Articles

How To Cut Concrete Efficiently

by Cutting In Core Drilling Sydney

While most large construction projects need the services of professional concrete cutters in Sydney, there are occasions when you may want to try cutting concrete yourself.

However, to do a good and, most importantly, safe job you’ll need to master a few techniques and learn how to cut concrete efficiently. It’s not a simple case of hiring a saw and making a few cuts. So, if you want to know how to cut concrete safely and efficiently, here are some recommendations from the professionals.

Learn the Basics

Before you start any concrete cutting Sydney professionals recommend that you learn the basics, and this starts with matching the saw to the job in hand. Understanding the different types of saws and choosing the right one for the job before you buy or hire equipment is essential for a successful outcome. The main types of concrete cutting saws include:

·         Wet Saws: As the name suggests, water sprays onto the surface as you cut to dampen down dust and clean the cutting area.

·         Diamond Bits and Blades: These make the cleanest, sharpest cuts and so are recommended for fine work or decorative details.

·         Walk-Behind Saws: These are large saws that will cut large areas fast.

·         Handheld Cutting Edge Saws: Used for tackling embedded rebar or corners that other saws can’t reach.

Having the correct saw will enable you to cut through concrete and other materials by simply changing the cutting heads or blades as necessary.

Sharpen the Blades

A dull blade will not only increase the chances of fracturing the concrete, but it will make the saw hot, increase the dust levels and potentially shorten the lifespan of the saw. Therefore, you need to replace blades as soon as you see evidence of wear and tear. If you plan to do extensive cutting, it’s wise to invest in heavy duty blades so that you don’t have to change the blades as often.

Keep a Stock of Blades

Having a stock of different types of blades will mean that you’ll always have the right blade for the job. You may need diamond coated blades for cutting reinforced concrete or a wet blade to keep dust to a minimum.

Know What’s Under the Concrete

Hidden inside your concrete may be wiring, pipes and rebar. If you don’t know where they are, you’ll need a blade that can cut through these materials or you may need to limit the depth of the cut.

Control the Production of Dust

If you are working inside, it’s important to keep dust levels down, therefore a wet saw will be needed. Don’t forget that if you’re using a wet saw outdoors that you’ll have to cut off all electricity sources.

However, Don’t Cut Too Soon

There is an optimum time for cutting. Wet concrete will fray and split while concrete that’s too dry may fracture. For best results, wait until the concrete hardens fully without being fully cured. It’s the optimum way to achieve straight cuts with smooth edges and minimal dust.


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About Cutting In Junior   Core Drilling Sydney

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Joined APSense since, November 30th, 2018, From Sydney, Australia.

Created on Feb 4th 2019 04:27. Viewed 303 times.

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