.

Is the Project Source Tile Saw Portable?

Yes, the Project Source tile saw has a lightweight and compact design. The total weight is just 27 pounds. This allows for convenient mobility whether moving between job sites or transporting to a storage area when not in use.

The plastic body helps reduce the overall heft compared to heavier metal models. And the saw runs on standard 120V household power rather than high voltage circuits. No special electrical hookup is required.

To make the saw even more portable, the cutting table can be removed from the stand base. This further reduces the size for storage and transport. Overall, the Project Source model is one of the more portable and maneuverable tile saw options for DIYers.

How Durable Is the Project Source Tile Saw?

The Project Source tile saw uses plastic housing and a lightweight build that compromises on ruggedness for affordability. It is suitable for occasional home use, but lacks the heavy duty construction of professional tile saws.

The saw incorporates a steel cutting table for stability when cutting. But most components utilize plastic rather than metal. Expect standard durability for a tool in this price range, not commercial-grade endurance.

Limit the saw to small or medium tile jobs. Trying to cut thick hard stone or large format tiles frequently can overtax the motor. With proper care and maintenance, the average homeowner can get years of periodic use from a Project Source tile saw. But it cannot compare to premium saws built for daily professional demands.

Are Replacement Parts Available for the Project Source Tile Saw?

Since Project Source is an exclusive Lowe’s brand, replacement parts are only offered through their stores. Many standard consumables and accessories can be found on Lowes.com.

Common replacement items like diamond blades, rim tile carts, blade wrenches, and drain plugs are readily available. You can also find drive belts, carbon brushes, and other parts to keep your saw running. Make sure to search with your exact model number to get the right match.

If you need help locating a particular part, contact customer service for assistance. Lowe’s inventory changes over time, so some items may be discontinued. But in most cases, you can source necessary replacement parts to keep an older Project Source tile saw functioning.

How to Clean and Maintain a Project Source Tile Saw

Regular cleaning and maintenance will help ensure optimal performance and longevity from a Project Source tile saw. Here are some tips:

• Rinse saw dust and debris from tile tray after each use. Change water frequently to avoid clogging.
• Wipe down cutting table and slide tray with a damp cloth. Clean after cutting to avoid staining.
• Remove blade when not in use. Clean with brush and wipe dry to prevent rust.
• Check water level and blade condition before starting new projects. Replace worn blades.
• Inspect moving parts for buildup and lubricate as needed. Apply silicone spray to slide components.
• Check power cord and plug for damage. Replace immediately if wires are exposed or cracked.
• Empty water tray and wipe down all surfaces thoroughly after extended storage periods.

Following the manufacturer’s maintenance guidelines will maximize the lifetime of your Project Source tile saw. Proper cleaning and upkeep will minimize repairs down the road.

Does the Project Source Tile Saw Require Assembly?

The Project Source tile saw comes partially assembled but does require some simple at-home assembly. Instructions and included tools are provided for the user to complete assembly.

Here are the main steps needing assembly:

• Mounting the steel cutting table onto the saw base. This involves installing brackets underneath with supplied hardware.
• Attaching the outer tray rails to the steel tabletop using screws and an Allen wrench.
• Mounting the fence assembly onto the steel table and securing into place.
• Installing the 7” saw blade onto the spindle arbor.

Plan to allot about 30-45 minutes for a first-time user to assemble a new Project Source tile saw based on the manual instructions. The basic hand tools needed are included in the packaging. Review all steps before starting for a smooth assembly process.

Are There Reviews for the Project Source Tile Saw?

Yes, the Project Source tile saw is a popular model sold by Lowe’s for years now. There are numerous customer reviews that provide helpful feedback.

On the Lowe’s website, the saw earns an average rating of 4 out of 5 stars based on over 275 reviews. Many praise its ability to handle small residential tiling projects, especially given the affordable price point. They describe the saw as lightweight and easy to use.

Critical reviews mention issues with plastic parts breaking over time. Others feel the saw lacks power for thick tiles and hard stone. A few mechanical problems were reported as well. Read through detailed customer reviews to make an informed decision before purchasing this tile saw.

Independent review sites like TrustPilot also provide average ratings and first-hand user feedback for the Project Source saw model. These can further help you evaluate the pros and cons of this budget tile saw option.

Is the Project Source Tile Saw Beginner-Friendly?

Overall, yes – the Project Source tile saw is a good beginner-friendly model for DIYers just learning how to cut tile. Benefits for novice users include:

• Low cost allows you to gain experience without a huge investment.
• Compact size and portability make it easy to position.
• Integrated water tray eliminates need for external bucket setup.
• Basic adjustments for angle cuts and tile width.
• Instruction manual and labeled controls simplify setup.
• Designed for light duty homeowner use rather than heavy commercial use.

Beginners should still take time to review operating procedures and safety precautions. Seek guidance from tutorials or experienced tile setters where needed. Work slowly as you hone your cutting skills. But the Project Source saw does offer a practical, affordable, and user-friendly option for DIY tiling novices.

What Safety Precautions Should I Follow While Using a Project Source Tile Saw?

Tile saws require proper safety measures to avoid potential hazards. When using a Project Source tile saw, keep these key precautions in mind:

• Wear eye protection to guard against debris and water exposure. Use safety goggles or a face shield.
• Wear a dust mask to prevent inhaling fine tile particles. A respirator provides even more protection.
• Wear earplugs or protective muffs due to the high noise level.
• Keep hands away from the blade. Never reach across the cutting path.
• Avoid loose clothing and tie back long hair to prevent entanglement.
• Don’t operate the saw after drinking alcohol or when tired. Maintain full focus.
• Support tile sheet to avoid binding and kickback from the spinning blade.
• Unplug saw when doing any adjustments, blade changes, or maintenance.
• Keep children and pets away from the work area to avoid distractions or accidents.

Always put safety first. Carefully following the manufacturer guidelines and instructions will help prevent injury when operating a Project Source tile saw or similar power tool.

Conclusion

From deciding where to buy to proper use and safety, this guide covers everything you need to know about Project Source tile saws. While it lacks advanced features, the affordable price and basic cutting capabilities make it an ideal starter saw for DIYers. With proper care and technique, a Project Source model can tackle most small residential tile projects. Just assess your needs and compare specifications to choose the best tile saw for your upcoming installation.