In this review, we’ll look at the Sentinel 7-inch tabletop-style tile saw to help you determine if it’s the right saw for your project. While this type of saw has some significant drawbacks, it also has some excellent features that set it apart from other tabletop models. Ultimately, whether or not the Sentinel saw is right for you will depend on your specific needs.
You can also watch the whole review of the Sentinal Tile Saw here.
Price
At $174, the Sentinel tile saw is on the pricier side for a tabletop model. However, it’s still a more affordable alternative to other professional-grade freestanding tile saws. And it is one of the most well-built tabletop tile saws you can buy.
Specifications
Here are the key specs:
- Blade Size: 7 inches
- Motor Power: 6.5 amp motor
- Horsepower: 0.75 HP
- Weight: 34 lbs
- RPM: 3450
Materials: Cuts ceramic tile, porcelain, and natural stone
Build Quality
The tile saw has a sturdy plastic body with a stainless steel deck or cutting table. The table has routered channels to allow water to escape and channels on the outer edge that slope towards the right-hand side, allowing water to flow back into the reservoir. The casing that houses the reservoir and motor is attached to the deck, which is connected to the frame that sits on rubber feet, making it very sturdy and reducing vibrations. The saw can be pushed hard without moving, allowing for precise cuts. Unlike cheaper tile saws with poor-quality plastic fences, it also has a sturdy aluminum fence. The fence is perfect for making repetitive cuts, as you can set it up to make consistent cuts without worrying about it shifting over time.
Features
- Adjustable Deck: The deck can angle up, allowing for miter cuts at 45 degrees or 22.5 degrees, but only for inside miters.
- Fence and Ruler: The sturdy aluminum fence locks into place, and the ruler on the front helps align it.
- Miter Gauge: Slides on the fence for cutting at various angles.
- Deck Extensions: Extensions on the left and right sides extend the deck by seven inches on either side of the blade.
- Blade Guard: Functions as a splash guard.
- Portability: Carrying handles on either side and a cord and blade tool holder on the back.
Performance and Usability
This saw needs water to cool the blade and keep down dust while cutting. So, to fill the water reservoir, look for the removable plate on the right-hand side of the cutting deck, which also serves as the table’s mitering side. The reservoir is underneath, with a plug and markings indicating the minimum and maximum water levels. The plug also functions as an overflow outlet if the reservoir is overfilled.
When changing the blade, locate the two wrenches at the back of the saw. Use one to hold the arbor of the saw while you use another wrench to remove the nut that holds the blade in place. The blade sits in a channel that prevents water from splashing up, so it takes some wiggling to get the blade in and out.
After installing the blade and filling the reservoir with water, replace the plate and cut either freehand or use the fence to guide the cut. To avoid chipping or blowout at the end of the tile when cutting, make a shallow cut first on one end, then flip the tile around and complete the cut.
When making miter cuts, raise the removable plate and extend the feet under it to cut at a 45 or 22 1/2-degree angle, but note that this may scratch the tile, so I would not recommend making miter cuts on this type of saw.
Maintenance Tips
To clean the saw, wipe it down with a sponge, channeling water back into the reservoir. Drain the reservoir and remove debris regularly. Remember, tiling is a messy job, and some dust and grime buildup is inevitable.
Pros of the Sentinel 7-inch Tabletop Tile Saw
- Affordable Price: Available at a reasonable price of under $200, making it an excellent option for those looking for a small tile saw for small tiling projects.
- Solid Build: One of the most solidly built tabletop saws on the market with decent power, an efficient water evacuation system, and a sturdy fence.
- Lightweight and Portable: Easy to store and carry around due to its lightweight and small size.
- Cost-Effective Blades: Uses seven-inch blades, which are cheaper than those used on most freestanding saws that run 10-inch blades.
Cons of the Sentinel 7-inch Tabletop Tile Saw
- Risk of Blowouts: Due to the direction of the blade’s spin, there is a higher risk of blowouts when cutting tiles, a common issue with all tabletop saws.
- Inability to Make Proper Outside Miter Cuts: The saw cannot make proper outside miter cuts, which is the only type of miter cut needed when setting tiles.
- Water Spray: This saw sprays water, which can soak you and your floor unless you keep the blade guard or “splash” guard completely down on top of your tile while cutting.
To reduce water splashing:
- Use a mud mixing bowl to catch water runoff.
- Wear a plastic apron to direct water into the bowl.
- Construct a small tent behind the saw to manage water from larger tiles.
Who Should Buy the Sentinel 7-inch Tabletop Tile Saw?
Suppose you are working in a small home and only doing smaller projects like a backsplash or a floor. In that case, the Sentinel tile saw is a good option, and it is heavy-duty enough to handle a medium to large project, like a tub shower remodel, if you decide to go that way. However, considering it costs $174, I recommend looking at the Ridged 7in freestanding tile-saw instead. This tile saw is the cheapest freestanding tile saw I have seen around and is available at Home Depot. It is perfect for a handyman who does occasional tile work or a homeowner who is into DIY. If you find it on sale, I think it is close to $250, which is an excellent deal since it is only $75 more than the Sentinel 7-inch tabletop tile saw.
FAQs
What is the maximum tile size that the Sentinel 7-inch Tabletop Tile Saw can handle?
The saw can comfortably handle tiles up to 12×24 inches, but for larger tiles, you may need to use deck extensions or perform cuts in stages.
Can the Sentinel 7-inch Tabletop Tile Saw make bevel cuts?
Yes, the saw can make bevel cuts at 45 degrees and 22.5 degrees. However, it is better suited for inside miters.
How often should I change the blade on my tile saw?
Blade replacement depends on usage frequency and the type of materials you are cutting. Generally, if you notice a decrease in cutting efficiency or more chipping than usual, it might be time to change the blade.
Is the water spray from the saw a significant issue?
The water spray can be an issue if not managed properly. Using a plastic apron, setting up a water catchment system like a mixing bowl, and keeping the blade guard in place can significantly reduce the mess.
Can the Sentinel 7-inch Tabletop Tile Saw be used for professional projects?
While the saw is robust and capable, it is better suited for small to medium-sized DIY projects. For extensive professional use, a more heavy-duty, freestanding tile saw would be preferable.
What are some tips to improve cutting accuracy with this saw?
Always double-check measurements with a tape measure, especially when setting the fence. Making shallow initial cuts at one end of the tile first can help prevent tile blowouts.
Can the Sentinel 7-inch Tabletop Tile Saw cut glass tiles?
Yes, you need to buy a 7-inch tile saw glass cutting blade.
Thank you for reading. I hope you found this helpful.
