What are some of the factors to consider before choosing a concrete saw? Cost, blade type, the type of job and more, all these play a role in determining the kind of saw you need. At Tradesmart, we believe that the right concrete saw can significantly boost productivity on a construction site. Whether you need help selecting a masonry saw for large scale work or a brick saw for a home project, contact our team for assistance.
Type of Saw
There are many different types of concrete saws on the market, each with their own functions and features. Here are the most common types of saws that operators can choose from:
Hand Saws
These are small saws that easily slice through concrete and brick. They are lightweight, portable and ideal for installing air conditioning equipment.
Walk-Behind Concrete Saw
Equipped with powerful engines and sturdy frames, walk-behind concrete saws are capable of cutting through thick concrete quickly.
Wall Saw
Walls saws are installed on track mounted systems which allows them to make extremely precise vertical cuts for ducts, walls, windows and doors. They are valued for their ease of use and precise, accurate cuts.
Wire Saw
Wire saws are versatile, economical and capable of handling a large volume of concrete work with minimal wastage.
Core Drills
Core drills are powerful machines that cut holes of various sizes through concrete surfaces.
Type of Blade
Before choosing the type of saw, you’ll need to determine the type of blade you need. Diamond blades are the tool of choice for operators who need to make deep cuts using dry and wet concrete cutting methods.
Corundum masonry blades are better suited for short, shallow cuts of around one inch. These blades have a shorter lifespan but are useful for smaller concrete cuts.
Type of Job
Understanding the exact requirements of the job will help you choose the saw you need. Here are some questions to consider:
- How deep a cut do you need to make?
- Is it a large area? Or do you need to work in tight spaces?
- Will the cuts be straight or curved?
- Do you have access to uninterrupted power? If not, should you opt for a gas or electric powered unit?
Consider Cost
Unless you need to saw concrete on a regular basis, purchasing a concrete saw may not be necessary. It might be worthwhile to rent a concrete saw for a while to fully understand your requirements before making a purchase.