Wall Sawing Archives

Megasaw12 June 20192 November 2021Wall Sawing

What Are The Dangers Of Drilling Holes In Concrete Walls?

Working with concrete is common in construction projects. With that said, accidents can happen at any given time.

If you are planning to drill through concrete walls, taking the proper precautions can help you avoid any mishaps.

This guide will show you the best way to get the job done without placing yourself in any danger.

Survey The Area

There are many different things that can lie behind concrete walls, including electrical equipment and metal beams.

It is in your best interest to do a survey of the area where you will be drilling prior to getting started.

The most effective way to do this would be to take a look at the architectural plans of the structure.

This leaves no doubt when it comes to determining where you should and should not drill.

If you are unable to gain access to the plans, you will have to take notice of things like electrical sockets, assume equipment is nearby and be extra careful when drilling.

Drill Shallow Holes

If there is any doubt about whether there are wires behind a wall, you should focus on drilling shallow holes.

In many cases, this will allow you the opportunity to do what you need without placing yourself in any danger.

Drilling too far and hitting a wire is a recipe for disaster. In most cases, wires are embedded at least two and a half centimetres deep.

Try your best to remember this before you begin your project.

Purchase A Stud Finder

This is a device that will help you locate all of the studs that are hidden inside concrete walls.

Studs are generally used to provide support for things like windows, insulation and doors.

When using this tool, it will be possible to determine which part of the wall is less hollow than the rest, which is an indication that a stud may be placed there.

Keep in mind that this is not 100% effective, so it is still important for you to be careful.

Avoid Handheld Drills

These are not durable or efficient enough to make their way through concrete without jamming or experiencing some kind of kickback.

As a result, there is a chance that the user will sustain an injury. Specialised equipment is needed for this task.

If you do not have access to this type of equipment, you should consider hiring it from a local company.

Another option would be to hire someone to handle this part of the project for you.

Check For Stability Periodically

When you start drilling through concrete walls, there is a huge chance that they may become unstable.

You have to check for this every once in a while to make sure that the concrete does not end up breaking up and collapsing and causing any injuries.

Also, checking for weak areas prior to drilling would be a wise decision. This will reduce the chances of anyone being in danger while drilling the necessary holes.

Cover Your Mouth

You should wear a face mask when you are drilling since there will be dust in the air. This will prevent you from inhaling silica dust, which can lead to sickness.

Even if you do not plan to drill for very long, it is best to err on the side of caution and be safe.

Drilling holes in concrete does not have to be as difficult or dangerous as it sounds.

If you want to reduce the chances of sustaining any injuries, make sure that you follow all of the advice that was offered in this quick guide.

It will keep you safe while working on your project.

If you are looking for a specialist concrete cutting company who uses only the best practices to get the job done right, then please call us at Megasaw on 1300 920 419 or contact us through our website www.megasaw.com.au/contact-us/

Megasaw25 May 20172 November 2021Concrete Cutting, Concrete Sawing, Construction, News, Wall Sawing

Saw Cutting Concrete Requires More Than Just An Eye On Safety

Modern engineering produces amazing results. You can see these on the roads, the homes and buildings, the utility poles, and the vehicles going to and from your community. These are all products of people’s efforts and the tools in their hands.

bioluminescent bridge

Even though most will not know how these are built, the beauty of it is that consumers don’t really need to know that.

But behind the mystery and marvel, those in the know of the concrete saw cutting, understand that architecture and structural engineering still boil down to basics like people using hammers and nails and doing cutting with the use of a saw to come up with the needed materials.

The use of saw to cut is typically associated with nature and with sawing wood for campfires, make-shift shelters, walking sticks, concrete and shelters.

concrete saw cutting

But besides these, saw cutting is a must in several industries. For instance, there is metal saw cutting which is done from the framing of vehicles and automobiles to creating the mesh rebar that is used in the paving of many roads.

Concrete Saw Cutting

Concrete saw cutting is also done to deconstruct things. Law enforcement agents sometimes need to cut through fences or even vehicles. Power saw cutting is used to get past locks of rental storage units so that the abandoned goods inside can be taken and auctioned off.

RELATED: What is Concrete Cutting?

But no matter the purpose, remember that using a saw is dangerous. If used improperly, it can damage what is being cut and hurt or even kill people. Safety goggles are a must with any power saw, and the person handling the saw must have the proper training.

RELATED: Tips on Safe and Efficient Concrete Cutting

Given the risks, a person must know how to use the saw safely. Good thing that this skill, coupled with experience can be useful and profitable.

Note that working with concrete is an art form and there’s definitely a market for concrete furniture, carvings, and other products.

Besides this, you’ll also have employment opportunities in the construction industry, particularly if you know how to saw cutting a concrete.

RELATED: Detailed Concrete Cutting Pros and Cons

Megasaw13 July 201631 October 2021Concrete Sawing, MegaSaw News, Wall Sawing

Various Concrete Wall Sawing Techniques and Their Top Benefits

Learn the difference between different concrete cutting and wall sawing techniques, how it works and how you benefit from it.

How you can benefit from Concrete Wall Sawing

What is Wall Sawing?

To gain a perception of how you can benefit from concrete wall sawing means knowing the various purposes it serves. Also referred to as ‘track sawing’, it is an effective method of concrete sawing which can be applied to reinforced concrete walls and floors.

This method utilises specialised sawing equipment that is powerful. It is primarily employed in the provision of isolation cuts, generally to a depth of 750 mm with the aim of separating two integral structures.

It is a highly efficient and effective tool that offers easy to assemble components. It has high-quality diamond blades for obtaining the minimum level of friction.

Further benefits are derived from the fact that this concrete wall sawing facility can be set up at practically any location with the assurance of obtaining a precise and even cut without dust and vibration.

How it Works

This type of concrete sawing system requires a highly trained and experienced operator. This operator should be able to assemble a wall saw by connecting it to the concrete or masonry selected for cutting.

Once the determined position is being achieved, the wall saw head will traverse vertically or horizontally to complete its designated task. The diamond saw blade is then joined to the wall saw head mechanism, from which it rotates at a high speed forming the cut.

The material subjected to the concrete sawing process is demolished by the saw blade in small pieces until the determined depth has been reached.

The complete wall sawing procedure is overseen by the operational engineer using remote control. This makes it possible for a safe working environment to be sustained during the operation, without concerns for the structure involved or the equipment.

The Benefits of Concrete Sawing

Concrete sawing has been recognised by established contractors because of its overall efficiency and the cost-effectiveness of the operational system. It offers significant advantages over conventional concrete removal alternatives.

The benefits that can be achieved vary according to the specific project, but they generally include:

A reduction in downtime;
Reduction in noise, dust, and debris;
A determined precision cutting process;
A capacity for cutting of heavily-reinforced concrete;
The ability to maintain structural integrity; and
Limited-access cutting

Applications for Concrete Sawing

Concrete wall sawing is an innovative system that arguably contributes advantages and resultant benefits that have affected dramatic changes within the concrete cutting industry.

Irrespective of whether a job involves cutting conventional materials, inverted or flush-cut; concrete saw cutting with a skilled operation can be utilised in the majority of situations.

Examples of this factor include:

An easily available, specialised method for cutting concrete, masonry, and steel reinforced concrete;
Ideal for the cutting of openings in walls, windows, and doorways, as well as lift-shaft access points and for reducing the heights of walls;
A solution in reduced working space; and
Positioning of pre-determined cuts

Wall Sawing Techniques

The techniques used today by engineers and general contractors among others are those that have been developed since the founding of the concrete cutting and drilling industry in the 1940’s.

Specialised skills and expertise are required from contractors who are capable of providing concrete cutting and sawing services, with recommendations obtainable from the Concrete Sawing & Drilling Association (CSDA).

CSDA is a non-profit trade association founded in 1972. This organisation is composed of contractors, manufacturers, and affiliated members from the concrete construction and renovation industry. Their mission is designed to promote the selection of qualified, professional concrete sawing and drilling contractors, and their methods.

Enlisting a CSDA accredited contractor ensures that the best and most advanced industry techniques and equipment are utilised for the most efficient and cost-effective operation.

The highly skilled operators are fully aware as to which types and sizes of saw blades, drill bits and wires are most suitable for a particular application.

Contractors that are accredited by CSDA have a full understanding of working clearance and disposal, as well as other issues related to a construction site.

Diamond Cutting Techniques

Diamond cutting technique is a particular method employed by concrete wall sawing contractors. This method varies in accordance with the application and specific job site requirements. The primary concrete cutting equipment utilised includes:

A wall (track) saw;
The flat (slab) saw;
A core drill; and
The wire saw

The Wall Sawing Technique

The wall sawing technique calls for a circular blade on a track-mounted machine. This machine is capable of operating on vertical walls, steep inclines, or on floors. It is also suitable in circumstances not suited to flat saws. It involves a round steel core that includes diamond segments attached to the outer side.

The method of diamond wall or track sawing is generally utilised in applications needing precise cutting utilising straight and bevel concrete saw cutting. For example, dimensional window, door and vent openings.

The wall sawing technique is a highly efficient method of concrete cutting, powered by hydraulic, air or electric sources. It is an option that provides a solution for the creation of exact openings in any form of concrete structure.

Flat Sawing Method

This method of concrete cutting known as “flat sawing” is regarded as the most highly utilised diamond cutting method.

It is generally used in the cutting of horizontal flat surfaces, such as flooring, pavement and bridge decks. Flat saws (slab saws) have a diamond blade mounted on a mobile machine that requires only one operator.

Flat saws are popular in the creation of expansion joints or the removal of damaged segments of pavement, as well as in the cleaning and repairing of cracks. They are also used in the segregation of concrete sections designated for demolition.

Similar in design to the diamond wall saw blade, it is mounted vertically on a spindle. This concrete saw cutting machine is moved across a flat surface, with the blade making a vertical cut to a predetermined depth.

Flat saws are usually powered by electric hydraulic sources, gasoline or a diesel engine.

The Core Drilling Option

The need for core drilling arises in the event when exact and circular cuts are being required. This tool enables the easy drilling of holes of virtually any diameter, for openings related to electrical, HVAC and plumbing installations.

In addition, it is found to be very useful in the creation of space for routing cables, anchoring bolts, and in the installation of load carrying devices, such as dowel bars. It is also helpful in obtaining samples of concrete for analysis.

Core drills can be operated vertically or horizontally, and can be powered by electric, hydraulic or air power sources. A core drill bit is comprised of a steel tube with diamond segments brazed or welded by laser, with the core bits mounted on the rotating shaft.

The Wire Saw Technique

The wire saw concrete cutting technique was developed in quarries. This was created to meet the challenges encountered in the operations of extracting stone. It has since been established as a preferred method for removal of dense sections of concrete.

The basis of its operation is a multi-strand cable added to the diamond segments.

It is guided through a sequence of pulleys and continuously through the concrete. Due to the practically unlimited potential of this concrete saw cutting method; wire saws are used in situations where other cutting methods are not viable.

This is an ideal project solution for the removal of bulky and heavily reinforced sections of concrete, such as bridge sections, towers and piers. It is also a valuable and cost-effective asset for concrete cutting, especially in situations where there is restricted work space.

Tips in Hiring a Contractor for Your Concrete Wall Sawing Projects

Concrete wall sawing is a delicate job that requires experience and expertise in the field of concrete cutting or sawing. To be able to achieve desirable results, you will need highly skilled contractors to perform the task.

Here are some tips on how you can find the best concrete wall sawing service provider.

In-depth research

The golden rule for this particular project is to conduct thorough research instead of paying for the negative consequences in the future.

In this respect, your search for a reputable and dependable concrete sawing contractor should begin by contacting friends and business associates. Be sure that these contacts have utilised these services in the past.

You can also search for reliable contractors in reputable online sites and other media outlets.

Below are some options you can look to:

Online reviews

In general, contractors, especially those involved in concrete sawing, supply details of their capabilities and related experience in their websites. Check out these details in their respective online sites.

It is also best to check reviews from satisfied customers and their achievements or portfolios regarding certain past projects.

Doing this enables you to gain insight into their qualifications, including appropriate licensing.

Below are online business directory and review sites that you can start to look onto:

Referrals

Request a list of completed jobs. This will help you determine how familiar the contractor is with your particular type of concrete saw cutting project. Should you be provided with contacts, view their completed work and obtain direct references from the customers.

You may ask the following:

Ask each customer whether the project was completed on time and to their satisfaction.
Were there any unexpected costs incurred?
Did the workers arrive on time and leave the job site clean and tidy?
This can be supported by visiting jobs that are in progress.

Licence and Insurance

Licensing and insurance are essential criteria for any established contractor.

It can extend from a basic registration to a complex qualification process. Therefore, ensure the licence presented by a contractor is current.

Make sure they are appropriately insured for personal liability, property damage coverage, and worker’s compensation.

Experience

As you progress with your research, the experience of a contactor related to concrete saw cutting will to a degree become apparent.

However, in this respect, it could be in your interest to gather information directly, even to the extent of direct questioning and confirming the information provided.

Wisdom before hiring

Before committing to a particular contractor, obtain written estimates from those on your shortlist. However, do not automatically choose the lowest bidder. Instead, request an explanation for any difference in price.

Upon reaching agreement with a selected contractor, ensure a written contract is drawn up.

Why Megasaw is the Best Choice

Equipment, Tools, and Technology

Megasaw have been providing concrete cutting, drilling, and sawing services for over 40 years.

We have gained practical experience in working safely with the most cost-effective methods for cutting, drilling or sawing concrete and other masonry materials.

We are able to provide our customers with the latest in technically advanced cutting equipment, tools, and technology.

Longevity

At Megasaw, we are aware of our responsibility for the future generations and our environment.

This has motivated us in a recycling program that ensures the reusing of as many of our consumables as can be achieved.

In addition, it is our policy to clean up our slurry, to prevent contamination of our waterways.

Customer Service

At Megasaw, we understand that our current and future clients are seeking fast, safe and reliable service at a competitive price. That’s why our fully equipped service vans are regularly maintained to satisfactorily meet our clients’ needs.

This is further supported by our commitment to new technology and equipment in all areas of our expertise.

Expertise

At Megasaw, we dedicate this valuable commodity to our customers, which is derived from tempered experience.

We are an established company, with over 40 years of experience in the concrete cutting and drilling industry.

Our thousands of successful concrete sawing jobs are the proven record of our precision and excellence.

We Get The Job Done!

No job too big or too small

Megasaw25 November 2015Wall Sawing

Tearing Down and Repairing Walls Safely

tearing down a wall using concrete saw

Tearing down any walls within the home is a big job and one that has to be done with safety in mind. There are many different things that have to be considered and careful planning is a must. There may be several different reasons as to why you want to take down a wall, but the most common one is that many individuals like their homes to have the open concept. This means taking down one or two room dividers to achieve this which may involve wall sawing and concrete cutting.

Planning is key

You should give some thought to the overall planning of the wall removal and what your expectations are. Study it carefully to see if it is really going to give you more room, or perhaps your purpose is to create more light and a better flow throughout the home. Try to visualise this space as it will be when it becomes open, and this will give you a better idea of whether you are making the right move in removing the wall. You also want to consider if you are going to use this new space for additional seating. If so, then you need to determine that this is going to flow nicely into the room that the wall was dividing.

The first important step is to determine if the wall that you are going to remove is a load bearing wall. This is critically important because it’s providing support for the structure of different segments of your home. Removing this can be devastating and cause serious damage and even personal injury. If you are not sure whether the wall you’re removing is safe to do so, we highly recommend that you speak to a professional that is well-versed in wall sawing or concrete cutting.

Once it has been determined that the wall can be removed then you are ready to go on to the next step. You may be in for some surprises when you open the wall, as chances are you do not know what exists in the interior of it. You may come across items such as old light switches, a vent, or thermostat for example. We recommend that you use the proper tools for determining what may be within the walls. For example, an AC voltage detector or a voltmeter will help you determine if there is any live wiring that may be in the wall. If you do find there are electrical components within the wall that you are removing, we recommend that you use an electrician to remove these or redirect them. You don’t want to run the risk when wall cutting, or concrete cutting that you cut into these.

Safety steps

Before you begin removing the wall the first thing to do is to make sure you are personally protected and you are using the proper safety gear. Ideally a hard hat and safety goggles are something that we recommend.

You are probably going to want to use a crowbar to remove items such as the trim and the panel so you can get down to the wall structure itself. It is really important to be careful when working up against the adjacent walls that you do not damage them while removing the one wall that you want to get rid of.

Removing the drywall

To break down the drywall, which most walls are comprised of and are also called plasterboard,you can use a hammer or wall saw. Once you have broken down all of the drywall, we suggest that you get rid of this as it begins to build up as it could be a safety factor and you could end up tripping over it.

Once all of the drywall has been removed then you are ready to start working on the studs. You need to be extra cautious here as you will not only need to do some wall sawing, but you will be coming across nails as well. When you are working all along the wall lines you may want to use a reciprocating saw as this will give you better control and allow you to cut a straight line. It is most important that you work carefully when you get to the adjacent structures, otherwise the amount of work that you are going to have to do by way of touch-ups could be quite substantial.

Removing brick or concrete walls

An even greater task can present itself when the wall that you’re going to remove is brick or concrete. The same preparatory work must take place when attempting to remove the concrete wall. Again you need to be sure that it is not a load bearing wall and that you are wearing the proper safety equipment, and using the proper tools for concrete cutting. You want to work from the top down and again use the same clean-up precautions. There are several different tools you should be working with such as pneumatic jackhammers, hammer chisels or you can resort to a sledgehammer and a pry bar and chisels. There is no doubt that this is a big job and takes a fair amount of expertise.

Here at MegaSaw we have the skills and expertise to get this job done for you. Hand sawing is our specialty and we use the latest equipment for tough jobs such as wall sawing and concrete cutting. Rather than take this task on yourself we highly recommend that you hire our professionals to get the job done for you quickly and easily and to your utmost satisfaction. This is going to save you time and most probably money in the long run, and will allow you to get on with the better part of your project which is planning for your new space.