What is concrete cutting?

Concrete cutting is a controlled sawing, drilling and concrete removal process performed by skilled operators using specialty saws using diamond impregnated blades. Unlike the old dusty “jackhammer” method, modern concrete cutting leaves an attractive, smooth finish and uses water to avoid creating dust or dirt. There are many different types of concrete cutting, but the most common are wall sawing, core drilling, and slab or flat sawing.

Wall sawing is the process of cutting openings such as doors or windows in concrete walls, usually no more than 12 “thick, but in some cases up to 24” thick. This is accomplished by using a saw that attaches to a rail on the wall to be cut. This process uses a huge 30 “or even larger diameter diamond blade that can cut 12” or more of concrete from one side. This aspect of our business requires the utmost skill and cannot be easily accomplished by a do-it-yourself average. As stated, wall sawing can involve cutting openings in concrete foundations, but can also include reducing the elevation of a foundation, complete removal of the foundation, and also cutting concrete retaining walls. in part or in full. This type of concrete cutting requires skill and experience to cut perfectly smooth and level openings with virtually no dust or dirt, making it quite an expensive service. Most concrete cutting companies charge a minimum of $ 425 just to take your equipment to a site and cut.

Homeowners building additions to their home that have basements or basements commonly find that they need to cut their existing concrete foundation to add a driveway or passage between the new and existing basements. It is much easier and in most cases less expensive to perform this service during the construction process and not afterwards.

Core Drilling is the process of drilling perfectly round holes through concrete walls and floors. Hole diameters range from 1 “to 12” round, but an average of 5 “for most homeowner applications. In commercial applications, center holes can vary up to 60” round and more. The center vents are used for “utility penetrations” such as electrical, plumbing, and heating, but are also commonly used to ventilate ovens or clothes dryers. Although not recommended, core drilling can be done by an advanced do-it-yourself, and the equipment needed to perform core drilling is available at your local tool rental and supply store. Most companies charge a minimum fee of $ 250 to open a hole, and it can take as little as 10 minutes for a professional to unload your equipment, remove the hole, and recharge it. However, I have seen owners rent the equipment and spend an entire weekend trying to drill a single hole and then call in a professional to complete the project. As with any craft, a professional concrete cutter will make your job look easy.

Slab sawing, also known as flat sawing, is used to cut flat horizontal concrete surfaces such as floors, bridge decks, and pavement. Tile saws feature a diamond blade that is mounted on a walk-behind machine that requires only one operator. They can cut up to 33 inches deep, but generally only 6 “or less is needed in most homeowner applications. Slab sawing is the perfect solution for making penetrations or openings in concrete floors to access and repair a broken water pipe or sewer line. A basement or basement is being remodeled to add a bathroom; concrete is being removed to add new pipes for fixtures. A slab saw is also helpful in demolition work for breaking and Eliminate a cracked or unwanted patio, driveway, or driveway. Sometimes a homeowner may just want to cut a portion of a patio or other concrete slab to alter its design. Attempting a slab saw project can take a lot time for your average “do it yourself”, however, it can be achieved. I always recommend spending a little more money and saving yourself a very serious danger and aggravation by hiring a professional concrete cutting.

No matter what your project is, don’t let a little concrete get in your way. Concrete can be a homeowner’s worst obstacle if they don’t know there are companies that specialize in removing it quickly and in an orderly manner. To find a reputable concrete cutter, I recommend that you start with the yellow pages and always check with your local Better Business Bureau or your local Department of Consumer Protection. To gain more knowledge in the industry, simply do a search for “concrete cutting” and check out some dedicated websites.

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