FAQ Concrete Cutting Saw

Most people will not come into contact with a concrete cutting saw on a regular basis. They are mostly used by contractors and building workers. But that is not to say that you one day may not decide to use one on a home improvement job. But how much do you really know about concrete saws and what you can use one for? Do you know how to operate one or how much it would cost to purchase one? If you do not, rest assured that this article can help you with some of the facts about the basics. It may not make you a experienced operator who uses a concrete saw daily but it can definitely assist you to understand what they are and how they are used. You may one day decide to take up home improvement as a hobby once you develope the saw skills down pat.

What exactly are concrete saws?

Concrete saws are powered tools that are used to cut through concrete, tile, stone and other dense materials which would otherwise break conventional cutting tools. Petrol engines are the dominant means used to power the tool, but sources of power include electricity, as well as pneumatic and hydraulic pressure. Diverse ranges of saws are offered, depending on the kind of job that is required. Smaller hand held units with circular or chainsaw blades allow for troublesome to access cuts. The larger walk behind models are available, designed for cutting floors or sidewalks.

What is the cost of concrete saws?

The cost of concrete saws differs greatly depending on the kind of saw, and the way of powering it. Electric saws are the least expensive, with hand held units starting around $400 and $500. Hand held gasoline models are a lot more expensive, beginning at around $900. Walk behind units begin near $1500 and can go as high as thousands depending on the engine size and available options. Hydraulic and pneumatic models, dependent upon additional equipment for their use, usually cost several thousand dollars and tend to used by commercial entities that already utilize hydraulic and air powered equipment.

Do concrete saws cut more than just concrete?

While predominantly used for cutting dense materials like concrete and stone, the concrete saw is by no means limited to cutting just these items. Tile and other ceramic items that are difficult to cut by other means, react well to the abrasive cutting method. Steel, often found embedded in concrete and masonry for reinforcement, can also be cut by the abrasive grinding of the concrete saw. An area of concern is to know what type of materials you will or might be cutting when selecting the blade for your saw.

How should I dispose of the debris left when I have used my concrete saw?

In most cases the debris left over after using construction equipment will require additional disposal requirements. A lot companies will offer dumpsters that can be brought to your location to assist in the removal of concrete and stone remains. Depending on the structure and areas to be cut, one needs to be aware of potentially hazardous materials that may be uncovered. Asbestos, a known carcinogen, is one of these that have been known to be found in older buildings. If found, professional removal companies have to be contacted to properly handle the clean up and removal operations.