There are many reasons for needing to learn how to be efficient at using a concrete saw and making sure you have the right blade. Some are safety, efficiency, accuracy, and then of course profitability. It isn’t always as easy as grabbing a saw and making the required cuts. Though we will go through some tips to help increase your chances of only having to make one good cut.
Using the right saw & blade for the job.
Making sure to know the difference between the concrete saw types and blade uses before beginning a project is essential:
- Wet saws: a constant applying of water to the cutting surface dampens down the dust and reduces the heat of the blade, resulting in less wear and faster cutting.
- Diamond Blades: blades with the correct concentration, size, and quality of diamond for the particular material being cut to make a clean and fast job and show a satisfactory result. Some Blade types – Green Concrete, Reinforce Concrete, Asphalt, General Purpose, Brick & Block, Decorative (Wide Cut) and Electric Blades
- Large walk-behind saws: when large floors require meters of expansion the large walk-behind saws handle it a fast, accurate, and ergonomic way.
- Light walk-behind and Handheld saws: tackle the smaller jobs that require more maneuverability.
However, it's not only about getting the right gear, but you also need to ensure that you know how to keep your blades in good condition and knowing when to replace them. Cutting concrete with a dull or damaged blade increases the chances of a chipped cut and personal injury. The incorrect blade will cause extra heat which will reduce the lifespan, slow the cutting speed down, and may increase the amount of dust it produces. It will also put extra pressure on the machine you are using. Invest in the right blades when you plan to do your next lot of concrete cutting, you’ll be safer, more efficient, and more profitable.
See Blade options – Click Here
Do’s and Don’ts of Concrete Saws.
Do’s
- When cutting, retract the blade and let it run freely every 30 seconds. This will ensure that the saw does not overheat.
- Always wear protective safety equipment when cutting through concrete. Flying fragments of debris can be extremely dangerous and can lead to serious injury. Always make sure that you are wearing safety goggles, earmuffs, and gloves.
- Make sure you have the correct blade for the job
- Always use water cooling if and where possible
Don’ts:
- Never force a blade into the cut and exert too much pressure on the saw. Simply let the weight of the saw do all the cutting.
- Do not ever start cutting without a map planned out in your mind and on the surface for how the job will be completed. Prepare properly by using a piece of chalk to draw out where you want to cut.
When you are cutting, do you know where the pipes, rebar, and wiring are embedded in the concrete?
