Protecting Passersby During Concrete Cutting and Demolition Work

warning sign on a concrete demolition site

As reliable and established contractors we are always concerned about the wellbeing of our personnel, the environment and the importance of safety to those in the vicinity of any concrete cutting or demolition work. This is achieved by employing qualified artisans and providing adequate training for them before allocating tasks on job sites. A further aspect is that training must be ongoing, with efficient supervision in every project. Our philosophy is that with highly, efficient personnel, greater and more effective focus will be given to the overall protection and personal safety, thereby minimising risks to passersby as well as occupational hazards. It has always been part of our social responsibility to adhere to proper procedures in waste management and the environmental procedures we carry out.

As concrete cutting and demolition contractors, we are regarded as specialists in the art of destruction. Despite the seeming ease of this occupation to a layperson, it is in fact a challenging expertise that requires careful planning, in order to cut concrete and destroy structures with inherent safety for everyone and the environment. By selecting the appropriate cutting and demolition method, we are able to safely demolish a structure, with trained efficiency and the least amount of disruption to communities.

Traditional and other demolition processes

The crane and wrecking ball is recognised as one of the oldest and most commonly used methods for building demolition, or concrete cutting. We are able to isolate a particular section of a structure, for lowering to ground level for further breaking up or transportation to a dump site. Controlled demolition jobs are completed with the maximum of safety and can generally be achieved with standard concrete sawing techniques and equipment. Cutting concrete with a water jet helps to:

  • Minimise the amount of dust in the atmosphere
  • Reduce vibration
  • Clean up the site with the addition of a water-catching system during the jetting procedure

As and when necessary, blasting methods using explosives are employed which use rapidly expanding gases restrained in boreholes, for the purpose of producing controlled fractures in concrete for easy removal of the material. In general, the blasting methods we use are efficient and provide a safe and secure means of removing significant volumes of distressed or deteriorated concrete materials. Because of the inherent dangers in the handling and use of explosives, blasting is regarded as the most dangerous. It is therefore subject to more stringent controls than other methods of demolition.

Safety is the primary consideration

Whatever process of demolition is used, or size of the job, the safety of those working and passersby within the vicinity of the project, is treated as a matter of primary importance. Among the various key considerations taken into account are:

  • Any potential effects to community services
  • Protecting electricity, gas facilities, water and any other services attached to a structure
  • Appropriately capping facilities as and when necessary
  • Electricity or other lines required to help with the demolition process must be approved heavy-duty materials and be kept adequately and safely protected along an obvious and recognised route
  • Within the structure, the movements of people are catered for with designated routes for example: by way of agreed doorways and stairways; or specifically designed walkways
  • The removal of debris is also planned and catered for, with all horizontal and vertical openings completely blocked, for the purpose of protection from the potential of any falling materials

In any type of business operation, it is generally recognised that the question of safety is the first priority, irrespective of it being a concrete cutting and demolition site, or a normal retail outlet. The safety and wellbeing of personnel and passersby within the vicinity are entitled to conduct their everyday lives in a safe environment which means: there is no allowance made by us for even slight errors.

Equipment criteria

The equipment used for concrete cutting, shaping and demolishing are extremely large and powerful and it must be regarded as critical that all persons in their vicinity are provided with the best available safety and protection from any possible occurrences. Therefore, to meet the demands of communities in which we operate and those of our clients, we have established and proven strategies in place for the provision of a safe and environmentally-friendly concrete cutting and demolition work site operation.

We consider it essential that anyone working with concrete cutting, or even remotely associated with any aspect of demolition work, is made aware of the potential health hazards and take the necessary precautions to avoid serious risks to their health. In the case of passersby, we believe in taking every possible precaution to ensure their safety and protect them to the best of our ability.

How to Control Dust by Wet Cutting Concrete

wet blade for cutting concrete

Most of us understand that any type of concrete cutting is generally a job that frequently produces clouds of dust. One factor related to this element and possibly not considered to any great extent by most contractors is; the content of those dust clouds. Concrete has a compound known as crystalline silica, which when injected into the atmosphere can present us with some health-related concerns. It’s a common compound found in various elements such as sand, quartz, flint and slate, but does not become a hazard until it is expelled into the air; for example, when concrete is ground, crushed, or cut with a saw.

The methods by which dust in workplaces is suppressed or controlled include wet drilling and water mist drilling to remove and collect dust. In addition, water sprays are employed when sawing dimension stone, using grinding wheels, core cutting, or wetting waste material, when loading trucks, moving broken rock, dumping or stockpiling. The use of wetting agents with water in selected processes is highlighted, with the use of clear water for sprays and mists and using completely wet processing in crushing operations and screening plants.

Cutting concrete methods

Although it’s usual for concrete to be cut with diamond blades, there are different solutions recommended for cutting concrete in various circumstances. For the purpose of significantly reducing the dust factor, concrete is generally cut using a wet-cutting process. If used with sufficient water for the task, it can not only reduce the presence of dust but also helps to keep the diamond blade cool and extend its lifespan. Furthermore, efficiency is improved, keeping in mind that the wet-cutting concrete process can entail deep cuts resulting in continuous work.

Safety procedures

Some safety regulating authorities recommend three procedures for the control of health-threatening silica exposure when cutting concrete. These include:

  • Wet cutting or the use of a hose for watering the working area
  • The installation of exhaust ventilation
  • Dust collection systems attached to equipment

Saws that are used in the cutting of concrete and powered by compressed air or combustion engines employ wet cutting systems, designed to prevent further contamination from dust. The process can involve water being sprayed onto the rotating disk used for cutting concrete to reduce dust emissions, or from a pressurised tank, supplied from the water mains, or one that is portable.

The portable water option

A portable pressurised tank is supplied by many manufacturers of concrete cutting saws. It’s based on a simple bottle, manufactured from polypropylene, containing a minimum of eight litres of water. The way it works is:

  • By the use of tubing, the bottle is attached to two water jets with the volume dispensed and controlled by a valve, also attached to the container
  • The operation is controlled by the construction worker pressurising the tank and releasing the water
  • The suppression of dust is achieved with a minimum water flow rate of approximately half a litre per minute, but a dispensing rate less than that will ultimately and negatively impact on the overall and effective performance

As part of our responsible work commitment, we appreciate that in cutting concrete and when using wet systems or vacuuming to suppress dust during the cutting process, there are opportunities for mishaps. Accordingly, we ensure our workforce is provided with protective equipment such as masks designed to help prevent unnecessary dust inhalation. As established contractors, the use of concrete saws forms part of our daily work tasks and how we cut concrete is considered a crucial decision. It is influenced by the potential impact it will have:

  • On the health of our workers
  • The overall project quality
  • The aesthetics of the materials we are cutting

The majority of concrete saws, handheld or otherwise, are supplied with a water cutting option, with Tub saws including a water pump and handhelds generally having as standard a connection for a household hose.

Environmentally-friendly

The benefit for our customers and the environment is a reduction in dust pollution and less cleaning required in the surrounding structures, which usually attract dust in the atmosphere. There is also an economic and working efficiency gained from the fact that air filters on the concrete saws do not require changing as frequently, due to the water preventing a higher percentage of dust filtering into the air.

Various comparisons have been made between wet and dry cutting concrete. Using water controls regularly with gas-powered concrete saws has been determined as an effective method of reducing the level of dust for project workers, operators and the environment in general. There have been various studies conducted on comparisons between wet and dry cutting, with some findings indicating that using water helped reduced 85% of dust concentration.

Why Concrete Cutting Solutions Are Key to Earthquake Responses

rescuers on earthquake rubble

Over the centuries, thousands of natural disasters have left their scars on communities. Of the types of disasters, the earthquake remains one of the most destructive, especially in urban areas. As a result, concrete cutting solutions are a core response feature.

There can be no doubt about the degree of destruction caused by an earthquake. This destruction is most evident in urban areas, where buildings, roadways and pavements can be both seriously damaged and completely destroyed.

In Nepal in 2015, over 9,000 people were killed in one of the strongest earthquakes in recent decades, measuring 7.8 magnitude. The capital Kathmandu saw historic pagodas, churches and temples collapse, as well as multi-level office buildings in downtown areas. Secondary effects, like delayed building collapses, were a constant concern.

The 2011 Christchurch earthquake in New Zealand claimed 185 lives, and its impact on structures in the city was severe. The six-storey Canterbury Television building and the four-storey Payne Gould Guinness House were amongst the most prominent buildings to be destroyed – both built using reinforced concrete.

Why are concrete cutting solutions so important?

The only safe way to deal with such urban destruction is to break down and remove the ruins and rubble. Initial efforts are done in the immediate aftermath of the earthquake to improve safety conditions while rescue operations are in full swing. But afterward, the work continues to clear areas to allow reconstruction to begin.

Often, buildings succumb to the impact of an earthquake in the weeks, months and even years, following the disaster requiring concrete cutting solutions as part of controlled demolition strategies. For example, in the period from the 2010 Canterbury earthquake to February 2015, some 1,240 buildings were demolished, including the Hotel Grand Chancellor and the 21-storey PricewaterhouseCoopers building.

But what can concrete cutting services actually do as part of an earthquake response strategy? There are three main tasks concrete cutters are ideally suited to:

1. Creating space to operate In

With the level of destruction that typically follows a strong earthquake, it can be very difficult for rescue teams to access the disaster area. Fallen buildings create mountains of rubble, impeding essential machinery like cranes and diggers from moving to the spots where they are needed. Concrete cutting solutions address such problems, cutting pathways through the debris, allowing passage through. There may also be issues with narrow locations, where the arm of a crane does not have sufficient room to rotate. Cutters can also be used to widen the space by removing segments of ruined walls or floors. Cranes can then fully rotate to lift and safely remove rubble and other debris.

2. Increasing Safety for Rescue Teams

By definition, rubble is never secure. But rescue teams often have to work on top of mounds of broken bricks, concrete slabs, pillars and girders. In some cases, the remaining structures in the devastated area can be dangerously close to total collapse, and semi-collapsed floors high above the rescue operation may teeter on the verge of complete collapse. That means they have to work in conditions that are unsafe. Concrete cutting solutions also address this threat, allowing rescue teams to cut away any hazardous elements on the scene, like the shattered end of a concrete floor. In this way, the area can be stabilised, making it easier for rescue crews to concentrate on the job at hand.

3. Gaining access to survivors

A third reason for having concrete cutters on hand is they can cut through debris to get to trapped survivors. Cutting through this concrete – in a careful and strategically secure way – creates a path for rescue crews to rescue these people and lift them to safety. Where victims are concerned, it allows them to be recovered and returned to their loved ones for burial.

Types of Concrete Cutters used

  • Hand Saws – The most practical concrete cutting saw, and therefore the most essential for concrete cutting solutions, is the hand saw. They can typically cut at depths of around 150 mm – so through floors and walls. Because it is hand-held and highly versatile, it can be used on almost any gradient and in the tightest of corners.
  • Road Saws – Road Saws is part and parcel of any concrete cutting kit dealing with paved walkways, pedestrian bridges and passageways. It is bulky, so is limited in regards to where it can be used. But its power when cutting through asphalt and concrete surfaces makes it ideal for removing damaged sections of roadway, and cutting through suspended concrete slabs.
  • Wire Saws –Concrete wire saws are powerful machines that can cut through massive concrete blocks, successfully separating large sectors of concrete and steel that may be hampering rescue operations. Using a highly effective diamond wire it can cut through thick broken slabs such as those found on modern bridges, or through thick concrete pillars. But it can be used on semi-collapsed buildings too. Perhaps its biggest advantage is that is can be used effectively in confined spaces.

Concrete Cutting Solutions from the experts

Clearly, concrete cutting is a vital service in any emergency response strategy after an earthquake. With the degree of structural damage to buildings, and the tight confines of many locations, concrete cutting saws have genuine uses at the scene. But it’s not something anyone can do.

Here at MegaSaw, we have been providing concrete cutting solutions to clients throughout Melbourne for almost 40 years. We know from our own experience that professional service providers are the only safe option when handling a location covered by rubble and damaged structures.

For more on our concrete cutting services, contact us either via email at info@megasaw.com.au or by calling one of our team at 1300-920-419.

How to Choose Your Professional Concrete Cutter in Melbourne

If you require a concrete cutter some of us may imagine it being a difficult job full of mess and noise, we may think it will be dusty as we imagine drilling down, cutting down, smashing down, knocking down of established concrete followed by the collecting and clearing of the whole mess to get the site ready for whatever is planned for it. We may even visualise burly workmen pounding their huge metal mallets on the wall or pavement, after probably drilling their way to create cracks to facilitate the demolition.

Concrete Cutting

These images don’t have to be a reality. With the proper equipment and skills of trained personnel and technicians, such as what we have at MegaSaw, concrete cutting, including the removal of the debris, can be a much cleaner and efficient job.

The key is in the cutting. Where we would think of cutting or sawing as something that is done only to wood, there are now equipment that can preserve good structurally-sound concrete parts such as walls, pavements and floorings and allow their re-design without destroying these concrete parts altogether.

A Cutting Tool for Every Cutting Job

At MegaSaw we have every type of equipment to do any kind and size of cutting job; a professional competence that we have developed over 40 years of being in business. We have the handsaw which is a most useful concrete saw for projects that larger equipment cannot access such as storage areas and bathrooms. With the handsaw, we can cut windows and doorway spaces without knocking through the wall.

We also have the road or floor saw, used appropriately for cutting through large portions of concrete flooring, pavement or even bridges. We also have several specialist tools for tricky and sensitive jobs that require a depth of cut. Examples of these tools are the ring saw, the wall saw and the wire saw forming part of our latest additions to our cutting-edge equipment.

professional concrete cutting

Higher Cutting Quality

Concrete cutting has thus elevated itself a notch higher in its professional classification. With high-technology cutting, a lot of things can be preserved, even as changes in design are being introduced. Cutting has not only been made high quality; cutting can in fact be assumed to have entered a new field altogether, providing fresh options to work in restorative construction.

Selection of Service Provider

To achieve the best results in concrete cutting, one critical step that must be undertaken is the selection of the professional cutting services provider. The new design concepts may only actually be executed if the cutting is done professionally. In making such a choice for the concrete cutter, the following are suggestions for consideration:

1. Professional competence

The cutting service provider you choose must possess the knowledge, experience and skills needed to execute even the most delicate and difficult design as specified. Included in this consideration is the professional accountability of the provider for the work it performs. Preference should certainly favour the providers who are accredited with the Concrete Sawing and Drilling Association of Australia (CSDAA).

2. Equipment and technology

The provider you choose must have the complete facilities to undertake the project to the finish and must possess the technological knowhow to execute the work with efficiency.

3. Concern for the environment

Choose a cutter who cares for the community where it resides. There are many ways a provider can express its environmentally green credentials and given the materials and processes by which it is involved, it must lead the way in promoting sustainability by pursuing green initiatives that reduce its carbon footprints. If it cares for the environment, it cares for you.

4. Customer service excellence

You need a provider who is available as well as being professional and caring; one whose services are within your reach whenever they are needed. You need a provider who puts you ahead and on top of other interests.

These are just few of the critical factors that can serve to identify the characteristics of the concrete cutting provider that will be suitable for your concrete cutting needs. Cost is not included as a selection factor because in the end, what matters is the quality of the work that is completed. If the work is satisfactory or even exceeds satisfaction, wouldn’t cost be the least important?

MegaSaw and Concrete Cutting

We at MegaSaw would love to know how we can be of service and value to you, not only for your concrete cutting requirements but for your other cutting or sawing needs. We would love to have you contact us on 1300 920 409. Or you may drop us an email at MegaSaw@bigpond.net.au.

How We Maintain Excellence in Our Concrete Cutting Services

Over the years, MegaSaw has become a leading name amongst concrete cutting services, not just here in Melbourne, but across Victoria State and in our neighbouring states. We have worked hard to accomplish this and it certainly has not been an overnight accomplishment. But there are certain aspects to our operation we believe have allowed us to maintain our reputation for excellence in this particular area of expertise.

Today, we are a one-stop shop for concrete-related solutions in construction, demolition, conservation and renovation projects and we count multinational property developers and local authority departments amongst our client base. In fact our range of concrete service expertise includes:

  • Concrete cutting
  • Concrete drilling
  • Concrete sawing
  • Concrete grinding

But being able to do the work well is not enough to earn a reputation for excellence in this business. We believe there are five particular factors that have contributed to it.

1. Professional Personnel

There is no substitute for knowledge, experience, skill and professionalism. In our 40 years in business, we have been lucky to have some of the most skilled and professional people in our team, ensuring the highest level of customer service at all times.

The consistency in quality in both the work we do and the personable, friendly customer interaction we are famed for, is hugely important to use. Maintaining it requires constant vigilance but through these four standards we insist upon ourselves, that job becomes easier.

  • Knowledge – We stay up-to-date with the latest techniques, technology and materials to make sure we are on top of our game
  • Experienced – Our personnel have years of experience in the industry
  • Skilled – We are properly trained in the skills necessary to achieve the best possible results
  • CSDAA Accredited – We are no rogue operators but a recognised leading concrete cutting service provider within the industry and a member of the Concrete Sawing and Drilling Association of Australia (CSDAA). We are completely accountable so you can have total confidence in everything that we do.

2. Modern Equipment using Leading Technology

MegaSaw core drilling service

It’s a pretty obvious observation but the quality of any job done is heavily dependent on the equipment used to do it. At MegaSaw, we always make sure we have the right equipment so that the job is done right and our reputation as leading concrete cutting service providers remains safely intact. It’s the reason why we choose to use Husqvarna cutting equipment as our primary tools because of their reliability, technologically advanced components and greater efficiency levels.

So what are the different types of concrete cutting saws we use on our projects? Well, here’s a breakdown of what we have and how we use it.

Hand saws – Arguably the most used of our collection of saws are these hand-held ones. They are so popular because they are hand-held, they are very portable and can be used effectively in places that larger saws cannot get to. These locations include indoor spaces, like storage areas, laundry rooms and interior bathrooms. They are perfectly suited for cutting windows and doorway spaces in existing concrete walls, slashing the time it would take a construction worker to ‘knock through’ the required space – this is especially important when working to tight deadlines.

Our Husqvarna Hand Saw is petrol powered and cuts to a depth of 150mm. It’s on the cutting edge of saw technology, boasting a built-in automatic filter that lowers fuel consumption without losing power, thereby making it more fuel and cost efficient. They are perfect for cutting a variety of concrete surfaces and items like:

  • Floors and walls
  • Cast concrete
  • Blocks or large segments
  • Kerbstones
  • Pavers

In spaces where ventilation is a problem, we opt for the hydraulic hand saw. This is to remove the fuel fumes that might otherwise build up and make the air unbreathable. These saws have a capability to cut to depths of 210mm.

Road or floor saws – When it comes to cutting through large areas of concrete floor, pavement, roads or even bridges, efficiency is a key issue. We use the latest technology to ensure those efficiency levels – in fuel consumption, time and labour required, and in overall cost – is achieved. Of course, when a floor is in a confined location, then the handsaw is usually the best option, but outdoors, where there is space and ventilation, a more powerful saw works best.

Some of the aspects of our concrete cutting service where a road or floor saw is needed include:

  • Road works
  • Driveway and kerb removal
  • Slab removal
  • Cutting trenches for plumbing and drainage
  • Concrete slab cutting for removal
  • Concrete repairs
  • Loop cutting for boom gates and traffic lights

Once again we use Husqvarna road cutters, a brand that is proven around the world for developing machines that are faster, cleaner and smarter. The powerful modern diesel engines have low emissions and provide fast, efficient sawing. The new, intuitive digital control panel and other smart features help you work more efficiently.

Compact and manoeuverable, these powerful machines can cut to depths of just over 370 mm, and is perfect for the range of floor and road-side projects that we take on regularly. With an advanced fuel-efficient diesel engine, it also has a diesel particle filter that keeps CO2 emissions low.

Ring Saws – Some jobs require more specialist tools and this is where our ring sawing services come in. This technology is an essential part of our overall concrete cutting services, because they are specifically designed to handle tricky concrete and masonry cutting tasks in very tight areas but with a considerable amount of depth required. For example, a ring saw can cut to depths of as much as 270mm, ensuring even thick concrete surfaces can be cut and removed more quickly, and where other materials pose a more difficult task for a hand saw, like:

  • Double brick walls
  • Door and window openings
  • Concrete pipes and manhole covers
  • Cutting in confined spaces

Our Husqvarna ring saw boasts lasting power, resilience and high-end technology to ensure the surest deep cutting available (270mm). Meanwhile, the 355mm abrasive blades that our ring saw uses is ideal not just for cutting through concrete, but also limestone, lava rock, slate rock, shale and sandstone.

Wall Saws – Whether we are working on a commercial project for major property developers, or on a residential project with homeowners looking for major renovations to be made, the challenge of quickly and efficiency cutting into walls is something we have lots of experience in. But while hand saws are sometimes used by our competitors we know that a specialised wall saw is needed, making them important elements in the arsenal of our concrete cutting service.

Wall saws have been developed to ensure precision and efficiency when cutting through a standing wall. This is normally difficult because the face of the concrete is vertical, and keeping a straight line with just your eyes is no easy task. But the Husqvarna wall saw we use is track mounted, allowing it to maintain a straight cut from top to bottom, What is more, the cut can be as deep as 530mm, which means it can make light work of narrow walls.

The wall saw is ideal for making space in solid walls – even reinforced concrete and brick – safely and cleanly, but the versatility of the mount frame means that more than just straight cuts can be achieved. This means it’s highly efficient in achieving:

  • Door openings
  • Window openings
  • Ventilation channels
  • Dovetail cutting
  • Flush cutting

Wire Saws – One of the most recent technological developments in concrete cutting services is the use of the wire saw. Its name might suggest a flimsy machine and in the past it has been associated more with very soft materials like wood. However, advances in wire technology has led to the availability of diamond wire saws which offer all the versatility of a traditional wire cutter but the hardness and cutting efficiency of diamond blades. These wire saws can cut through large, dense concrete blocks and even steel.

As a result, MegaSaw is perfectly equipped to safely cut segments from large concrete constructions or structures, like bridges and pillars. The Husqvarna wire saw we use allow for flexible set ups increasing the number of locations they are practical in.

Concrete block cutting – The uses of concrete slabs and blocks have many uses, not simply to use in the construction of a home or office building. So, it’s understandable that they would need to be cut to suit a particular purpose. At MegaSaw, we have become one of the leading providers of concrete cutting services because of our expertise in every area of the sector, but we cut our teeth in cutting concrete blocks to size. Once again, we trust in the superior design and efficiency of Husqvarna cutting equipment to ensure the highest quality work is completed for all our clients. So, whether you are installing a concrete post fence, a retaining wall, or a large slab, we can cut and shape to the specifications you require.

3. Mobility

MegaSaw van

Getting onsite quickly with all of the necessary equipment on hand is a cornerstone of any efficient concrete cutting services. It does not take a rocket scientist to work that out, but you’d be surprised how many of our competitors place having a fleet of fully-equipped transit vans way down the list.

At MegaSaw, we have a fleet of 10 such vehicles, always fully serviced and ready to go, and always fully stocked with the saw, blades and other equipment needed to get the job done. Though small and manageable, the vans have ample space to load our road saws and wall saws onboard without any hassle, while the available interior space is also carefully managed and maintained to ensure every component has a spare on hand.

Think about it. When has failure to be prepared ever been a wise move? We are never unprepared and it’s a key reason for our clients to stay with us, knowing they can count on us – whatever the job, and every time.

4. Green Solutions

Just like every Australian, we wholeheartedly embrace our responsibility to the environment. And let’s face it, anything to do with construction, demolition and cutting up concrete is not going to be neat and clean by definition. We make every effort to ensure that what we do is done in an eco-friendly way.

We minimise our CO2 emissions. For our hydraulic and air-powered saws, we use compressors that enjoy a high level of fuel efficiency, thereby lowering emissions and the carbon footprint.
We recycle waste materials wherever possible, with metals and concrete segments sent to be recycled. Recycling concrete can make a huge difference to the Australian environment. We reuse materials too – or at least, send them for reuse, like large metal segments in reinforced concrete.

Our stance is pretty simple. A greener tomorrow is a better tomorrow for everyone and we are proud to contribute to a greener and environmentally cleaner Australia.

5. Our Values have Never Changed

We feel this is the biggest reason we have retained our reputation for excellence as a concrete cutting service provider. It’s easy to point to the projects we have competed, especially the large ones working for major national, international and even government clients, but getting there required a set of values in the first place.

Our values have not changed. We started as a local operator and despite our growth, we remain as focused on satisfying the demands of our locally-based clients – be they commercial or residential clients. We are always contactable and always accountable and when it comes to response time, we can confidently say we are unbeatable.

In fact, we are so confident that we encourage all prospective new clients to speak to our former clients and get a full report from them. Just check out the work we have completed.

To find out about any of our range of concrete cutting services, including our concrete removal service, why not speak to Steph at 1300 920 419 or email us info@megasaw.com.au.

5 Reasons You Should Hire Local Professional Concrete Cutters

Concrete surfaces and structures don’t last forever, so the need for skilled and properly qualified concrete cutters is pretty high wherever that popular building material is prominent. But as is the case with almost all trades, a debate rages over whether it is better to hire local professional concrete cutting services or to go to larger companies based further afield.

On the face of it, the obvious answer is to go to the biggest one. The company with the best equipment, biggest budgets and greatest resources, but in fact this is not always the best choice. Hiring locally-based concrete cutters with a proven track record often satisfies the basic criteria best when making such choices.

concrete cutting using hand saw

At MegaSaw, we have always valued our role as local service providers, even though we have grown since first embarking in the sector, to become a leading name much further afield. Why have we retained our local-focus? Because we are so much more than a local concrete cutting service.

5 Reasons you Should Hire Local Professional Concrete Cutters

1. A Good Local Reputation

For any professional operating in a local area, the priority is to build a positive reputation. It’s why every consumer expert advises shopping around. There is also more than one option out there and when it comes to choosing between them, a reputation for things like quality of work, meeting deadlines and even personal skills, can be the deciding factors.

Checking out the reputation of a local professional concrete cutter is pretty easy, with a few different avenues to take (though we would recommend taking them all)

  • Check out their website – competitive, top quality companies have top quality websites.
  • Check with the relevant trade associations – your choice of concrete cutter should be affiliated to an association. For example, MegaSaw is an accredited contractor with the Concrete Sawing and Drilling Association of Australia (CSDAA).
  • Check the company background – contact the local chamber of commerce for any complaints they may have received about the company
  • Seek first-hand recommendations – talking to someone who knows the local operators from first-hand experience is the best thing to do. Their recommendation is gold so, ask friends, family and workmates who have had work done on their concrete driveway or walls.

2. More Affordable

There is a tendency to expect that local professionals – whether they are concrete cutters or another tradesperson – charge higher rates because they are smaller operators. However, this is not always the case. Remember, international and regional companies have bigger budgets and larger teams working on their projects, which means more resources to call upon. Local operators have to compete with that and for that reason, have to be affordable. They have to be highly efficient too, with smaller teams working on individual projects but with experience and high-quality tools ensuring the best job is done. And because there is always more than one competitor in the area, the rates have to be more affordable, the operation has to offer some flexibility and value for money has to be extremely high.

3. On Hand for Emergencies

By definition, local concrete cutters live in the general area, so they are perfectly placed to come to your aid whenever there is an emergency. Most types of damage to concrete take a long time to manifest themselves. For example, chemical damage caused by leaching or the corrosion of metal reinforcement bars can take months or years to show. But there can be sudden damage too, such as cracking caused when a heavy object falls over onto it, or if there is an accident involving a major impact on a concrete surface.

Of course, even when concrete gradually degrades, there comes a time when it’s now or never and immediate attention is required. Perhaps the damage is weakening an overall structure (say, in a wall) or makes everyday living or working impractical. A local professional concrete cutting service provider can get to the site, cut away the damaged area and have everything ready for the offending space to be filled in again. With many providers (such as here at MegaSaw), emergencies can be dealt with overnight if necessary, and a 24-hour turnaround can be guaranteed.

4. Building a Relationship

One of the great advantages with hiring a local concrete cutter is that a positive working relationship can develop. Local operators know the area, know the people and tend to take a genuinely amiable approach to working with clients. And because they are professional, they are not satisfied with delivering anything less than the highest standard quality of work – every time.

From your point of view, it’s a win-win situation. Not only do you get a high quality of work from a professional that you know you can trust, but you are also hiring someone who is close by and can be approached whenever their services are needed.

5. Accredited with Progressive Association

You might wonder how finding a local concrete cutter that is accredited by a national or international body can benefit you. Well, it’s not so much the badge they can show off, but the value that being a member of that association or federation has to the services and expertise they offer. For example, many progressive associations provide

  • Training schemes – so their members’ skills are always up-to-date and relevant
  • Quality ratings – so their members’ quality of work is kept consistently high
  • Best practices guides – so their members adhere to standards in a range of areas
  • OHS advice – so their members’ personnel adhere to safety regulations

What is more, associations often provide a list of recommended service providers in specific states, cities and localities. Here is what the CSDAA does for the concrete cutting sector.

Also, the International Association of Concrete Drillers and Sawers (IACDS) is an umbrella organisation representing professional concrete drilling and cutting service providers in nine countries, including Australia. They list the main advantages of choosing only professional services, whether for large or small contracts.

Concrete Cutting Services from MegaSaw

At MegaSaw, we’ve been providing concrete cutting, drilling and removal services in Melbourne for more than 20 years. Yes, we are one of the most trusted professional concrete cutters in the city, the state of Victoria and beyond, but we retain the same local values that has been the key to our success.

We provide the complete concrete service for Melbourne, using the most advanced concrete cutters, from road saws to hand saws, to ensure the greatest efficiency, both in terms of cost and time. We also include environmentally friendly concrete removal as part of our service, meeting our responsibilities to the environment and ensuring a clean site greets our clients after we’ve left.

If you are interested to learn more about our stone and concrete cutting services, concrete wall sawing services or concrete removal services, please call 1300 920 419 or email info@megasaw.com.au for a quick response within 24 hours.

Which Should You Choose Concrete Cutting or Concrete Drilling?

What is concrete cutting?

man cutting concrete road

Concrete cutting encompasses not only the actual cutting of concrete but also its drilling and removal. For the actual cutting segment of this material, concrete saws are used for this specific job requirement. These saws, based on their modern technology, have greatly replaced the jack hammer in many instances. They have the capability of making precise cuts and leaving a smooth clean finish. They also greatly reduce the dust that comes with concrete cutting.

There are various ways of cutting a concrete. These include slab cutting or sometimes referred to as flat sawing. There is core drilling and wall sawing. There are many different tasks within the construction industry that completely involve concrete cutting. It might be for the purposes of partial removal of a foundation or addition to existing building including residences.

Cutting concrete slabs is another common requirement in any construction job. No matter what the task at hand, it will surely demand the need for the right type of concrete cutting equipment. And this should only be done by an individual who has the training and skills to operate this type of equipment.

What is concrete drilling?

man drilling concrete

Concrete drilling involves digging of a hole in a certain concreted area. These holes are dig for many different purposes. It may be used when something has to be anchored in the concrete, such as large shelving units or other components. It may also be needed for electrical requirements and for mechanical or plumbing purposes.

The equipment used for this job requirement is called a diamond core drill. This has been designed to drill precise holes in a certain piece of concrete. It has the shape of a cylinder that can cut a precise and accurate circular hole. The size of the hole made depends on the drill bit being used and the depth it is required to cut. The drill bit is capable of removing the core of the cement hole being created.

There are different makes and models of diamond core drills. There are also different sizes of bits. Concrete drilling should be carried out with wet or dry concrete drilling techniques. These options will depend upon the job that is being required.

The basic diamond core drill is composed of the following:

  • Motor
  • Spindle connection
  • Locking switch
  • Gearbox
  • Handle

There are also other models of diamond core drill that may have additional compositions which include:

  • Dust extraction
  • Water supply
  • Electronics

The size, make and model of the core drill will depend on the type of job it is required for and how often it will be used. Some confusion will come into play if the layperson is not familiar with concrete drilling and which type of bit to use.

There are two most common types of equipment for concrete drilling. These are the diamond drill bits and the carbide. The type of concrete you are going to work on will determine which type of drilling equipment you are going to use. The depth of the drilling required also matters and whether you are going to be drilling on wet or dry concrete

The proper completion of concrete drilling usually requires that the holes being made are perfectly round. These holes can range anywhere between 1” to 12”. For commercial needs, they could be up to 60” round or even more. They also require the expertise of a highly trained person in the proper drilling of concrete.

There are a lot of judgement calls and selections of concrete drilling equipment to be made. This can be dependent on the project manager if this type of task isn’t present on a constant basis.

Conclusion

Doing any type of concrete cutting or drilling even if it is a small job can sometimes be difficult. It is not a forgiving task and when you make a mistake you simply need to start over again. Cutting too much or too little of the concrete or drilling a hole that is too big or too small can create a lot of extra work to try and fix the error.

The best and sure-fire way to ensure that the concrete is being cut or drilled precisely is to utilise a company that is specialising in this field. You can always find a reliable service provider in Melbourne, Australia such as Megasaw. They can guarantee that your required tasks are going to be done quickly, and effectively both in the requirements and cost. This company is fully capable of doing various types of concrete cutting and drilling projects in Melbourne and the surrounding areas. They highly stand on reliability and performance, which are a much needed aspects in the construction industry.

8 Easy Steps for Cutting, Breaking and Removing Concrete

Cutting and removing concrete would sound like a very formidable task to do. This is true especially with those involving street pavement being broken and demolished to give way to a new concrete pavement. These kinds of construction jobs are usually done by big-time contractors.

But as uncommon as concrete removal may look in the domestic sense, there are actually many household situations where we may find ourselves being confronted by a need to cut and remove concrete. It may be a repair of water or drain leak in your house or yard or a plan to replace the concrete covering in one part of your garden with decorative grasses and plants. In any case, it pays to know what and how to do it, even if you have in mind to hire a contractor to do the job for you.

concrete demolition equipment

Below you will find the basic steps in the concrete cutting and removal job. These steps assume that you already have a clear purpose for the activity and that you have identified the area where cutting is to be made.

1. Prepare the Site

Concrete cutting and removal is difficult if surface is dirty and congested. If there are clutters restricting the movement of workers, ensure that the site is cleared of these barriers to movement. It is also important that items which may be damaged by dust or by chipped concrete fragments during cutting are covered with protective mats or sacks. Check also that the passage way for moving the rubbles is clear when the broken concrete is removed from the site.

2. Ready Your Tools

For most concrete cutting jobs in the home, the following are the most common tools needed:

  • Electric circular saw with diamond or abrasive blade
  • Sledgehammer
  • Jackhammer
  • Large pry bar or a pick
  • Shovel
  • Bolt cutters for wire mesh
  • Demolition saw for rebars

3. Ready Your Safety Equipment

Concrete cutting and removal, by its very nature, is a dirty job as it means rousing dust from its compaction inside the concrete. Add water and you’ll have a mess of the mud that is created. It is also a job involving risks as tiny fragments of concrete may fly at different directions. Hence, you need safety tools and protective gadgets to keep you safe from harm. These include:

  • Chalk for line marking
  • Straight-edge piece of wood for guide
  • Thick gloves
  • Goggles
  • Ear protective gear
  • Dust mask or respirator
  • Steel-toe boots or equivalent work shoes
  • Clothes thick enough to cover you from the elements

4. Lay out the Area

Establish the demarcation enclosure using a straight-edge piece of wood long enough for the purpose. Use coloured chalks in lay-outing and make sure that the line marks are wider and will be readable enough even from a distance.

5. Start the Cutting

Set up your concrete saw to cut at 2 inches (50 mm) blade depth over the guide line. This line cut is for making sure that the edges of the remaining concrete are straight and smooth when the new covering is installed. At the same time, it prepares the line-enclosed area for the subsequent concrete breaking procedure. As the cutting is being done, spray the surface area around the blade with soft sprinkles of water. This is in order to lessen the dust and to prevent the blade from overheating. However, be warned not to sprinkle water on the electric saw. After completing the line cut, if you wish to deepen the cut to 4 inches (100 mm), adjust the blade in the cutting saw and repeat the steps.

6. Breaking the Concrete

After the line cut is completed, position the jackhammer to break the concrete starting from an inside corner of the line-enclosed slab. Put the jackhammer on and let it break the concrete. You don’t need to push down on the jackhammer as its weight and movement are enough to break the concrete. You may need to remove the first few broken pieces out right away to make room for the next pieces to fall off. You will find that after the first piece is broken, the next one comes off so easily.

You may find that the concrete is supported by a wire mesh. You may have to cut these wires using your bolt cutter to free the concrete that is stubbornly attached to these hard metals. Also, most concrete that is subjected to traffic would be reinforced with rebars. In such a case, you may also need to cut these but using a demolition saw.

7. Remove the Concrete Fragments

If the cutting site is inside a garden and you need to protect the plants along the way out onto a hired gravel truck, you would need thick gloves to manually load these concrete pieces into carry-able sacks. For the smaller pieces which would be impractical to pick out one by one, use your shovel to scoop these tiny ones into the sacks. If your hired truck is not yet available, you may arrange the sacks abreast of each other in one area close to the pick-up point.

8. Check the Work Done

If you are not satisfied with the depth of your cutting after the area is initially cleared, you may level the area by using the jackhammer again on protruding and unbroken concrete. Repeat this procedure until you are satisfied.

While it is true that the concrete has been removed after the eighth step, you need to complete your job for your own satisfaction. You are not finished until you have cleaned the site, the power tools and the safety equipment. Restore the items that were displaced temporarily. Remove the protective covering on the plants. Clear the site of dust using damp cloth. Remember not to wet electric-powered tools. Clean the gadgets that are washable with water. When you are done, you are now ready to pack up leaving the site ready for the next activity.

Using Power Tools for Cutting a Concrete Slab

Cutting a concrete slab can be a complex task that requires proper skills and equipment. It isn’t a job where short cuts can be taken. Ideally, it should be done by those who have the proper experience and expertise. Highlighted below are some information and tips in using power tools for cutting a concrete slab.

cutting a concrete slab for road

Tip #1: Choosing the Concrete Cutting Equipment

It all begins with the right tools and accessories. The quickest, easiest and safest tools for this job are power tools that are capable to tackle the job at hand.

The Right Saw

The type of cut you will be making determines which saw to use. If you only need to make small rough cuts, you can do this manually with a sledgehammer and chisel. The much faster and more effective method is to use a circular saw with the right choice of blade.

The Right Concrete Cutting Blades

Quality is the key here. You may find some great prices on some of the blades that can cut through this type of material. You need to determine though, what is the cost per cut. If you are only going to get half the cuts completed before having to replace them, then you are wasting time and money.

Many professionals like to use the diamond blades when cutting a concrete slab. If this isn’t a job you need to do all the time, then you can rent these types of blades. You will likely be charged according to the number of inches used on the blade. Some of the inexpensive blades tend to slow down the cutting process. This is because they only allow for shallow cuts during each pass. With constant use, they can create an odour, fine dust and get really hot. When making the choice to use the diamond blades, you will have to choose the appropriate one.

The dry cutting blades are used when you want to make gradual deeper cuts. The blade won’t heat up, but you will create a lot more dust with a dry cut. You can also choose to use a wet cutting diamond blade. This means you will need to use a saw that is able to distribute the water that the blade needs to operate efficiently. This is a great blade for speed and efficiency as well as in keeping the dust down.

Tip #2: Techniques for Cutting a Concrete Slab

In some areas, there are regulations regarding the depth that you can cut a joint. You need to check this out first. The normal cut is at the minimum ¼ of the thickness of the slab. Keep in mind that the deeper the cut, the bigger the chance of cracking in the control joint. Don’t cut down to the level of the steel reinforcement, which should be in the middle of the slab.

Grooving

You need to determine the best time for making the cut. This is determined by the size of the slab. To help you make a straight cut, draw a chalk line on the concrete slab. Or you can use a 2×4 as your guide. Before the concrete becomes hard, groove the control joints. Use a grooving tool that has a blade capable of cutting through a semi solid concrete.

Tip #3: Proper Placement of Joints

Where you place the joints will depend on the purpose the concrete slab is being used for. Sidewalks do well with joint placement with cuts made the same distance as what the width of the walk is. Large slabs are best done by determining the thickness of the slab then double this in feet.

Tip #4: Cutting Concrete Slabs with a Saw

If you don’t want to take the time to hand groove or the concrete has become too hard for this, you can still complete the job with a saw. The concrete should still look a little damp and dark in colour. You should be able to walk on it. If the concrete slab is fairly small, you can use a heavy duty circular saw, fitted with the proper blade. For larger concrete slab cutting, you may want to use a walk behind concrete saw.

Concrete Cutting

You may be faced with the task of cutting through concrete to get at some faulty plumbing or other repairs needed beneath the concrete. These are normally slab foundations and are far thicker than slabs used for sidewalks and other outdoor venues. For this type of job, you would need to rely on the use of commercial concrete saws.

Other Considerations

Personal safety when cutting a concrete slab using power tools is something that must be made a priority. The proper safety gear must be worn. Keeping the dust under control is another issue. Using power tools with the proper skills to avoid personal injury is a must. You must also be aware of the environment around you when taking on the job of cutting concrete slabs.

Time and money has to be taken into account as well. Purchasing the proper concrete cutting power tools can be expensive. They are not cost-efficient unless they are going to be used on a constant basis. Renting them is equally as expensive and there is the risk of improper use. Make sure that the individual who is going to take on the concrete slab cutting job has the proper skills and training in the use of the power tools.

Looking at a concrete cutting slab job at first appears straightforward. However, there are a lot of potential problems that can arise. If an error is made during the cutting process, correcting them may not be easy. A much better alternative to taking on this job yourself if you are in Melbourne or the surrounding areas would be to bring in the experts like those at MegaSaw.

They have the right equipment for every type of concrete cutting task. They also have the expertise in being able to use the different types of hand saws. These are often needed for hard to get at places or when time is of the essence. Concrete hand sawing requires precision working and takes time to be done properly. You also have to consider the cost factor required for this task. Determine the most cost-effective solution. Will it be either buying this type of equipment yourself and then developing the proper skills to use it or using the alternative of being able to rent such equipment and services from reputable providers like MegaSaw.

How To: Cutting Concrete Blocks

A lot of the times whole concrete blocks will not fit into the place where they are intended to fit. Because of this, you are going to have to cut them down to the appropriate size. There are a few ways in which you can go about cutting these types of blocks. The method that you ultimately choose will likely depend on how smooth or rough you want the cut to be. Also, it is going to largely depend on the type of tools that you happen to have at your disposal. Below we will discuss some of the most frequently used tools for cutting these types of blocks.

Frequently Used Tools:

1. Hammer and Chisel

hammer and chisel

One of the most frequently used tools is the hammer and chisel. In order to utilise this tool effectively, you are going to need to be sure that you have the appropriate safety gear. You will want to wear goggles in order to protect your eyes. You will also need to wear gloves to protect your hands.

Below we will discuss the steps that someone is going to need to take in order to successfully cut concrete blocks with a hammer and chisel.

a.) Mark the layout

The first thing that you are going to have to do is mark the layout of the actual cut that you are going to perform. You will want to make the layout all the way around the actual concrete block by using a straightedge in order to keep the line as straight as possible. You should also use chalk in order to make the line visible enough to see in different lighting conditions.

b.) Safety glasses and gloves

As noted previously, you are going to want to be sure that you have the necessary safety gear. For cutting concrete blocks with a hammer and chisel you will need; gloves, safety glasses and a dust mask to keep dust out of your face and your lungs.

c.) Score the block

You will need to score the blog along the line that you created with the chalk. You will want to do this with the chisel tool, as well as a strong hammer. In order to do it effectively, you need to apply strong and swift blows to the concrete. This will ensure that the concrete is penetrated and that it breaks. You should make a score around 1/8 of an inch deep to start.

d.) Strike

The next thing that you have to do is strike along the actual scored line. You need to use the same chisel and hammer that you used in the previous step. This time, you will need to apply strong and swift hammer blows to the line. If done properly, the block should then break into two different pieces with a rough cut along the line that you had previously scored.

2. Power Saw

power saw

The next tool that you should use is a power saw. This is an excellent tool that is extremely powerful and versatile and you can find at just about any hardware store. If you are in need of efficient, effective, and accurate cuts, this is going to be one of your best options available on the market. Below we will discuss some of the steps that you need to take to ensure that you do it properly.

a.) Choose a circular or power masonry saw

The first thing that you need to do is choose either of the saws mentioned above. You will want to carefully look at each option and consider the pros and cons of each. Consider what you are going to be doing with the saw and what features you care most about. Once you have chosen one, you are then going to want to be sure that you outfit the saw with a masonry or diamond blade according to whichever is appropriate.

3. Safety Materials/Tools

safety gears

The next thing that you are going to need to do in order to ensure that you cut the concrete safely is wear safety glasses, ear protection and a good dust mask. All of these are necessary for the safe operation of a power saw because you are going to have a lot of debris flying around and it is also a very loud machine. These safety essentials are going to help ensure that you do not suffer any type of injury that could have been easily prevented.

a.) Set the measurement

The next thing that you must do is set the measurement of the actual saw blade. This is an important step. This is a step that you must do correctly in order to get an accurate cut. Always figure out how deep you want the cut before actually doing it. You should generally use either 1/4 to 1/2 inch deep of a cut.

b.) Cut around the block

Once you have cut around 1/4 to 1/2 deep, you are then going to want to cut around the entire block. You should adjust your blade so that it will cut 1/4 to 1/2 inch deeper than you previously cut. You will be required to make a number of passes through the block until you have actually cut through the entire block. In this case a power saw will be able to produce a much cleaner and accurate cut than chiseling can produce.

4. Block Splitter

concrete block cutting service

A block splitter is another type of tool that you could use in order to cut concrete. You can use this type of tool if you want a very powerful machine that will get the job done fast. Below we will discuss some of the things that you are going to need to do in order to successfully use this type of tool for block cutting.

a.) Rent or purchase a concrete block splitter

Most people are likely to need to rent this type of tool from their local hardware or tool rental store. This is likely to be the case because these tools are fairly expensive. Therefore, it is not really in your best financial interest to invest in one if it isn’t going to be used frequently.

b.) Place the concrete

The next thing that you are going to want to do is place the concrete in the right location. You will need to ensure that the concrete is placed on the platform that is directly located beneath the actual blade for cutting. This will ensure that the blade will slice into the block when it is cutting. In order to ensure an accurate cut, you need to be sure that the block is placed in the exact location of where you want the cut to be made.

c.) Secure the block

The next step involves securing the actual block in place by spinning the wheel that is used for tightening. You should spin the wheel in a clockwise direction in order to tighten it.

d.) Pull the level

The next step involves pulling the splitting level downward and applying enough pressure on the actual level in order to effectively split the concrete. You will know you did this correctly if the tool effectively splits the concrete. The cut is likely to be very precise in terms of cutting it where it was supposed to be cut. However, the cut is likely to be just as jagged as a cut that is made by hand with a chisel.

In order to effectively get your concrete cut in a professional way, you will likely need to hire the job out to a third party. Cutting concrete is something that takes a lot of power and experience to do effectively. For this reason, you are going to want to hire an experienced team that has access to the latest and greatest tools and machinery. This will ensure that you find someone that is going to be able to really deliver the best possible results on your job.

You will also want to ensure that the job is completed on time. Nothing is worse than hiring a company only to see them miss their deadline. In order to find a reputable company in this industry, you need to ensure that you do the necessary research in order to find one that has a good and solid reputation within the industry. You will also want a company with competitive rates in order to get the job done efficiently.

If you are looking for exceptional block cutting services in Australia, look no further than MegaSaw. MegaSaw is going to be one of the best options for block cutting services in Australia. Below we will discuss exactly why you should consider hiring MegaSaw for your block cutting services.

Why Hire MegaSaw?

1. Best Tools and Machines

By far, the number one reason to hire MegaSaw is because we are a company that invests in the top-of-the-line machinery. Block cutting is all about having the right tools and machinery in order to get the job done. Even the most experienced and best cutters are going to have a hard time producing the results that a good power saw can produce.

2. Experience

Another reason why you are going to want to hire MegaSaw is because we have extensive experience in this industry. In fact, we have been supplying concrete cutting and drilling services for over 40 years.

3. Customer Satisfaction

Another reason to hire MegaSaw is because we take pride in our ability to satisfy every client. We have numerous satisfied clients and customers that have left overwhelmingly positive testimonials on our website. You can check them out for yourself.

4. Pricing

We offer some of the most competitive rates in the entire industry.

5. Deadlines

We know how bad it can be to have a company miss deadlines. We pride ourselves on our ability to hit every single one of our deadlines. We are 100% committed to our customers’ deadlines whenever we accept a job. No matter what, we will complete the job that we take on within the given timeframe.

6. Quick Quote

We also offer a 24-hour turn around on a quote for your specific job.

As you can see, there are plenty of reasons to choose us for your block cutting needs. Not only are we experienced in this field, but we also offer competitive prices and rates. We are 100% committed to our customers and we will strive to ensure their satisfaction. We offer quick quotes so we can get started on your job right away. We also ensure that we will finish the job within a given timeframe. If you are ever in need of concrete cutting or drilling, you know who to call. We will take pride in having you as a customer and we look forward to being able to help you solve your problems.

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