5. Know When to Use Backup

In our March 2011 issue of Canadian Home Workshop (on newsstands now), we have an article called “50 Things Every Handyman Should Know.” Item No. 5 in that list looks at backer board.

A perfect cut can be ruined right at the end. As a bit or blade leaves a workpiece, the cutter can cause some splintering as it exits the wood. To prevent this tearout, set a sacrificial backer board against the wood where the bit or blade will exit. The backer board will support those fibres on the end as you drill, rout or cut. Ensure that you cut well into the backer board.

Do you have any cautionary tales as to why one should use a backer board?