Four Important Guidelines on Managing Your Concrete Cutting Project
Posted on: 24 April 2017
Concrete cutting is an essential process for your commercial property if you are planning on performing major structural modifications. Unfortunately, this task can be difficult and hazardous because the practice interferes with an established building or surface. Therefore, it is important to engage an expert concrete contractor for the project. Also, consider these simple guidelines for successful management of the concrete cutting work.
Locate Concealed Materials
There are necessary materials concealed by concrete construction in all commercial properties. These items are crucial to the operation of the building, and their damage could interfere with your business. Moreover, the cost of repair and restoration could be high. You should ensure that your contractor has located the utility lines, reinforcing steel bars, data cabling and electrical conduits in the concrete material before starting the project. The assessment can be performed using ground radar or by studying construction plans.
Select an Appropriate Saw
The right concrete cutting equipment is critical to the success of your commercial renovation project. You need to think about the scope of the work and compare with the different saws available from your supplier. If you need to handle large slab surfaces, a walk-behind saw will perform the task fast. Wall or track saws are essential for vertical concrete structures. For small-scale work, handheld equipment will accomplish the work with relative ease. If you must cut reinforced concrete, you should acquire a wire saw. This tool uses a sharp diamond cable for optimal cutting efficiency.
Acquire Multiple Blades
Concrete saws are fitted with diamond blades to perform the actual cutting tasks. As the blade is used, it loses the original sharpness and compromises the efficiency. Also, dull components are prone to overheating which increases the risk of the concrete structure fracturing. For this reason, it is important to acquire multiple blades for your project. This option will allow your workers to switch out the blades when they start losing their edge. You will avoid the risks attached to using dull tools without compromising the efficiency of the project.
Plan for Dust Control
One of the biggest problems experienced when cutting concrete is dust production. This contaminant will interfere with the surroundings and can cause respiratory problems for individuals in and around the work site. Make sure that there is a dust control plan in place. Ideally, you should choose wet sawing methods because the water will reduce the particles. You should also cover vulnerable items near or in the work site and provide the workers with proper personal protection equipment.
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