Category: Concrete Cutting

When it comes to cutting, drilling, or sawing concrete, it can be a very tricky job. There can be some serious hazards if you do not take the proper safety precautions beforehand.

Cutting holes into or sawing concrete walls is no exception to this. It is important that you are aware of what potential hazards might occur if you do not protect yourself before you cut holes into concrete walls.

If you would like to learn more about some of the dangers that come with cutting holes or sawing concrete walls, then let’s explore this in more detail below.

The Dangers Of Cutting Holes In Concrete Walls

Safety should be of utmost priority when it comes to any type of concrete cutting job. There are many hazards that can occur with projects such as these that can pose a real danger to your health, safety, and overall well being.

More importantly, a seemingly simple concrete cutting job such as cutting holes in concrete walls can be deceivingly easy. However, safety should not be neglected from a job such as this. Here are a couple of dangers that you may come across if you do not protect yourself in concrete hole cutting jobs:

1). Flying Debris 

Flying debris is something you will encounter in any concrete cutting, sawing, or drilling job. When cutting holes in concrete walls, you may encounter flying debris such as drywall particles or wood shavings. 

Flying debris is very dangerous because it can penetrate the eye and cause serious damage. The dust from cutting may also cause respiratory problems, which is particularly detrimental for individuals that already have existing issues such as asthma. 

As such, it is important that you wear the appropriate personal protective equipment when carrying out this type of job. 

2). Unmaintained Equipment

Maintaining your equipment is very important. If your equipment is faulty, this will not only compromise the integrity of your project but jeopardise your safety as well. 

For example, you must ensure that the drill or saw is kept dry at all times. This is because if the drill is wet and you accidentally hit an electrical wire, you can experience an intense electrical shock. 

Another example is that drills and saws can burn your skin since they become hot after use. Keep the drill away from pets and children and handle it with caution to avoid injuries. 

3). Electrical Hazards

Electrical dangers are a common occurrence when it comes to cutting holes in concrete walls. When cutting holes, make sure to avoid drilling above, below, or near light switches or electrical outlets. Hitting an electrical wire with a metal drill can lead to electrical shocks.

If you plan to drill a hole into a concrete wall of a two-story house, make sure to take extra precautions in avoiding electrical wiring. This is because it can run above, below, or on either side of a light switch or socket.

Some modern homes may have electrical wiring encased in steel plating. To prevent sustaining an electrical shock, make sure that you should check electrical plans if possible or seek advice from an electrician. 

4). Improper Attire

Wearing the right attire is imperative when it comes to cutting holes in concrete walls. Loose clothing or long sleeves can easily get caught in the drill or saw, causing possible injuries to your hands or fingers. Make sure that you are wearing the right attire – that is, anything that is not loose. 

Summary

When cutting holes or sawing into concrete walls, you must make sure to take the necessary safety precautions beforehand. While it may seem like a simple job, there can be potential hazards if you do not protect yourself.

Some of these hazards include sustaining injuries from flying debris, hitting electrical wires, getting clothing caught in the drill, and misusing your equipment. All of these dangers must be considered before you choose to cut or saw holes into your concrete wall.

If you need concrete sawing performed safely and reliably, be it commercial or residential, please call us at MEGASAW. We have over 20 years of experience providing quality concrete cutting services all over Melbourne. Our experience is your guarantee!

Please call us today on 1300 920 419 or contact us through our website.

Did you know that there are actually various methods of non-destructive concrete testing? This may not be known to many people, but non-destructive concrete testing exists – and there are many methods that can be used for this.

If you want to learn more about how non-destructive concrete testing can be done, then please continue to read below to learn more.

The Purpose Of Non-Destructive Concrete Testing

Non-destructive concrete testing is a method of both investigating and evaluating concrete structures. This can be used to estimate the concrete’s strength along with its other properties, to monitor and assess corrosion, to measure the crack size and cover, to assess grout quality, and to detect defects and other vulnerable areas within the concrete.

Most of these non-destructive concrete testing methods are grounded on a scientific basis and could involve various parameters such as materials, environment, mix, and more. 

These tests can also measure other properties of concrete such as its hardness. Interpreting these results can be quite challenging, and are often left for experts to take care of.

Types Of Non-Destructive Concrete Testing

There are numerous techniques used to perform non-destructive concrete testing. Here are just a few of them down below:

1). Penetration Tests

There are various means of penetration tests, but the Windsor probe is generally considered the best. It consists of equipment including a powder-actuated gun or driver, loaded cartridges, hardened alloy probes and a depth gauge to measure the penetration of probes.

It functions by driving a probe into the concrete through a precision powder charge. The depth of the penetration indicates the compressive strength of the concrete.

The manufacturer is in charge of providing calibration charts, but the instrument must be calibrated for the type of concrete and the type and size of the aggregate used.

2). Dynamic Non-Destructive Test

Dynamic tests make use of resonant frequency and mechanical sonic and ultrasonic pulse velocity methods. They are able to evaluate the durability and uniformity of the concrete, while also being able to estimate its elastic and strength properties.

The only technique under this test is known as the ultrasonic pulse velocity method. It measures the time it takes for an ultrasonic pulse to pass through the concrete.

Pulses are generated by shock-exciting piezoelectric crystals where similar crystals are also contained in the receiver. The time it takes for the pulse to pass the concrete is measured by electronic measuring circuits. 

3). Pull-Out Tests

A pull-out test uses a special ram that is used to measure the force that is required to pull a specially shaped steel rod from the concrete. In this process, the concrete is also in tension and in shear. The force that is required to pull out the concrete is also related to its compressive strength.

The pull-out technique can therefore quantitatively measure the in-situ strength of concrete if proper correlations are made. Over a wide range of strengths, pull-out strengths have a coefficient of variation that is comparable to compressive strength. 

4). Rebound Hammer Method

The rebound hammer test is primarily used to estimate the strength of concrete for comparative investigation. It does this by measuring the elastic rebound of concrete.

In essence, it is a surface hardness tester that establishes an empirical correlation between strength and rebound number. The only instrument that can carry out the rebound principle is the Schmidt hammer. It has a spring-controlled hammer mass that, within a tubular housing, slides on a plunger.

The hammer is forced against the concrete surface by the spring. The surface may be horizontal, vertical, or angular, but the instrument must be appropriately calibrated in the position. The distance of the rebound that was created is then measured on a scale. 

Usually, several readings are taken, and they must be both well-distributed and reproducible. 

5). Radioactive Methods

Radioactive methods of concrete testing can help detect the location of reinforcement, measure concrete density, and determine if honeycombing has occurred in concrete units. 

The equipment used for this method is relatively simple and affordable, but the initial price can be high. Concrete that is up to 18 inches thick can be easily examined with radioactive methods.

Summary

Non-destructive concrete testing actually involves many scientific principles and intricacies. It is not an easy job to do, which is why many skilled and specialized experts help handle jobs such as these.

However, there will be situations when you have no choice but to cut or dig up the concrete depending on what tests are being performed and why. If that is the case, then MEGASAW is here to help.

For all concrete cutting needs, be it commercial or residential, call us at MEGASAW. We have over 20 years of experience providing quality concrete services in Melbourne. Our experience is your guarantee!

Please call us today on 1300 920 419 or contact us through our website.

When it comes to drilling or cutting concrete, you may come across a couple of mistakes. These mistakes often come at the expense of your own and others’ safety.

Because of this, it is important that you always come thoroughly prepared before cutting or drilling concrete. Being aware of common mistakes that can occur in projects such as this is an important step towards preparedness and prevention.

If you want to learn more about some common mistakes that occur when cutting or drilling concrete, then please keep reading as we explore this in more detail below.

1). Assuming All Concrete Is The Same

Assuming that all concrete is the same is one of the most common mistakes when it comes to concrete cutting or drilling. It is important to remember that concrete is a mixture of various additives that can affect its strength, density, and other characteristics.

Because there are different mixtures used for, say, a concrete foundation than what there is for concrete driveways, it is important that you do not treat these concrete types the same way. 

This means that you will need to pick appropriate equipment and apply appropriate pressure when cutting concrete. For example, thick concrete may need a rotary hammer to break it up, while a masonry drill can be more suitable for softer concrete

As mentioned, adjusting the pressure of the concrete cut is also important. This is because if you do not adjust the pressure you apply when cutting concrete, this can lead to defects such as cracks. 

2). Not Knowing What Lies Beneath The Concrete

This particular mistake can be particularly detrimental for your safety and your coworkers’ safety. For example, if you cut through a concrete wall in a hoe, there could be materials such as plumbing pipes or electrical wires underneath.

Accidentally cutting materials such as pipes or wires can lead to some serious injuries or structural damage to the property. Therefore, it is important to check the property’s blueprints so that you can avoid unnecessary damage.

It is also important to discover if there is rebar beneath the concrete. Rebar is commonly used to strengthen the concrete. As such, you will need different tools like a diamond drill or saw to cut through rebar. 

3). Not Changing Equipment When Handling Different Materials

Using the right equipment is vital when you are handling different materials. For example, masonry bits and blades should only be used to cut concrete, not tiles or asphalt. 

Therefore, if the concrete cutting job has an element of cutting other materials simultaneously, then do not assume that your equipment can cut through concrete and the other material as well. 

Make sure that you change your blades and bits to prevent damage from harder materials and avoid cracked or broken tiles, woods, tempered glass, etc.

4). Not Using Water Properly

Water is actually an important part of concrete cutting jobs because a lot of dust is often created. However, when using water, make sure you do not pour a long stream over your cutting or drilling area. This is because it can create a mess, which can be disruptive for the cutting process.

Rather, pour just enough water so that the dust can be gently rinsed away. Make sure to keep the work area clear. Stop cutting or drilling concrete if you do not see a chalk line or drill bit as you work and wash the area away. Make sure to adjust the water you use accordingly as you work.

Final Thoughts

Concrete cutting can be considered a risky job. There are a lot of potential hazards that can occur if you do not take the proper precautions and preventive measures beforehand.

Therefore, it is important to be aware of what can go wrong if you do not prepare yourself for any type of concrete cutting job. With this quick guide, we hope to have helped in advising you on what you should avoid when cutting concrete.

For all concrete cutting needs, be it commercial or residential, call us at MEGASAW. We have over 20 years of experience providing quality concrete services in Melbourne. Our experience is your guarantee!

Please call us today on 1300 920 419 or contact us through our website.

Have you ever wondered if you can cut reinforced concrete slabs? Or better yet, have you ever wondered what reinforced concrete even is?

Reinforced concrete consists of a matrix that is composed of bars, wires, strands, and other materials that help provide additional strength for concrete. However, because it is composed of these additional parts, many people often wonder if continuous reinforcement can be cut. 

If you’ve had these questions in your head, then we’re here to talk all about it! If you want to learn more about what reinforced concrete is and if they can even be cut, then please keep reading below to learn more. 

What Is Reinforced Concrete?

First, let’s discuss what reinforced concrete actually is. Reinforced concrete is concrete that has embedded steel bars or welded wire fabric when the concrete is freshly made. You can often find reinforced concrete used on construction projects.

As previously mentioned, the main purpose of reinforcing concrete is to provide additional strength for points in concrete where it is needed. The steel helps provide tensile strength where the concrete is in tension like in slabs or beams. 

Steel also helps provide compressive strength for concrete columns and walls. It can also provide extra shear strength over and above concrete beams. 

So, while reinforced concrete may be embedded with rebar and other components such as steel wire meshes, it is not impossible to cut. You just need the right tools and the right professionals alongside you. 

Cutting Reinforced Concrete

In terms of cutting reinforced concrete, there are specialised tools that you can use. The most common tools to use are diamond blades or a concrete wet cutter, which are both known to be quite efficient and effective at cutting concrete. 

Diamond blades, in particular, are specifically designed to cut through the hardest materials, which is why they are compatible with cutting reinforced concrete.

Situations, where you find yourself needing to cut reinforced concrete, can be for either repair or replacement purposes. 

Here are a few types of sawing that can be performed for cutting reinforced concrete:

1). Diamond Wall Sawing

Diamond wall saws can be used to cut off or reduce sections of reinforced concrete walls if you plan to form doors, escalators, or lift shaft openings. Because it is both lightweight and has easily transportable components, it can be used for multi-storey buildings on walls or floors that are up to 700 mm in depth.

Diamond wall saws also have flush cutting capabilities, meaning that they can cut tight, parallel walls or floors quite easily. 

2). Diesel Powered Floor Sawing

With diesel-powered floor sawing, you will be able to cut reinforced concrete (or even asphalt) with clean and straight cuts that are up to 500 mm in depth. 

This method of floor sawing can cut per linear metre to separate or straighten rough areas of concrete slabs. It may also be used to cut the perimeter of openings and the internal area into sections, which can then be lifted out and removed. 

Expansion joints can also be formed in new concrete floors, with cuts that can have widths of 3 mm to 20 mm.

3). Powered Floor Sawing

This method of sawing makes use of powerful electrical floor saws. These saws are primarily used for internal cutting works. 

Powered floor sawing is ideal for protected spaces such as hospitals, chemical or food production facilities, or populated areas such as offices or shopping centres. 

Who Can Cut Reinforced Concrete?

While it is possible for you to handle minor cutting jobs, it is always best to leave major concrete cutting jobs such as reinforced concrete cutting to the professionals.

This is attributed to a variety of reasons, the main ones being that they have both the expertise and skill of cutting all kinds of concrete.

Professionals also have knowledge of what types of tools and equipment are best for both cutting reinforced concrete itself and the type of cut you are looking for.

As such, it is always important to leave major jobs such as this to the professionals to avoid dangers, hazards, and unwanted consequences in the future. 

Final Thoughts

Cutting reinforced concrete is considered a major job but it is not impossible. There are various methods and tools that can be used in order to fulfil this job.

However, it is always best to seek a professional service to cut reinforced concrete for you. If you need a concrete cutting service, please call us today at MEGASAW.

We have over 20 years of experience providing quality concrete cutting services all over Melbourne. Our experience is your guarantee!

Please call us today on 1300 920 419 or leave an inquiry.

Concrete cracks are a relatively normal occurrence; however, they are quite preventable. There are various steps that you can take in the very beginning to prevent any unsightly concrete cracks from occurring in the future.

If you want to learn more about how to prevent concrete from cracking, then please keep on reading below. 

Why Does Concrete Crack?

It is important to understand why concrete cracks in the first place. 

Concrete can crack due to a number of reasons. A common reason is known as drying shrinkage. When concrete is in its plastic state, it is also at its largest volume. Once the concrete starts to set and harden, it begins to shrink. On average, concrete can shrink ⅛ inch for every twenty feet.

Concrete has both compressive strength and lower tensile strength. If the internal tensile stresses become greater than the tensile strength then a crack may develop.

Excess water in the concrete mix can also increase the chances of cracking. This is because it can evaporate from the concrete and increase the probability of shrinkage. 

Poor subgrade preparation can also lead to concrete cracks. It is important that the subgrade is smooth, uniform, and has positive drainage. A smooth subgrade can reduce restraints once the concrete shrinks, hence reducing the chances of cracking.

Improper curing is another crucial reason why concrete cracks. Curing maintains concrete moisture by preventing rapid loss. If concrete loses moisture, it will shrink faster, causing what is called map cracking. 

While map cracking does not affect the concrete’s structural integrity, it can affect the concrete’s aesthetics. Lack of curing is especially dangerous for concrete cracking. As such, it is important to actively cure concrete beforehand to prevent defects such as map cracking and scaling.

Preventing Concrete Cracks

There are many steps you can take to avoid your newly poured concrete from cracking. Here are just a few of them:

1). Properly Cure The Concrete

Concrete takes 28 days to completely cure, and so the steps you take in the first few days are crucial for a strong and crack-free concrete surface.

Cement cures slowly and needs moisture retention to be strong. Concrete will be less likely to crack if the moisture slowly evaporates. As such it is important to spray the concrete with water a few times each for the first week. This is because the hotter and drier the weather, the faster moisture can evaporate and the more likely you will get cracks.

2). Introduce Control Joints

Curing is an important precaution, but even large slabs can crack due to shrinkage from temperature changes and water used in the hydration process.

The natural movement of the soil underneath the concrete can make the concrete slabs crack. With control joints, you can create intentional weak spots cut into the slab. 

Control joints are made by cutting a quarter of the concrete slab’s depth to anticipate the possibility of future cracks. Essentially, introducing control joints is to gamble on the odds that cracks can happen in these weak parts.

3). Mix In The Right Amount Of Water

Adding too much water is a common mistake when it comes to concrete mixing. This can lead to weak concrete and higher chances of cracking.

Therefore, to avoid cracking ensure that you add in the right amount of water. Wet concrete should be thoroughly saturated but not watery. Make sure to read the manufacturer’s instructions carefully before mixing concrete. 

4). Compact The Base

Before pouring your concrete, it is important that the base you pour it on is compact. If the base beneath the concrete is not compact, it can settle and create a void underneath the concrete slab. This, of course, can lead to cracking.

Gravel is usually the best type of fill. Try not to dig out more soil that is necessary. You should lay out a few inches of gravel and ensure that you do not dig too far into the soil before laying it out. 

5). Add Steel Reinforcements

Concrete can be stronger when you add steel reinforcements. If you are constructing patios or footpaths, you can add rebar in a grid pattern that has bars two feet apart from each other and sitting halfway through the slab. 

There are also alternatives to rebar or wire mesh depending on your concrete project. However, make sure that the reinforcing material you are using is located in the centre of the concrete, or ensure that it is not visible once the project is complete.

Summary

There are several reasons why concrete will be prone to cracking; however, these reasons are easily avoidable as long as you take the proper steps. 

When it comes to concrete cutting, if you need concrete cutting performed safely and reliably, be it commercial or residential, please call us at MEGASAW.

We have over 20 years of experience providing quality concrete cutting services all over Melbourne. Our experience is your guarantee!

Please call us today on 1300 920 419 or leave an inquiry.

Have you ever wondered how tree roots can be removed from concrete? It is not uncommon for tree roots to grow under concrete. This is particularly common for footpaths or trees growing in concrete plazas.

However, there are different ways that tree roots can be cut out from concrete. This is done to prevent any further damage they may be causing to the concrete. 

If you want to learn more about how to treat tree roots under concrete footpaths, then please keep on reading.

Tree Root Invasions

As previously mentioned, it is not uncommon for tree roots to grow under concrete. While tree roots rarely cause major damage to foundations, they can create other signs of damage. These include:

• Cracks in the foundations of your floor. 
• Vertical cracks in the foundations of your wall.
• Cracked or shattered windows. Often, there is no other evidence of trauma.
• Uneven window and door frames.
• Buckling on the surface of your floor.

Other factors such as erosion of soil under your home are also particularly noticeable. Tree roots can even reach your plumbing by slowing the flow of the drains or worse still,  completely clogging them up. This can create changes in the water pressure and overall damage to your underground pipes.

Tree roots affecting footpaths is another common problem. This can cause problems such as creating cracks or bumps across the concrete and buckling in the concrete’s surface, creating safety hazards for pedestrians. 

Because of this, concrete cutting is an important job to help remedy these various issues. In fact, there is actually more than one option when it comes to cutting out a root that is under concrete.

Treating Roots Under Concrete

There are different ways of treating concrete embedded tree roots depending on what the issue is. Particularly for footpath issues, there are various techniques you can perform.

One technique is known as shaving. Tree roots are capable of lifting concrete slabs. To remedy this, you can shave down the slabs multiple times until the sidewalk thickness cannot support the weight of pedestrians. This is an inexpensive technique and is commonly used first to even out buckled and cracked footpaths. 

Another method of shaving is by using asphalt to level the uneven sections of the footpath. However, using asphalt on a concrete footpath is not very aesthetic.

Slabjacking is also another method to consider. This involves putting concrete under high pressure so that the lower side of a lifted slab causes the slab to lift upward and become level with the lifted section of the adjacent slab. 

Placing the footpath over a geogrid and gravel base is an alternative as well. This is done by placing a geogrid mesh on top of the roots then covering it with gravel and finally pouring concrete on top. This method has become particularly popular and common in recent years.

Similarly, using reinforced concrete is another way to treat trees under concrete. This is done by using rebar or wire mesh before re-pouring concrete slabs. 

Using thicker concrete, particularly 4 to 6 inches, is also common to ensure that the footpath does not break or lift. For best results, this is used in conjunction with the reinforced concrete method as previously shared above. 

It is important to note that while there are options to cut the roots of the trees, this is often not encouraged unless you plan to remove the whole tree itself. This is because cutting out the roots will render the tree unstable and prone to causing more harm than good in the long run. 

As such, other methods as discussed here are more recommended to perform if ever a tree encroaches on concrete.

Summary

There are various methods and techniques you can perform for tree roots that are embedded under concrete footpaths. Most of these techniques involve levelling off uneven concrete slabs or simply reinforcing it with layers and thicker concrete.

Generally, it is not recommended to cut tree roots since this will make the tree unstable and potentially cause further hazards in the future.

As such, it is important to consult with a skilled and experienced professional who will be able to provide advice on how to fix concrete sidewalks affected by tree roots.

If you need concrete sawing performed safely and reliably, be it commercial or residential, please call us at MEGASAW.

We have over 20 years of experience providing quality concrete cutting services all over Melbourne. Our experience is your guarantee!

Please call us today on 1300 920 419 or leave an inquiry.

Is this your first time needing to cut a concrete wall? Well, just as there are certain precautions you must take with cutting concrete in general, there are also precautions you must take before sawing a concrete wall.

Sawing a concrete wall can be quite dangerous. As such, it is important that you are well equipped with the knowledge, skills, and tools to safely carry out the job. 

If you want to learn more about cutting a concrete wall, then please keep on reading below as we explore the topic further.

The Do’s Of Concrete Wall Sawing

Concrete wall sawing is a pretty tough job. It requires specific tools, particularly concrete wall saws or track saws, to get the job done.

However, aside from obtaining and maintaining these tools, there are also safety guidelines that come with concrete wall sawing. Here are some do’s to keep in mind:

• Do make sure to choose the proper tools for concrete wall sawing. Cutting corners is considered a disadvantage in wall sawing because it can be hard to prevent overcutting with round blades. As such, you should also consider other tools if aesthetics is considered a priority. 
• Do make sure to inspect the diamond blades before beginning the project. It is important that your tools are in good condition before they are put to use. 
• Do wear personal protective equipment (PPE) such as goggles, rubber boots, ear protection, gloves, and more. Some projects may also require you to wear a respirator for breathing protection purposes.
• Do ensure that you follow the recommended blade diameter and specifications before cutting the material. The larger your diamond blade is, the slower you should be moving it. You may follow the guidelines in the manufacturer’s operating manual to choose the right blade diameter, operating speed, etc.
• Do check to see if the water flow is continuous on both sides of the diamond blade.
• Do ensure that the blade guard is securely in place especially during operation.
• For dry cutting, do run the blade free for about 30-40 seconds to help prevent it from overheating.
• Do check the pulleys for signs of excessive wear. Make sure that the V-belts are also properly tensioned. Using worn-out pulleys and improper belt tensions can cause discrepancies in operating speed, reducing the overall efficiency of the diamond blades.
• Do perform a periodic and regular examination of the blades for cracks or signs of excessive wear. The steel centre and its segments may be prone to cracking and wearing out from underneath. 

The Don’ts of Concrete Wall Sawing

While there are do’s that you must take into consideration with concrete wall sawing, there are also dont’s. Here are a few of them:

• Don’t operate sawing equipment if you are not properly skilled or trained to do so. Concrete sawing requires the use of heavy equipment that should not be operated without the proper and safe lifting technique. 
• Don’t use a diamond blade that has any signs of damage or missing segments. Make sure the blade is sharp enough and that the guard is secure.
• Don’t use diesel or gasoline-powered equipment to perform concrete sawing in areas that do not have proper ventilation. 
• Don’t make a deep cut in the first pass. Make sure to begin concrete cutting with an up-cut.
• Don’t forget to use a safety mask when dry cutting and wall drilling. Drill bits can create large amounts of dust and debris that can harm your eyes and damage your lungs.
• Don’t perform dry concrete cutting methods with blades that are exclusively designed for wet concrete cutting operations.
• Don’t choose the wrong diamond blade for the material to be cut. The wrong selection of the blade can cause serious damage to the blade and machine. This can create repercussions to site safety conditions.

Summary

It is clear that there are many things to consider before cutting a concrete wall. While there are do’s such as ensuring you are wearing the proper attire and regularly inspecting your cutting equipment, there are also don’ts such as not using the wrong blade and not operating cutting equipment if you are not trained or skilled to do so.

Before cutting concrete, make sure that you follow all the important points in this article. This is not only to ensure your own safety but the safety of your fellow workers as well. 

If you need concrete sawing performed safely and reliably, be it commercial or residential, please call us at MEGASAW.

We have over 20 years of experience providing quality concrete cutting services all over Melbourne. Our experience is your guarantee!

Please call us today on 1300 920 419 or leave an inquiry.

Concrete cracks are fairly common. In fact, sometimes they are even considered inevitable occurrences. Concrete cracks are so common that they have actually been classified into 6 common types. If you would like to learn more about this, then please keep on reading below!

1). Plastic Shrinkage Concrete Cracks

The plastic state of concrete is the state before it hardens. In this state, it is still full of water. However, when the water evaporates, it can leave behind large voids between the solid particles. These empty spaces are weak spots of concrete that are prone to cracking. 

Plastic shrinkage cracks can happen on concrete slabs or walls, but they often happen at the reentrant corners, or corners that point into the slab. They also occur in the middle of circular objects such as pipes, plumbing fixtures, drains or manholes. 

Plastic shrinkage cracks are also very narrow and barely visible. However, the cracks do not only exist on the surface. Rather, they can extend throughout the thickness of the concrete slab.

Control joints may be introduced into the concrete slab in order to prevent plastic shrinkage concrete cracks. 

2). Expansion Concrete Cracks

Expansion concrete cracks are caused by heat. When heat expands the concrete, it can push outwards against anything, and the expanding force can lead to concrete cracks. This is where concrete cutting comes into the equation.

Expansion joints are commonly cut into the concrete as a point of separation between static surfaces. They primarily act as shock absorbers to help relieve the stress that the expansion force may exert on the concrete. This can ultimately help prevent cracking. 

3). Heaving Concrete Cracks

Heaving concrete cracks occurs when the ground freezes and lifts up a couple of inches before thawing and settling down. The ground movement caused by freezing and thawing can result in concrete cracks. If the slab cannot move with the ground, it will crack.

Tree roots also exhibit the same effect on concrete. If a tree root is located in close proximity to a concrete slab, it can lift it and cause it to crack. Hence, this is something to consider before laying out concrete slabs.

4). Settling Concrete Cracks

Settling concrete cracks occurs when the ground settles beneath a concrete slab. This happens when a void is created in the ground underneath the concrete surface. This is more prone to occur if the soil underneath is not compact enough or if tree roots decompose. 

All of these things can lead to concrete cracks, especially if the base or ground where the concrete slab will be placed is unstable, not compacted and unprepared.  

5). Cracks Caused By Overloading The Slab 

Even though concrete is a strong material, it too has its own limits. Concrete cracks can also occur if the concrete slab is overloaded. 

Different concrete mixes specify that they have different strengths. While overloading concrete slabs is not super common, what is more important is the issue of excess overload on the ground beneath the slab. 

Excessive weight on the slab, especially after heavy rain, can press down on the slab and cause it to crack. This is common for homeowners that place large recreational vehicles or a dumpster on their driveway. 

6). Cracks Caused By Premature Drying

There are actually two types of cracks that are caused by premature drying.

The first type of crack is called crazing cracks. They are fine surface cracks that sort of looks like spider webs or cracked glass. Crazing cracks occur if the surface of the concrete slab loses moisture too rapidly. They are not usually a concern for structural issues, though.

The other type of crack is called a crusting crack. They often occur during the concrete stamping process where textures or patterns are added to concrete surfaces. If the top of the slab dries quicker than the bottom on, say, a windy day, then this can cause crusting cracks.

Once the stamp is applied, it can pull apart the surface near the stamped areas and cause small cracks around the outside edges. Similar to crazing cracks, crusting cracks are not a point of structural concern. 

Summary

While there are many types of different cracks in concrete, it may be hard to pinpoint exactly which type of concrete crack it is. It is important to consult with an experienced professional who will not only be able to identify what crack you are dealing with but to help suggest solutions by which these cracks can be remedied. 

If you need concrete sawing performed safely and reliably, be it commercial or residential, please call us at MEGASAW.

We have over 20 years of experience providing quality concrete cutting services all over Melbourne. Our experience is your guarantee!

Please call us today on 1300 920 419 or leave an inquiry.

Cutting concrete slabs can be a very arduous job. Aside from making sure you have all the necessary tools and equipment, it is important to make sure that all safety precautions are in place before cutting concrete.

One safety precaution you must always take before concrete cutting is to consult with a structural engineer. Structural engineers will be able to help assist your construction project and ensure there are no hazards or errors in the process.

Since concrete cutting can be a dangerous job, talking to an engineer beforehand is imperative. If you want to learn more about why you should consult with an engineer before cutting a concrete slab, please keep on reading below.

Services Provided By Engineers

Engineers, especially structural engineers, are trained to have vast knowledge and skill sets that can be applied to anything manufacturing and construction-related. Some functions and services of an engineer include:

• Studying project reports
• Preparing or designing structural drawings and designs
• Supervising construction work progress
• Giving advice on repairs, maintenance, or alterations of existing structures
• Assess factors that can affect the integrity of a structure

While these functions are generally applicable to various construction disciplines, this is most especially applicable for concrete cutting.

Structural engineers can consult on various construction situations. For example, they can help advise on renovations that involve building additions, door or window modifications, loft conversions, retaining, removing, or altering walls, and many more.

They can also conduct structural damage inspections. Structural engineers can help identify issues and how to resolve them. Some indications of structural damage may include cracked walls, sagging ceilings, uneven floors, window cracks, and more

These construction issues are indications of structural damage and are also just a few of the reasons why concrete cutting will actually need to be carried out. As such, consulting an engineer is recommended if you want to obtain a professional opinion on how to safely carry out these concrete cutting procedures. 

Risk Management Made Easy With Engineers

One of the primary services that engineers may offer you, however, is risk management. Concrete cutting certainly carries its fair share of risks.

While there are various associated risks with concrete cutting, one of the main risks of concrete cutting can be accidentally cutting unforeseen obstructions This, in turn, can lead to some serious damage safety-wise, resource-wise, and finance-wise.

As such, engineers can help provide advice on how to avoid these kinds of risks. They may suggest solutions such as conducting a concrete scanning test to help detect any unforeseen obstructions embedded in the concrete.

Other Benefits Of Involving An Engineer

Aside from the main benefit of increased risk management, engineers can help your construction project in many ways. 

One of them is to help you avoid unnecessary costs. If you are cutting concrete and you accidentally cause structural damage, this can lead to some serious repercussions cost-wise and resource-wise. Engineers will be able to foresee these events and help you prevent them from happening.

Engineers can also ensure that you do not have to start from scratch. They can help advise you on which areas are safe for concrete cutting or if there should be any modifications to your concrete cutting plan.

Most importantly, engineers will ensure that you are cutting concrete within the proper laws, regulations and rules. This is especially due to the requirements of the Australian Standards and Building Code of Australia. 

So, while engineers can help prevent detrimental risks from occurring, they are capable of providing advice on how to avoid long-term consequences from happening. Therefore, consulting an engineer before cutting a concrete slab is more than necessary.

Summary

Consulting an engineer before cutting concrete is an imperative procedure that you must perform. Engineers are trained and skilled to have widely developed skills to help give you the best advice for your project. 

Moreover, engineers can help anticipate risks and provide solutions to avoid them. This is important because these risks can compromise workplace safety, finances, and resources. 

However, engineers can also provide many more benefits for your concrete cutting project. Seeking their advice can help ensure that your project goes well and does not suffer any long-term damage. 

If you need concrete sawing performed safely and reliably, be it commercial or residential, please call us at MEGASAW.

We have over 20 years of experience providing quality concrete cutting services all over Melbourne. Our experience is your guarantee!

Please call us today on 1300 920 419 or leave an inquiry.

Concrete cutting is not only a strenuous and messy job but a dangerous one too. There are many hazards that accompany concrete sawing.

However, the difficult part is that these hazards can often be overlooked. As such, it is important to take all the necessary precautions before cutting concrete. 

If you want to learn more about what features of concrete sawing in Melbourne can be dangerous, and how to minimise the risks, then please keep on reading.

Inhaling Crystalline Silica

Concrete contains a compound that is known as crystalline silica. It is also commonly found in materials such as sand, quartz, slate, and flint. When this compound makes contact with air, it can become a very dangerous health concern. 

Airborne crystalline silica can put workers at risk of developing silicosis, which is a lung disease caused by the accumulation of silica dust inside the lungs.

It causes the formation of scar tissues which negatively affects the lung’s capacity to take in oxygen. 

Wearing the proper personal protective equipment (PPE) such as filter masks is especially important when it comes to cutting concrete. Using a wet cutting method can also help control the dust and silica that may fly through the air as you cut concrete.

Push-Back, Kick-back, or Pull-In

These words sound like a mouthful, but they can be very dangerous forces that come with cutting concrete.

Kick-backs happen when the saw thrusts up and backward, push-backs happen when the saw thrusts right back, and pull-in happens when the saw pulls the worker towards the blade. 

Depending on cut depths, these forces can lead to serious injuries especially when you use quick cut concrete saws and hand-held saws.

They can also wrench the saw from its fittings, which makes it freely run on the ground. This can be quite dangerous for anyone who stands in its path.

With this in mind, make sure to pay attention to the rotation angle of your saw. Stay away from this angle when cutting. Try not to use a cutting tool on ladders or cutting concrete on different elevations. 

Uneven Or Wet Surfaces

Uneven or wet surfaces can heighten the risk of falling over mid-cut. This can lead to injuries for both yourself and for others.

It may also compromise the quality of the concrete cut and increase the risk of kick-back as previously discussed. As such, make sure you check the concrete surface for this hazard before cutting it.

Worn And Damaged Saw Blades

When cutting concrete, it is imperative that the equipment you use is in top condition. When operating with defective blades, this can lead the blade to wobble and shatter, dispersing fragments through the air.

It is important to maintain your blade and make sure it is not overexerting its force capacities. 

Electricity

Electricity can be a common hazard when it comes to concrete cutting. When managing electric equipment, make sure that everything is properly grounded and insulated. Do not use electric equipment when you are using a wet cutting method.

Toxic Fumes

Toxic fumes are particularly harmful especially if ventilation is not maximised. They can arise from gas motor emissions that contain harmful gases such as carbon monoxide.

This odourless and colourless gas can lead to asphyxiation, which is a serious health condition. Make sure to wear the proper filter particulate respirators since they can protect you from dust, fibres, lead fumes, asbestos, and silica.

Cutting Unseen Objects

Sometimes, there may be unforeseen objects embedded in the concrete that can cause serious danger when cut. Some of these may include electric cables and gas or water pipes.

As such, make sure to conduct precautionary measures such as concrete scanning before cutting concrete. Cutting foreign objects may not only damage the construction project but put you and your coworkers at risk.

Final Thoughts

While there are serious hazards that can be associated with concrete cutting, all of these are very avoidable.

Some precautions you can take are to simply wear the proper PPE, properly maintain your cutting equipment, and prep the area to be cut by removing objects that can cause injuries.

The importance of preparing for these hazards are often overseen. However, they are completely necessary not only for a successful construction project but most importantly for a safe working environment.

As such, always make sure you follow the right precautions before performing any concrete cutting activities.

If you need concrete sawing performed safely and reliably, be it commercial or residential, please call us at MEGASAW.

We have over 20 years of experience providing quality concrete cutting services all over Melbourne. Our experience is your guarantee!

Please call us today on 1300 920 419 or leave an inquiry.