The Pros And Cons Of Concrete Cutting

Concrete cutting is part and parcel of the construction niche. However, it needs to be done with the right tools and at the right time to prevent any damage.

Here’s what you need to know about concrete cutting, including the pros and cons.

What Are The Commonly Used Methods For Concrete Cutting 

Following are some of the methods that are used for efficient concrete cutting:

1. Diamond Sawing

Diamond saws are very fast and cut more precisely than any other cutting tools.

They are also quieter and generate less vibration than other concrete cutting tools.

As a result, they are less likely to damage the concrete or the surrounding areas.

2. Concrete Wall Sawing

Here the cutting process is done using a round blade that’s fixed on a track-mounted tool which makes it easier for the tools to go up on the wall.

It’s also easier to cut any concrete on ceilings too. It’s a popular technique used for cutting walls of at least 40cm thickness.

3. Wire Sawing

This is used when other cutting methods fail. It’s actually used for larger concrete cutting projects also.

The saws used for wire sawing have a multi-strand cable with small diamond segments aligned in a pulley system which is attached to a hydraulic powered wheel.

The wire spins around and cuts the material every time the wheels are pulled.

4. Flat Drilling

This is commonly used for separating flat surfaces such as pavements, floors and any other related surfaces. It’s also considered as a type of slab sawing.

Here, you can put the tools you use in a cart so they can be pushed from the back.

Flat drilling can give you access to broken pipes or any broken wiring under a concrete floor.

How To Guarantee Efficient Concrete Cutting 

If concrete cutting isn’t done right it could result in a lot of damage to the entire construction project.

Here are some useful tips to guarantee efficient concrete cutting.

1. Choose The Right Saws For The Job

The main types of saws frequently used include wet saws, diamond blades, walk-behind saws and handheld cutting edge saws.

If you choose the right concrete cutting saws for the job, you can cut the concrete efficiently by switching the blades effortlessly.

2. Keep The Blades Sharp

Using a dull blade to cut concrete increases the chances of fracturing. It will also heat up the saw and cause damage. This will also create a lot of dust too.

For the best concrete cutting results, you should immediately swap blades the moment they show any signs of wear and tear.

Inspect your blades thoroughly before you start the process to avoid changing blades in between the job.

3. Keep Spare Blades Around

As mentioned, there are different types of blades used in varying concrete cutting processes. You should also keep some spare blades around.

That way, if you have to switch to a different concrete cutting material, you don’t need to make a run to the hardware store.

4. Handling Buried Materials

You need to know where the wiring, rebar and pipes are embedded in the concrete.

If not, when you are cutting through, you might damage these materials. Make sure you cut at a height that avoids these materials effortlessly.

5. Control The Dust Produced

If you are working on interior concrete cutting projects like countertops or concrete floors, you need to use wet saws for the project.

It will prevent a lot of dust from flying around inside the house. Wet saws can also be used outdoors too for the best results.

6. Wait For Curing

Wait to cut the concrete during the curing process. Timing is everything. Wet and completely dry concrete will fracture at the surface.

Wait for the concrete to be firm and at least half cured for the best results.

The Pros Of Concrete Cutting 

1. Quality Work

With the right saws and perfect timing, you can cut your concrete effortlessly.

2. Affordable

With the right concrete cutting equipment, there is less manpower required for the job so you can invest in purchasing the right equipment.

3. Fast

If you are looking to finish your construction project fast, you can use the right tool for the job to meet your deadlines effortlessly.

4. Dust-Free

By using wet saws for the concrete cutting process you can avoid causing too much dust.

5. Less Manpower

Most of the equipment used in concrete cutting only need one person to handle it. Therefore, there is less manpower compared to previous methods.

6. Used For Tight Spaces Efficiently 

Previously, it was hard to cut any concrete in tight spaces. However, it’s changed completely with new equipment and advanced technology.

Besides all the advantages of concrete cutting, there are some cons you should take note of as the process is not conventional.

Failure to put all the safety measures in place might cause harm to the operator and damage the concrete itself.

If you are looking for a specialist concrete cutting company who uses only the best practices to get the job done right, then please call us at Megasaw  on 1300 920 419 or contact us through our website www.megasaw.com.au/contact-us/