Whether you are renovating, adding on, or building a completely new structure, when it comes to concrete cutting, it is best to hire a trained and well-equipped professional to ensure a strong finished product. Between their advanced tools and expertise, a professional concrete cutter knows where and how to cut to minimize the risk of costly mistakes or structural damage. Plus, as professionals, they are also familiar with local building codes, which ensures compliance and an efficient process.
If you’re interested to know more about what concrete cutting professionals do, keep reading. This article explores the various concrete cutting practices used in renovation and new constructions.
Concrete Cutting in Renovation Projects
In a renovation project, the majority of concrete cutting focuses on concrete removal to modify an existing structure. This can include removing old concrete floors, walls, or other elements to make way for new designs or repairs. The installation of windows and doors are common renovations that require concrete cutting, but other reasons include:
damaged or deteriorating concrete
expanding rooms and other remodeling
upgrading and modernizing flooring
repairing foundation or drainage problems
concerns about hazardous materials in old concrete
improving insulation
updating utilities
The removal of any concrete must consider structural implications during the work and afterward. The replacement, whether it is concrete or another material, must be able to meet or surpass the existing concrete in terms of strength, insulation, and aesthetics. Professional concrete contractors are best suited to guide you in your choices and can expertly cut, remove, and replace old concrete.
The Complexity of Concrete Cutting in Renovation Projects
Due to existing structures and constraints, cutting existing concrete is complex and requires precise cuts to maintain structural integrity. Specialized equipment is often required. It is particularly valuable for floor and wall sawing services.
Concrete Cutting in New Construction Projects
In new construction, concrete cutting’s primary purpose is to prevent and control cracking as the concrete cures and shrinks. Saw cuts create controlled weak points that allow for controlled expansion and contraction and can guide potential cracks along predetermined lines. This is called control joint cutting.
A secondary feature of concrete cutting in new projects is the customization of the concrete’s aesthetic. This can include decorative patterns, textures, or designs cut into the surface. Lastly, cuts may be necessary to accommodate utilities, drainage systems, or other building elements.
Special Considerations for Concrete Cutting in New Construction Projects
As with renovation, cutting concrete for new construction projects requires expertise and appropriate equipment to cut correctly. The success of freshly poured concrete slabs depends on:
timing: depends on weather conditions. During the hot summertime days never more than 24 hours. During cooler spring and fall days this may differ.
depth: 1/4 to 1/3 of the concrete’s thickness
spacing: 24 to 30 times the thickness, which can vary depending on circumstances of the area of the concrete that was poured.
Finding Concrete Cutting in Edmonton.
If you’re looking for a qualified and respected concrete company to help with your concrete renovation or construction project in Edmonton or elsewhere in Western Canada, contact Champion Concrete Cutting (Edmonton) Inc. We offer free estimates and personalized concrete cutting services throughout Alberta, Saskatchewan, and British Columbia.