Before you decide that you want to cut through concrete or any type of cement, grout, brick, and other such similar material on your property, you would do well to consider calling a professional concrete cutter. They can typically handle the job much faster and easier for you and ensure it gets done right. Before you do make some calls, you might also consider some commonly asked questions about cutting concrete. This will ensure you know the terminology you might hear when discussing your needs with a contractor and will also ensure you know why working with such a professional is the best choice.

1. How is core drilling different than concrete cutting?

When describing the work that needs to be done, you may hear a contractor say that you need core drilling. This is actually a type of concrete cutting but is done with a large drill that has a rounded bit at the end; this drilling is done to make a hole through concrete, not to cut out a slab or simply cut up concrete to be removed. The drill bit can be small enough to use for running electrical conduit through concrete or large enough to make space for plumbing pipes. If you hear a contractor ask if you need core drilling rather than concrete cutting, this is what he or she is talking about, so be sure you understand what this term means.

2. Why are there so many different types of concrete cutting blades?

One reason you might want to consider hiring a professional for cutting concrete is that they know the differences in concrete cutting blades and will have a wide variety of those blades to work with. Abrasive masonry blades are inexpensive but only work for short cuts, create a lot of smell, and wear away quickly. Many homeowners mistakenly buy these blades to save money and then wonder why they get dull so quick.

Diamond blades work either wet or dry, and they're not the same. Wet blades are meant to work with a special saw that ejects water during the cutting. Dry blades should be used to make gradually deeper cuts so they don't overheat.

Not only do you need to know the difference between the blades used for cutting concrete but they need to be used properly so they don't wear away too quickly. If choosing the right blade is difficult for you, it's best to leave the work to a contractor.

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