DIY Builds
Photo by Rachel Claire Pexels Logo Photo: Rachel Claire

What happens if you cut concrete too deep?

Depth of Cut In case the cut is too deep, the interlocking may not be sufficient enough for transfer of loads. On the other hand, if it's too shallow, it might result in random cracking. The contractor should also make sure that the concrete cut depth meets the appropriate structural engineering specifications.

How can I make my shed more secure?
How can I make my shed more secure?

How to secure your shed Make your garden unattractive to thieves. Secure the roof and windows. Choose the right doors and locks. Secure your shed...

Read More »
How much does a 10x10 shed cost to build?
How much does a 10x10 shed cost to build?

Cost Estimator by Size SHED SIZE TYPICAL COST RANGE 10×10 (100 sq. ft) $2,000 to $17,500 10×12 (120 sq. ft) $2,400 to $21,000 12×12 (144 sq. ft)...

Read More »
Can I build my own shed?
Can I build my own shed?

Yes, with the right plans you can build your dream shed.

Learn More »

Concrete cutting is a job for the professionals and sometimes, even the most experienced hands end up making mistakes. Therefore, it is important that you hire the services of a professional contractor in order to get precision cuts that do not result in too many cracks. Keep in mind that concrete cutting will result in cracks but professional expertise will ensure that the cracks are minimised so that the structural integrity of the concrete slab isn’t compromised. There are a number of variables that matter when it comes to determining the precise depth of concrete cuts.

1. Weather Conditions

The right time to cut concrete depends a lot on the weather conditions. If the weather conditions are hot, the process can start as early as four hours once the concrete is poured. On the other hand, the concrete cutting shouldn’t start for at least 12 hours after the concrete is poured in cooler weather conditions. Ideally, some trial cuts should be made by the contractor to make sure that the slab is ready for cutting before making the actual cuts.

2. Depth of Cut

As far as the depth of the cut is concerned, professionals recommend cuts ranging from one quarter to one third of the thickness of the slab. Simply put, this means that the cutting depth should be restricted to around 2.5 inches for an 8 inch thick concrete slab. In case the cut is too deep, the interlocking may not be sufficient enough for transfer of loads. On the other hand, if it’s too shallow, it might result in random cracking. The contractor should also make sure that the concrete cut depth meets the appropriate structural engineering specifications.

3. Choosing the Right Tool

Concrete cuts are usually made with the help of a chainsaw or a cut-off saw. Both these tools have their own advantages in terms of precision as well as cost. The choice of tool will depend on the particular application. Chainsaws are preferred for cutting square corners as well as for making deep cuts.

How close to the edge of concrete can you put rebar?
How close to the edge of concrete can you put rebar?

Rebar should be about 4 inches away from the edge of the concrete if you are setting it down for a floor. For foundations, the rebar should be...

Read More »
Do I have to give my Neighbour access to my garden?
Do I have to give my Neighbour access to my garden?

Planning permission to build and Access Requests Even if your neighbour has planning permission to build a structure, if any part of it has to be...

Read More »
Can I build my own shed?
Can I build my own shed?

Yes, with the right plans you can build your dream shed.

Learn More »

A chainsaw is the best choice for making a clean and square cut. A chainsaw can also be used for making small openings in thick concrete slabs. Cut-off saws are preferred in situations where water is not readily available or in situations where you need to make a quick cut.

4. Spacing between Cuts

If you are making relief joints in concrete, you need to figure out the spacing between cuts. Experienced professionals recommend spacing that ranges from 2 to 3 times the overall thickness of the concrete slab. Simply put, an 8 inch thick concrete slab should have cuts 16 to 24 inches apart. The environmental factors and the job site conditions will also affect the spacing between cuts.

5. Position of Cuts

When making cuts, it is important to choose an area without any continuous steel reinforcement. It is also important to make sure that the cuts are continuous as too many cuts will lead to too many cracks which will increase the maintenance cost.

Final Thoughts

Overall, concrete cutting is not as straightforward as it looks. There are a number of things that need to be considered in order to make precise cuts. The choice of equipment, weather conditions, spacing of the cuts as well as experience of the contractor will determine the end result. Therefore, it is important that you hire the services of a professional company that has experienced professionals with the best equipment to get the results you want. If you are looking for a concrete cutting company that is trustworthy and reliable, then don’t go past VIC Sawing and Drilling. Call us today on (03) 8786 3621 or contact us through https://www.vicsawing.com.au/contact/

Can I airbnb my shed?
Can I airbnb my shed?

A number of Brits are making a small fortune by becoming an Airbnb 'shedcation' host. Turn your shed into an amazing destination for a holiday. The...

Read More »
What can I use instead of landscape fabric?
What can I use instead of landscape fabric?

Best Landscaping Fabric Alternatives Wood chips. Bark mulches. Pine needles. Shredded leaves. Grass clippings. Compost. Newspaper. Cardboard. More...

Read More »
How can a woman become rich?
How can a woman become rich?

7 Money Habits of Wealthy Women You Should Adopt Spend less than you make. ... Pay yourself first. ... Automate your money. ... Start saving and...

Read More »
What should you not keep in a garage?
What should you not keep in a garage?

Let's examine some of the items that are never recommended to be stored in a garage, no matter how convenient. Propane Tanks. ... Clothing and...

Read More »