Follow these tips when cutting concrete.
The science between concrete cutting is precise and detailed. Industry experts and professionals have come up with factors and processes to ensure that the integrity and structure of the concrete slabs will be maintained, even after cutting. It’s a controlled process that requires skill and technique.
When
The exact time when concrete can be cut depends on several factors, including the hardness of the concrete, the type of blade you’re working with, the weather conditions, and the type of concrete and aggregate mix. There is a sweet spot when it comes to cutting concrete, which is a good medium in the age of the concrete. Too early will cause raveling while cutting too late results in uncontrolled cracking. Test the concrete with your wire saw before continuing.
Where
If the slab of concrete is particularly large, it could be more effective to have more than one saw on hand to cut several areas at the same time. Industry experts recommend staring cuts at the center of column lines. A structural engineer will be able to determine where joints should be placed, depending on the amount of reinforcement. Other factors that will help you determine where the concrete should be cut include the measurements to form square patterns and ensuring that the saw cuts are continuous. Be sure to select an area that doesn’t have continuous steel reinforcement. In hot weather, form larger squares and cut interior joints to control fast setting concrete cracks.
How
Before making the cuts, clearly mark them with a chalk line. The blade should reach its required depth before the operator begins to walk or move the equipment along the designated chalk line. Make sure not to twist the blade or let blade spin in the cut. Blades with soft metal segment bonds are the most effective for cutting concrete with heavy rebar. As a general rule, joints should be cut from one-quarter to one-third the thickness of the slab. Shallow cuts will result in random cracking.
Concrete Care and Maintenance from Concrete Visions
Concrete Visions has over 12 years of experience and expertise in concrete scanning and we know how to detect any problems lurking beneath the surface. We use ground penetrating radar accurately and expertly and are familiar in many other methods that can be used when appropriate like concrete x-ray and electromagnetic conductivity. We are also very familiar with the latest construction safety techniques and train all of our workers to do their work quickly, accurately, and safely. If you would like to learn more about how we can help you, give is a call at (410) 766-2210 or visit us online. For more articles and tips, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, and Google+.