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non-slip, beautiful concrete finishes for pool decks

Questions You Should Ask Before Starting Your Concrete Cutting Project

by Bessie Armstrong

Whether you're customizing a patio slab or doing other backyard work, you may find that you need to cut concrete to shape it correctly. If so, you're probably going to want to invest in a diamond blade to help you get the job done right. Diamond blades are crafted specifically to cut through some of the hardest materials, so that makes them durable enough to shape concrete. But, before you go out and buy just any diamond blade, you should understand your options. Here are some things to consider.

What Is Your Concrete Like?

Concrete can be made up of different types of aggregate, and that aggregate content will play a role in the type of blade you need. For example, if the concrete has large aggregate chunks, you're going to need something that's really durable. A heavy-duty diamond blade is the best choice for something like that. If, on the other hand, the concrete is made from smaller aggregate pieces, you can do the job with a basic diamond blade in most cases.

The other thing to consider when you're evaluating the concrete is the kind of sand used to make it. A sharp sand mix can be abrasive on the blade, wearing it down. You can avoid a lot of this wear and tear by choosing a heavier diamond blade that will hold up to it. Crushed sand is the sharpest type that could be used in your concrete structure. River sand is more moderate, and fine granules are typically not abrasive.

How Old is Your Concrete?

The age of the concrete can also be important when selecting a cutting blade. The older the concrete pad, the more curing it has done. That means that the concrete gets harder as it ages. As a result, you'll want a more durable diamond blade for older concrete than you'd choose for a fairly green concrete structure that hasn't cured for more than a year or two.

How Are You Cutting the Concrete?

There are two ways to cut concrete – wet and dry. You'll want to make sure you know which approach you're going to be using, because your blade needs to be made specifically for that application. Wet cutting blades require a constant flow of water to keep the blade cool while it cuts. Dry cutting blades don't need moisture. Wet cutting won't create near as much dust, but it is more involved.

You shouldn't use a wet cutting blade in an application where you're going to be dry cutting. The blade won't be able to hold up to the friction and the heat, and it could cause damage to your saw, the blade, and the concrete. Be attentive to the type of blade you choose to be sure it fits your application.

Now that you understand some of the basics, you can choose the blades you need for a successful concrete cutting project. If you aren't confident doing the work yourself, talk with a local concrete contractor, like National Concrete Cutting, for help.

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