It can be tough to decide on the best tools for cutting concrete when there are so many options available. However, by following a few simple steps, you can easily narrow down your choices and find the perfect tool for the job at hand. If you’re not sure where to start, here are some tips to help you select the best concrete cutting tool.
What Type of Concrete Are You Cutting?
There are over 16 types of concrete, so you’ll need to be sure you choose the right tool and blade for your specific application. Most cutting tools will work through plain concrete, but if you are working on concrete that has been heavily reinforced with steel rebar, you should check with the manufacturer to make sure you are using the correct blade.
Match the Concrete Saw to the Project
Cut Off Saws
Cut-off saws are hand-held tools that quickly and easily cut through concrete or steel, making them perfect for cutting rebar, pipe, or opening up spaces in walls and curbs.
You’ll usually find that cut-off saws are powered by gasoline engines. Even so, for smaller projects where you need to cut materials like bricks and pavers, there are now corded and battery-powered options available that might be more suitable.
Walk-Behind Saws
When you’re looking to cut a slab of concrete or pavement, walk-behind saws are the way to go. Also called floor or flat saws, these wheel-mounted tools can be a great addition to your toolkit – but only if you select the right one for the job at hand. It’s important to consider factors like blade size and diameter, as well as the strength of the concrete, when making your selection.
If you’re looking to make deeper cuts in material like pavement or tarmac, you’ll need a heavier and more powerful saw. The extra weight helps engage the blade into the cut area, giving you a sharper cut. Self-propelled models allow you to move faster on larger jobs.
Circular Saws
For small jobs, a circular saw with a diamond tip blade is easier to handle than larger cut off saws or walk behind models. This is a great option when making small repairs to sidewalks, patios or driveways.
Worm Drive Saws
Due to the way they are engineered, a worm drive saw produces more torque than a circular saw. They are also heavier and a bit harder to handle, but when you need the power, the worm-drive saw is the answer.
Miter Saw
Yes, you can use your miter saw to cut concrete pavers and other small objects, but you will need to install a diamond blade.
Angle Grinder
This tool can be used to cut almost any material – including concrete. It’s portable, easy to handle, and available in both a corded and battery-operated model. As with other generic tools, you’ll need to install a diamond tip or other approved concrete cutting wheel on before use.
Jackhammer
For big jobs that don’t require smooth cut lines, the jackhammer is the best tool for the job. They are available in corded and pneumatic versions, and make quick work of breaking slabs of concrete into chunks.
Will Your On-site Power Supply be Enough?
Make sure you either have shore power or a generator that will produce the proper amperage to run the corded concrete tools you will be using. The amp range is usually between 8 and 15, but read the manufacturer’s guide to be sure. Most contractor grade generators will handle this load easily.
There is a concrete tool for any type of project you are working on. At Kinnunen, we pride ourselves in providing outstanding customer service to both contractors and homeowners alike. Our team is continually trained on the most up-to-date technology available for all of our concrete cutting tools. Call us today at (405) 784-4259, and speak to one of our equipment specialists to see how we can help you.
