Many do-it-yourselfers who own and routinely use a portable circular saw for cutting lumber and wood panels are aware that special hardened, carbide-tipped blades are available that will cut through nails hiding in timber. Many people are unaware that these electric power saws may also be used to cut through wood. Carbide-tipped blades are more resistant to breakage than ordinary steel blades and they can slice through even thick pieces of wood without heating up too much or causing the wood to splinter. Carbide is a metal derived from carbon. It is made into knives and tools that last longer and perform better at high temperatures. Because bricks are made from clay, they can be cut with a carbide-tipped blade. The blade will not heat up when cutting brick, but it may wear down faster because you will be cutting into it repeatedly. Regular sharpening will be necessary during its life to maintain its efficiency. Brick is an easy material to cut with a carbide-tipped blade because it's so hard. However, brick cuts very quickly and therefore requires frequent monitoring. If there is any sign of overheating or if the blade starts to show signs of wear, immediately shut off the power source and remove the blade from the brick before it gets too hot or wears out further. There are specialized blades designed for cutting brick that will hold their edge longer and require replacement less often.