Q. What type of saw blade should I use to remove about an inch from a solid-surface countertop?

A.Tony Pelcher, a solid-surface fabricator at the Top Shop in S. Burlington, Vt., responds: Many manufacturers, including DeWalt, Everlast, and Forrest, make circular saw blades for cutting solid surfacing. The most efficient blade will have as close to a zero rake as possible.

But since every solid-surface cut should be trimmed with a router, saw blade choice is not too important, especially if you are making only an occasional cut. Once you’ve made your cut (about 1/8 inch beyond your final mark), clamp a straightedge to the solid surfacing and rout the edge using a straight bit with a template guide, or with a template bit with a bearing above the cutter.