Working with concrete is much more complex than tossing a mix together and dumping it into a frame. The consistency of it matters, for one—but so do the tools used to get the job done. Proper knowledge of these tools is essential to creating a sturdy, solid structure, especially when it comes to working with the immense power that a concrete saw can harness.
Learn more about this job essential from Creative Concrete, your New Brighton local concrete contractors and providers of stamped concrete.
What Is Saw Cutting?
It’s just as its name implies: using a concrete saw to cut concrete. Such saws are specially made for this purpose, and they use either diamond composite or corundum blades, according to The Family Handyman. They’re also expensive, as many powerful tools are, and require finesse and expert knowledge, as any tool of that level does.
While corundum blades might be much more affordable, diamond blades are often the preferred choice for professional residential concrete contractors, as they last much longer than their corundum counterparts.
Why Is Saw Cutting Important?
Concrete can be poured into any shape imaginable, so why is there a need for specialized machines to cut it? It’s a valid question!
The purpose of saw cutting is to create control joints. These divots in the concrete “help control where cracking occurs due to shrinkage,” according to The Spruce. As we covered in a previous concrete company blog, cracking is to be expected at some point with this substance; control joints can help to direct such cracks so the structure lasts as long as possible while also maintaining its intended good looks.
When Does Saw Cutting Occur?
It cannot be done when the concrete is freshly poured or too wet, as this results in sloppy edges instead of clean lines. It also cannot be done too late, as this causes undue stress upon the structure and can actually result in additional cracking.
When to saw-cut a concrete structure is up to the individual contractor. Generally speaking, though, it occurs up to eighteen hours after the concrete is poured on the long end of things. External temperatures can affect how soon this occurs, and trial cuts can be made to check the consistency of the concrete.
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