How to Cut Concrete: 4 Steps

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How to Cut Concrete: 4 Steps
How to Cut Concrete: 4 Steps
Anonim

It is possible to cut concrete according to different specifications than the standard ones. You are confidently able to cut any concrete with a thickness even greater than 10 cm, even if it requires more demanding work. This article tells you how to cut concrete for sidewalks, terraces, basement walls and house slabs that are normally no thicker than 6 inches. Cutting thicker concrete should be done by a professional with appropriate equipment.

Steps

Cut Concrete Step 1
Cut Concrete Step 1

Step 1. Prepare the concrete segment to be cut

Use a chalk line marker to mark a straight line on the concrete. In this way you outline the area to be cut

Cut Concrete Step 2
Cut Concrete Step 2

Step 2. Use a 15 amp circular saw with an abrasive or diamond blade to cut to a depth of 5cm

This works particularly well when working with a pavement.

  • Set the depth of the blade to 5 cm.
  • Start cutting the edge of the concrete and slowly follow the line you drew with the plotter. You can wet the blade by pouring water into it to cool it and reduce dust.
  • This depth guarantees you a straight edge that you can follow to subsequently finish cutting the residual thickness and at the same time obtain a linear profile to overlap more fresh concrete.
Cut Concrete Step 3
Cut Concrete Step 3

Step 3. Use a petrol or electric power cutter to cut concrete with a thickness greater than 10 cm

  • The power cutter allows you to penetrate to a depth of 15 cm.
  • Most driveways, slabs, foundations, or load-bearing walls of houses have this thickness.
Cut Concrete Step 4
Cut Concrete Step 4

Step 4. Follow the same procedure you used for using the circular saw and locate the starting point

  • Cut the concrete to the correct thickness.
  • Proceed slowly, keeping the rotation speed of the blade to a minimum. The reduced speed prevents the blade from overheating and the launch of dangerous splinters.
  • If you have a helper, have them keep the chalk line free of dust when you cut.

Advice

  • When you work with a gasoline saw, it prolongs the life of the blade by wetting it. A garden hose that just sprays the blade keeps it cool and keeps dust down.
  • There really is a need for two people for this job: you and someone who isn't afraid to get dirty.
  • This technique is ideal for cutting or processing concrete for decorative purposes. It also allows standing water to drain out of the concrete more easily.
  • If you don't have a power cutter, you can buy or rent one from a DIY store.

Warnings

  • When using the power cutter, wear protective clothing, safety shoes, shin guards, goggles, a full face shield and a helmet.
  • Do not use water on or near a power saw.
  • Abrasive blades are less expensive than diamond blades, but wear out faster.

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