Table Saw Makeover

Learn how to clean, restore, and maintain your table saw's surface. Remove rust, grime, and buildup to improve performance and safety in your workshop.

If your table saw doubles as a workbench, assembly table, or sanding station, you're not alone—especially in a compact workshop. Over time, heavy use can leave your saw's surface covered in dried glue, finish residue, scratches, and even rust. While these blemishes might seem cosmetic, they can interfere with your woodworking. Rough or dirty surfaces can scratch your workpieces, reduce accuracy, and cause unwanted friction during cuts.

In this step-by-step article, you’ll learn a straightforward, effective process to clean and restore your cast iron table saw top. From removing rust to polishing the surface for smooth material movement, this makeover improves both performance and appearance. A little maintenance not only makes your saw safer and easier to use but also extends its life—making it a key part of your woodworking success.

Whether you’re a seasoned woodworker or a DIY enthusiast, this table saw maintenance guide will help you get the most out of one of your shop’s most important tools.

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What You Get:

  • 3 pages of step-by-step instructions
  • 9 full-color photos, illustrations and exploded views
  • Detailed instruction for getting great results
  • Materials list and cutting diagram
  • Retail sources for hardware and supplies

Product Recommendations

We don't have any links to project supplies and hardware for this particular project yet, but here are some other products that might be of interest to you. (We may receive commission when you use our affiliate links. However, this does not impact our recommendations.)

Titebond III Wood Glue

Kreg Mini Trak

Tung Oil Varnish

PSA Sandpaper Roll