Ridgid Table Top Wet Tile Saw

Ridgid R4021 Table Top Wet Tile Saw Review

Starting a tile project can often feel daunting, especially when faced with the need to make precise cuts on a variety of materials. The Ridgid R4021 Table Top Wet Tile Saw stands out as a compact yet powerful tool designed for both DIY enthusiasts and professionals alike. With a host of features aimed at enhancing usability and precision, this tile saw promises to be a valuable addition to any toolkit.

First Impressions

Straight out of the box, the Ridgid R4021 impresses with its solid construction and straightforward assembly. The saw is relatively lightweight at 27 pounds, making it highly portable and easy to move around your job site or home. The integrated carrying handle further adds to its portability. The overall build quality feels robust, with a durable roll cage design that promises longevity even under frequent use.

Cutting Performance

The saw comes equipped with a 7-inch premium diamond blade, which is essential for efficient and precise cutting. During my time with the tool, I used it to cut various types of tiles including ceramic, porcelain, and even some stone. The blade handled each material with ease, delivering smooth cuts without chipping. The 3450 RPM motor provides ample power to cut through tiles up to 1.25 inches in thickness, which is more than sufficient for most home projects.

One standout feature is the anti-splash system, which effectively reduces water splashing, making it possible to use the saw indoors without creating a mess. The clear splash hood also provides good visibility of the blade and the cut line, ensuring accuracy in every cut.

Table and Fence System

The detachable table support is another highlight, increasing the rip cut capacity to accommodate tiles up to 24 inches. This feature is particularly useful when working with larger tiles, offering a stable and spacious cutting surface. The 16-inch extruded aluminum rail provides excellent support for larger tiles, making it easier to achieve precise cuts.

The saw’s fence system is both a boon and a slight bane. On the positive side, the fence is adjustable and locks down securely, providing accurate straight and angle cuts. However, it only latches at the front, leading to some deflection at the rear end. This deflection issue can be mitigated with a clamp, but it’s an extra step that could have been avoided with a dual-latching system.

Additional Features

The Ridgid R4021 comes with several thoughtful features aimed at improving user experience. The tilting bevel table allows for 22.5° and 45° bevel cuts, adding versatility to the types of cuts you can achieve. The die-cast aluminum miter guide is smooth and reliable for diagonal cuts, though it could be improved in terms of sliding ease.

On-board storage for tools is a nice touch, ensuring that essential accessories like wrenches and guides are always within reach. The saw also includes a cord holder, which helps keep the workspace tidy and free of tripping hazards.

Usability and Maintenance

Ease of use is a major plus for this saw. The setup is intuitive, and the instruction manual is clear and comprehensive, making it accessible even for those new to tile cutting. The saw’s compact size means it can be used in a variety of settings, from a kitchen table to an outdoor workspace.

Maintenance is straightforward, thanks to the simple water reservoir system. The reservoir is easy to fill and empty, though the drain plug’s positioning could have been better. It’s not at the lowest point, which means you have to tilt the saw to completely drain it. I found that using a cookie sheet under the saw to direct the water into a bucket was an effective workaround for this minor inconvenience.

Areas for Improvement

No tool is perfect, and the Ridgid R4021 has a few areas where it could be improved. The most significant issue I encountered was the metallic residue left on some tiles, particularly high-gloss ones. This is likely due to the aluminum base, which could benefit from a smoother finish to prevent marking the tiles. Additionally, the blade guard support needs to be perfectly aligned to avoid binding the tile, which requires careful adjustment.

The stand, sold separately, is functional but could be sturdier. It’s adequate for light work but may not hold up under more demanding tasks. Finally, the drain plug’s O-ring could be more durable, as it showed signs of wear after limited use.

Final Thoughts

Overall, the Ridgid R4021 Table Top Wet Tile Saw offers excellent value for its price. It combines portability, power, and precision, making it a versatile tool for a wide range of tile cutting tasks. Despite a few minor issues, its performance and ease of use make it a strong contender in the market for both DIYers and professionals.

I would recommend the Ridgid R4021 for anyone looking for a reliable, compact tile saw that delivers on its promises. Its strengths far outweigh its weaknesses, and with a bit of care and a few workarounds, it can handle most tile cutting projects with ease. The lifetime service agreement is an added bonus, providing peace of mind and ensuring long-term usability.