Why Is Propane More Environmentally Friendly Than Gas?

23-03-2022

The use of concrete for flooring in buildings ranging from warehouses to high end penthouses is on the rise. Not only is the material long lasting when installed properly, it can be polished to a high gloss and comes in a wide variety of colors. Even better, compared to other forms of flooring, home and business owners may use this material without breaking the bank. For the environmentally conscious contractor, costs can be further reduced by using propane to fuel those specialized concrete finishing tools and accessories, like grinders, saws, and polishers.

Propane Is Better!

Gasoline and diesel fueled tools are commonplace in many contractors’ toolboxes. These tools are popular with workers due to their location flexibility. Their reliance on fuel as opposed to electricity enables the tools to be used in spaces that may be without access to electricity. These fuels, however, are not the best solution for the environment. Diesel is known for its excessive emissions. These emissions have been known to aid the production of acid rain as well poisoning the human food chain through the poisoning of rivers and soil. Gasoline engines are known for their emission of air pollutants like carbon dioxide, carbon monoxide and nitrogen oxides. Thankfully, propane exists to solve these pollution problems. Now contractors can have the best of both worlds: tools that allow freedom of movement and tools that utilize clean energy!

Propane comes in gas and liquid states but is typically stored as a liquid in a pressurized container. This fuel has been shown to emit fewer greenhouse gases and lower levels of carbon monoxide. Using this cleaner energy not only benefits the general environment, but also the facility owners and the workers using the tools. Workers will no longer be inhaling toxic fumes from dirty gasoline and diesel engines. Also, accidents and spills happen. However, when using propane as your fuel, when the liquid propane is released from its pressurized container, it turns to a vapor and is released into the air, removing any potential environmental damage to the soil surrounding the worksite due to the spill. This will appeal to environmentally conscious customers who will also be pleased when they see how much cheaper it is to use propane.

Using Propane Powered Tools for Concrete Surface Prep

Concrete surface prep is made easier with propane fueled tools. U.S. SAWS is a champion of state of the art concrete finishing tools, and they have turned their focus to maximizing the benefits of propane’s clean energy. For instance, U.S. SAWS has released its JS-160 Propane Joint Clean-Out Saw. The joint clean-out saw is a key tool in the creation of a beautifully finished concrete floor. The insertion of concrete joints is an imperative step of the concrete finishing process. The joints ensure natural concrete cracking is controlled, and the cracks form where the contractor wants them. Many times, the concrete floors are inserted in areas that may not already have access to electricity, and an alternatively powered tool is required. This tool is equipped with a powerful certified propane engine, the 479cc, 16 horsepower Briggs and Stratton Vanguard V-Twin, offering a 3 to 4 hour run time. This saw is also equipped with a carbon monoxide monitor and utilizes technology to reduce vibration.

U.S. SAWS is proud to offer cost effective concrete surface solutions from initial prep to polishing and finishing. Contact U.S. SAWS today to learn more about their wide array of tools and accessories for every contractor.

Cup Wheels: Top Benefits When Finishing Concrete

16-11-2021

There are different methods to finishing concrete, and all of them have their advantages and disadvantages. Some techniques are preferred due to their speed, or expense, or an existing level of comfort with them. Sometimes you use a certain method because that’s what you learned years ago. In other cases you might not be familiar enough with other options to make a fair comparison.

But businesses and individuals often turn to cup wheels for their concrete finishing as opposed to other methods. Why? What advantages do cup wheels offer in their own right? If you don’t use them currently, consider these reasons for implementing cup wheels into your finishing method.

Clean finish. Obviously, a finishing method has to actually work properly, and cup wheels provide a smooth surface that gives off a reflective quality in the right lighting. For professional-looking concrete, cup wheels are an effective option.

Safety. You might think that a mirror-like concrete finish would make the surface slippery and prone to safety hazards. In reality, the opposite is true. Using a cup wheel increases friction to the finished product, providing slip resistance and another element of safety to high-traffic areas. Finishing concrete with cup wheels produces a less-slippery product than other finishing methods.

Resistant. Finishing concrete with cup wheels helps the completed project remain durable in varying weather environments or high-traffic situations. The smooth surface is resistant to materials that could erode or stain the concrete, meaning it remains in good working order for a longer period of time. Concrete that doesn’t need frequent repair or refinishing saves money in the long run, and looks better during its life cycle.

Variety. Just as all concrete isn’t the same, and all jobs aren’t the same, cup wheels can vary a great deal as well. Different types of work will require different tools, and cup wheels come in enough variations to accommodate all those jobs. Size and diamond content are just a couple of specifications that will determine which cup wheel will be right for your job.

Affordable. Featuring high diamond content and a variety of grits, U.S.SAWS has a collection of cup wheels that can tackle any job, whether it’s implementation, repair or decoration. And all of them fit into a cost-conscious budget, providing long-lasting value as a trusted solution for creative or industrial projects.

U.S.SAWS: Another Advantage. As a leader in construction solutions, U.S.SAWS is an advantage for anyone with complicated jobs or precise work requirements. Our team is led by principals with decades of experience, so no job is foreign and no task is out of their area of expertise.

Knowing what type of tool to use in any given situation is one thing, but finding the right version of that tool can present its own challenges. U.S.SAWS can not only offer whichever cup wheel best suits your needs, but can assist in finding that tool and answer any questions you might have along the way. We’re happy to help you at every stage of the decision-making process. Use our contact page for prompt answers to your important questions.

Diamond Blades and the Benefits of Wet Cutting

09-11-2021

When precision cutting, diamond blades can be your best friend. They’re versatile, dependable, and able to handle a variety of tasks. They’re your go-to piece of equipment for many jobs, so you’ll want to take care of them.

With that in mind, what’s the truth about wet cutting? What are the benefits over dry cutting? Does it really matter, or can you really extend the life of your diamond blades by utilizing that method? What other advantages does wet cutting offer?

Let’s go over the wet cutting method and reveal the benefits associated with using it whenever possible.

Cleaner Air

When dry cutting, your work area will often become littered with dust and debris. It’s a natural part of the cutting process, so what can you do about it?

If you switch to wet cutting, when possible, you’ll reduce the amount of dust and particles that result from your work. The water traps the particles, leaving the air cleaner and your work environment clearer. Less debris means you can see better, and focus on your work instead of trying to navigate around dust and other particles. The end result is a cleaner and safer work environment for everyone working on the project.

Cooler Blades

Wet cutting helps cool the blade while you’re working. And the more you work, the more obvious those benefits become. The blade doesn’t overheat as quickly, so breaks are less frequent and each cut can go deeper.

The blades are less likely to warp in the heat so the cuts themselves are reliable and can be created more efficiently. Fewer breaks for maintenance means better workflow, and a project can be completed faster. And, as the saying goes, “time is money.” Wet cutting can create a faster work process, which affects the timeline and the budget in a positive way.

Other Considerations

Wet cutting also lends itself to better work conditions based on what kind of work you’re doing. If the job requires constant deep cutting, as opposed to shallow cuts at various intervals, wet cutting can be even more beneficial. Cooler blades, deeper cuts and fewer breaks will all be beneficial in those situations.

What you’re cutting and where you’re cutting it also matters. Masonry, metals, tile, and concrete will often yield better results from wet cutting for the reasons mentioned above. And since wet cutting requires an active water source, a simple, indoor project is often a candidate for dry cutting because it can be less messy. But with a water source and the right environment, wet cutting offers a number of benefits for your projects, especially if they require deep, constant cutting and would benefit from a cooler blade as the work is being done. Wet cutting can improve the quality of your work process and lengthen the life of the blades you depend on to get that work done.

Trust U.S. SAWS

U.S. SAWS has been optimizing the workplace for surface preparation and related jobs for more than 15 years. If you’re looking for the best tools to integrate wet cutting into your work product, we can help. Our specialty diamond blades will help you meet and exceed your project goals, and our team is ready to assist you if you have any questions or need further assistance. Simply use our contact page to get started.

4 Tips for Concrete Drill Safety

14-10-2021

As the use of concrete expands in both building construction for the residential and business world, as well as for municipal structure, the use of concrete drills rises as well. Concrete drills are fantastic tools, but, as with any power tool, there are certain precautions you should take to ensure your safety and to come away from the job or project with all of your digits intact.

Below are four key recommended safety measures to protect you when preparing to use a concrete drill.

Know Your Surroundings

The first piece of the concrete drill safety puzzle is to make sure you know what you are getting into. Before starting a job, fully inspect the worksite. Ensuring that the area is free of debris and is not slippery will help you keep your balanced with feet flat on the ground for a solid stance. Make sure the area is properly lit so that you can see what it is you are drilling into and to keep an eye on the debris released during the drilling process. When setting up your worksite, take extra care to confirm the area has proper ventilation. Gas powered drills release carbon monoxide which can be lethal.

It is also important to properly inspect your concrete drill prior to use. Check that the machine guards are in working order and that all parts are properly mounted and aligned. If a part is not functioning optimally, make the necessary repairs prior to use. Failure to inspect your tool’s grip, mounts and other parts can lead to a tool’s malfunction which can in turn lead to injury on the part of the user.

Set Yourself Up for Success

The second key safety measure for concrete drill safety is the use of protective gear. Besides OSHA regulations requiring the use of certain protective gear, it is always a good idea to take simple precautions to protect yourself. Concrete drills are power tools, and as with other power tools, concrete drills require certain safety gear to ensure you emerge from the job in one piece. First and foremost, are safety glasses. Protective eye wear should protect not just the front of the eye, but also the sides. Fast moving debris is a risk when drilling, which could become lodged in your eyes without the proper eye wear. A face covering is also vital to protect your nose, mouth, throat and lungs from concrete dust.

Other simple precautions will help reduce your risk of injury too. Pulling back long hair to ensure it does not get caught in the motor and avoiding loose fitting clothing that also could risk getting caught in the motor are important to remember. Gloves and non-skid foot wear will also protect your hands and feet from injury.

Go In with a Game Plan

Third, as with most jobs, it makes the most sense to attack the task with a game plan. Knowing the premises, ensuring you have the proper number of workers on site to complete the task at hand, and understanding what the expected outcome of the work is will put you on the path to success. Having a plan and executing that plan precisely will help you perform your concrete drilling task with the least amount of danger, in the optimal amount of time, with the best possible outcome.

When preparing your game plan, make sure to know the size of the drill and drill bit that the task requires. Be aware of the required depth of the cut. This will aid you in deciding whether or not a drill stand is necessary for the job. Using tools that are too small for the job may cause overheating of motors which can then cause injury. Using incorrect drill bits for the depth of the cut or surface being drilled can cause bits to bounce out of holes, which is also a safety issue. Being prepared with all of the right accessories to complete your cutting job is a key component to pulling off a safe and successful plan.

Watch for Waste

Finally, the besides potentially losing a digit to a dropped drill or passing out from carbon monoxide poisoning, concrete dust is the most dangerous hazard faced in concrete drilling. Working cleanly and efficiently will help reduce the amount of concrete dust to which you are exposed. The dust particles that are released into the air are respirable crystalline silica. These particles are much finer than grains of sand and may be inhaled on the job without the right protective gear. It takes some time for the light silica particles to settle, so they may remain a hazard even after the job is complete. Wet drilling, dust shrouds and vacuums are efficient ways to handle the large amount of concrete dust released during the drilling process.

Knowing and understanding the risks of concrete drills will help reduce the hazards you face while using it. Keeping in mind the four above concrete drill safety elements when preparing to use a concrete drill will ensure a job well done by an uninjured worker.

Learning how to use a concrete drill and maintaining proper concrete drill safety precautions may seem overwhelming, but it does not have to be. Contact U.S. SAWS today to determine the best drill and protective gear to use for your project.

Making Life Easier with Magnetic Manhole Lifters

08-10-2021

Manholes are essential to municipal infrastructure. They provide swift, easy access to storm drains, sewers, and a wide variety of underground pipes. Ensuring there is proper access for utility workers to these areas is crucial to maintaining this important part of the area’s framework. While utility workers need swift, easy access, the public should not be able to enter these areas. Because of this the manhole cover was created.

Manhole covers are beneficial for a few reasons. First, in order to help keep the public out of municipal water systems, storm drains and sewers, manhole covers have been developed to be exceptionally heavy, causing the average person to not be able to lift it on their own. Second, manhole many covers have vents, allowing the manhole to be protected from any public shenanigans but also allowing dangerous gases to escape before building up to dangerous levels.

Many times you hear utility work is back-breaking work. This is one of those specific instances where it can literally be back-breaking work, but it does not have to be anymore. With the advent of magnetic manhole cover lifters, the utility worker can maximize safety, time management and convenience all with one tool.

Benefit Your Body

Lifting manhole covers by hand is a terrible idea. Don’t try it! You risk a multitude of injuries by doing it. Manhole covers are made a few different ways, be it cast iron, steel, or concrete, and come in varying sizes, but all of them are heavy. Manual lifting can result in serious back injury, especially If you’ve misjudged the weight. Back injuries are debilitating and painful, and can require surgery to fix. Manhole covers can be slippery too, risking a crushed finger or hand. Toes and feet are also susceptible to injury, especially if they proper shoes are not being worn, as heavy manhole covers may be dropped suddenly, crushing toes or feet under the weight of the cover.

By including U.S. SAWS’ diverse variety of magnetic lifters in your toolbox, you can be sure to save energy and protect your back and limbs from painful injuries. The Megatron 2 Magnet Break N’ Take is the right tool for jobs with a 350 pound lifting capacity. For even heavier jobs, up to 900 pounds, the Supreme Duty Collapsible Dolly is your answer.

Work Smarter, Not Harder

Time is money, and moving heavy manhole covers can be time consuming work due to the heavy load of the cover. Magnetic lifters not only make the work easier on your body, but also save you significant time and effort. U.S. SAWS has developed smoother and more efficient ways to handle complex jobs. The Twin Magnetic Spreader Bar provides a beam that allows two magnets to be utilized at once, instead of only using one, making the job completion quicker and providing a safer lift, with the added bonus of greater stability during the lifting process.

Convenient Carry

Not only are magnetic lifters better for your body and more efficient, but they are even space saving and convenient to pack and store. Portability is important when you are working in an area far from where you had to park. Carrying a several pieces of heavy equipment is never convenient. U.S. SAWS magnetic lifters have dolly handles that break down for easy shipping and storage. Lifters like the Supreme Duty Collapsible Dolly also eliminate the use of pry bars, reducing the amount of equipment being hauled to and from the site. U.S. SAWS has the right durable tools that are portable and quickly and easily stored allowing you to get the job done safer and more efficiently, sparing your valuable time and protecting your body from injury.

Contact U.S. SAWS today to discuss the beat magnetic manhole cover lifters for your team and to see what new products they have waiting in their wings.

4 Tips for Chainsaw Safety

04-10-2021

Chainsaws are not toys. They are serious tools with serious repercussions when mishandled. Chainsaw injuries come in all shapes and sizes, from lacerations to the arms and legs to kickbacks to the chest or head. No matter the form of injury, chainsaw injuries may be life threatening. The best way to ensure you make it through your project unscathed by a chainsaw is to use proper safety gear and take other sensible precautions to reduce the possibility of causing harm to yourself.

Fortunately, chainsaw manufacturers, like U.S. SAWS, have been working to improve chainsaw safety options as well as educating users through owner’s manuals and operating guides to include instruction for proper use and proper safety measures while using your chainsaw. Chainsaws have included safeguards, such as the automatic chain brake, to reduce the occurrence of kickbacks. Kickbacks are one of the most disastrous chainsaw hazards, and occurs when the chainsaw guidebar suddenly pushes upwards, typically aiming towards the users head or chest. No matter the safety improvements made to chainsaws, it is always best practice to adhere to the manufacturer’s safety guidelines.

Below are four key recommended safety measures to take to keep yourself in one piece when handling a chainsaw.

Dress for Success

Learning how to use a chainsaw safely starts with the right protective clothing. Step one is ensuring you have comfortable, breathable clothing that allows you freedom of movement, but is not baggy. Overly baggy clothing risks getting caught in the chainsaw.

Typically jobs that require chainsaws usually come with flying debris, which can be hazardous to your hands and your eyes. Proper fitting gloves are essential. Gloves not only help protect from flying debris, but also help ensure you do not lose a finger in the event of a kickback. Safety glasses are also imperative to avoid potential debris. Regular eyeglasses or sunglasses leave open gaps on the side that allow debris to potentially become lodged in your eyes, which in turn, may cause permanent damage to your vision. It is always best practice to utilize safety glasses in these situations.

Foot protection is necessary too. Steel-toed boots with protective fabrics are the go to in this industry. This heavy duty footwear protects the user from falling branches and even from that accidentally dropped chainsaw. This type of footwear also comes in waterproof rubber for those wet cuts that require immersion in water.

Leg protection is equally as important. Chainsaw chaps are leg protectors that are made out of Kevlar and work to deflect any accidental interaction with the chainsaw. These protective coverings come with a variety of options to ensure you have the right gear for the proper conditions, including oil resistance and water resistance. Many even come with open backs to provide breathability for your legs. Chain saw jackets also operate in the same way as chainsaw chaps, protecting the chest area from the potentially traumatic effects of a kickback accident.

Helmets provide excellent protection for heads, and many come with visors that may provide an adequate replacement for safety goggles as a two in one piece of safety gear. Helmets are critical to reducing the damage from an errant kickback.

Finally, ear protection is a must. Chainsaws are loud. It is recommended that when exposed to noise levels above 85dB for an extended period of time, ear protection is required to prevent hearing loss. While gas chainsaws are the loudest, many times electric and battery powered chainsaws can reach levels that will also cause damage to the ears. Two options for ear protection include (1) in ear protectors, like earplugs, and (2) over the ear protectors which cover the entire ear area.

Get a Grip and Stay Grounded

Maintaining perfect form is not just for Olympians. It is also key to properly and safely using a chainsaw. Ensuring you have the right stance with the right grip on the chainsaw allows you to reduce your exposure to dangerous situations. Chainsaws are heavy, and maintaining your balance helps keep your arms and legs from rapidly wearing out. Keep a steady grip on the front and rear handles with your stance wide and with staggered feet. Ensure the thumb of your left hand remains under the front handle. This will reduce kickbacks. Remain on steady ground. Standing on ladders or rocks will throw you off balance and increase the potential for injury.

Maintenance Is Key

Properly maintaining your chainsaw is another vital component to chainsaw safety. Always make sure your chain is sharpened. Sharpened chainsaws are more efficient at cutting, and dull chainsaws have a greater chance of causing kickback. Make sure you are using a chainsaw that is sized properly for the job. Guidebars come in different sizes and are made to work within the parameters of their sizing. Cutting large branches with a small guidebar is never a good idea. Cleaning debris out of the saw after each use is important in preventing unnecessary wear and tear on the chainsaw. Unnecessary wear and tear opens the chainsaw up to malfunctions which can cause serious injury. Keeping the chain and guidebar lubricated are critical to the well-being of your chainsaw. If the chain and bar are not properly lubricated, friction builds, which can cause the chainsaw to overheat and may cause accidental burns to the user. Ensuring the chain has proper tension with the right lubrication and sharpness is also key in preventing kickbacks.

Remember Emissions

While lacerations and amputations are the most widely known hazards of chainsaw use, chainsaw emissions can cause real damage as well. While gasoline powered chainsaws may be the most powerful on the market, they come with a danger of their own. Toxic gases, such as carbon monoxide, are emitted during the use of gas powered chainsaws. It is imperative that these chainsaws are not used in close quarters or indoors. Carbon monoxide poisoning is dangerous. Exposure to carbon monoxide may result in nausea, vomiting, increased heart rate, impaired judgment, shortness of breath and even loss of consciousness. If the project that needs completing is scheduled to be done indoors or in tight quarters, it would be best to locate a chainsaw that requires alternative power sources such as battery operated chainsaws.

Learning how to use a chainsaw and maintaining proper chainsaw safety precautions may seem overwhelming, but it does not have to be. Contact U.S. SAWS today to determine the best chainsaws and protective gear to use for your project.

Tips to Choosing the Right Chainsaw

24-09-2021

U.S.SAWS is an industry leader in the manufacturing and sales of outdoor power equipment. Their chainsaws offer an exceptional level of safety and accuracy when cutting ductile iron pipe, PVC, or concrete and are frequently used by municipal water departments, underground, utility contractors and professional cutters. U.S. SAWS chainsaws are available as gas, hydraulic, or air powered saws. With an extensive range of powerful chainsaws, from lightweight all-rounders through to powerful workhorses, there’s a U.S Saw’s chainsaw for every potential job. With such a wide variety of options and models in their inventory, there are three key factors to consider before choosing the right chainsaw for your job.

The Size of the Job

Before spending a large sum of money on a fantastic, top of the line chainsaw, the first consideration should be about the size of the job at hand. Not every job requires a large blade chainsaw with diamond chains. Instead, it is best practice to get a general idea of how deep your cut will need to be, what type of material you are cutting, and then gauge the setting in which you will be doing your cut. For example, a utility worker may find him or herself in need of a chainsaw for cutting a submerged water pipe. U.S. Saws has a great option for this scenario: U.S. SAWS Air Chain Saw Model ACH-GB16. This strong air powered chainsaw has no emissions while running, has very few moving parts, and has no kickback, which is optimal for tight quarters. It comes with either a 16 inch blade or a 20 inch blade depending on the required depth of your cut. In situations where minimal excavation occurs and irregular shapes are needed, U.S. SAWS offers the 20 inch Ductile Iron Cutting Air Chain Saw Package. This outdoor power equipment package comes with a heavy duty chainsaw, bar, chain, storage bag, pipe clamp and chain extension. The pipe clamp takes the back breaking work out of pipe cutting.

Your Experience Level

The second factor to consider is your experience level. While some may think that bigger means better, that’s not always the case when it comes to chainsaws. Not only is it important to choose a model suited to the tasks for which you will be using the chainsaw, it is just as important to choose a chainsaw that is comfortable for you to handle and is suited to your experience level. As DIY projects become more prevalent with more people working from home, many new homeowners are excited by the prospect of using chainsaws for their new projects. Chainsaws are powerful and can be very dangerous in the wrong hands. It is important to realize that chainsaws are can be very heavy, and a heavy chainsaw will wear out your arms faster than a lighter chainsaw, which opens you and those around you to potentially dangerous situations. However, using a smaller chainsaw for a large job will also cause the same problem. Much like tale of Goldilocks and the Three Bears, it is important that the person using the chainsaw finds one with the proper weight and fit for the user’s size and strength and balances that with the size of the job at hand.

The Power Source

The third factor to consider when preparing to purchase a chainsaw is the type of power source. Much like blade size and weight, chainsaws offer a wide variety of power sources which are dependent on the type of job for which the chainsaw is intended. Depending on the scenario, more power is not always the best option. U.S. SAWS offers chainsaws that are powered by gas, hydraulics or air, all of which are great in their own ways and suited to different users and tasks. The choice of power is reliant on the application. Air powered chainsaws, or pneumatic chainsaws, are typically lightweight and easy to maintain, but they do require the operator to be tethered to an air compressor, which is then also fueled usually with diesel fuel which drives up the cost of using a pneumatic chainsaw. Hydraulic powered chainsaws are long lasting and are great for use in wet conditions and also have reduced emissions, making it a great option for use in tight spaces. Gas chainsaws are real powerhouses. Their motors provide more power than pneumatic or hydraulic chainsaws. However, one of the best benefits to gas powered chainsaws is their portability. As they are not attached to a power outlet in anyway, they can be used in the field where electrical outlets are scarce.

No matter the size of the job, the experience level of the user, or the power source of the chainsaw, make sure to always wear your safety gear!

U.S. Saws is an innovator in outdoor power equipment. Contact U.S. Saws today to find the right chainsaw for your job.

Ideal Accessories for Your Polyurea Pump

19-08-2021

Concrete is a diverse medium for use in residential and commercial spaces. Concrete workers and interior designers are able to maximize the flexibility of concrete via its texture, color, and sheen, at a rate that is easy on the budget. As miraculous as concrete seems, it also needs to be properly installed and maintained to avoid excessive cracks. However, not all cracks in concrete are bad. As a matter of fact, the installation of concrete requires certain planned cracks, called control joints, to ensure that the cracking is manageable and works with the functionality of the flooring. The control joints work to manage the contraction and expansion of the concrete as it cures and dries. Cracks are inevitable, but by creating control joints and utilizing the proper fillers, any damage from the natural contraction and expansion of the concrete is mitigated. Ensuring the control joints are spaced out properly is the key to the reduction of unwanted cracks.

When the control joints are created, they need to be filled in order to provide the necessary cushion between the two pieces of concrete. There exist two industry standard types of joint fillers: epoxy control joint fillers and polyurea control joint fillers. Polyurea joint fillers are the easiest to work with of these two fillers. Fast setting with a flowable pour, the polyurea joint filler is a great choice for people who want to not only filly joints, but also for caulking and crack repairs. Polyurea filler is also versatile in that it can be made in a variety of colors.

What is the Purpose of a Polyurea Pump?

While the polyurea control joint filler is versatile, it does require the combination of two chemicals at the time of placement in the control joint. Because of the fast setting aspect of the polyurea joint filler, you need a pump that allows you to merge and apply the compounds at a rapid pace. Once the two compounds merge, they start to cure and dry. Polyurea pumps apply the fast-acting, merged compounds to their proper place in the control joint quickly. Typically a job for multiple people due to the dual components, the polyurea pump makes this a one-man job, reducing labor costs and allowing the joint filler to be applied swiftly and with maximum precision.

Top Accessories for Your Pump

Every great tool needs equally as great accessories. The polyurea pump is no different. Because the polyurea joint filler is applied to cracks, both planned and unplanned, it is important to ensure the cracks are clean and free of debris. Many times, joints that have been filled will need a new application of joint filler. In order to do this, it is important to remove any remaining filler to ensure proper cohesion. This is where the crack chaser plays a vital role. The U.S.SAWS 5” hand-held premium crack chaser is a prime example of a high-quality crack chaser. This handy tool is small and lightweight making it perfect for use horizontal and vertical repairs. It also comes equipped with dry diamond blades.

A power inverter is another great accessory for the polyurea pump. In using a battery, the polyurea pump is freed from the constraints of the power cord. Cord-free operation is handy for those tight situations where a cord can get in the away, or in times when a power source is not conveniently located nearby. U.S.SAWS 1200W Power Inverter is a great choice.

Because of the quick setting materials in the polyurea filler, it is vital to clean the components to the pump quickly after use. Having a replacement pump on hand is always a good call. The U.S.SAWS Polyurea Replacement Pump works to prevent seal leaks and is much easier to clean.

Finally, as the tanks are a vital piece of the polyurea pump puzzle, it is always a good idea to have replacement tanks for the pump as well. A spare resin tank and a spare hardener tank on hand will ensure that should there be any issue with your current tanks, you have clean, debris-free spares to use.

U.S.SAWS One Man Polyurea Pump

Priding itself on quality tools at the right price, U.S.SAWS has created its One Man Polyurea Pump. This top-of-the-line pump is operated by a single user and delivers optimal precision while reducing the need for increased labor costs. This pump comes equipped with a T handle that allows the operator to guide the pump along the control joint or crack easily and precisely. The tanks are lower, which enables the operator to fill and refill the tanks with ease. There is even an enclosed box for tool storage! Cord-free operation is available via the storage space where a power inverter with a battery or a generator can be accommodated. This polyurea pump is balanced and well-conceived for ease of use and efficiency.

U.S.SAWS is an innovator in the tool industry. As concrete flooring gains popularity, U.S.SAWS remains on the cutting edge of tool manufacturing for concrete surface prep. Contact U.S.SAWS today to find the right polyurea pump for your concrete job.

The Brilliant Belly Saw

30-07-2021

Often time contractors find themselves stuck in tight situations where large diameter pipe needs to be cut, but the conditions are not optimal for the use of industry standard pipe cutters or saws. Cutting pipe in cramped conditions can be a real nightmare. Couple that with wet conditions and you could be setting yourself up for disaster. That’s where the U.S.SAWS Belly Saw comes in and makes life a whole lot easier for those wet cuts in narrow spaces.

Applications of a Belly Saw

The belly saws supplied by U.S.SAWS are ideal for pipes ranging from 8 inches to 24 inches, 24 inches to 48 inches, and 48 inches to 72 inches in diameter. Contractors and utility workers use these innovative saws for cutting subgrade pipes in tight conditions as it only requires 7 inches of clearance to work, eliminating the need to clear out excessive amounts of dirt to create the cut, which then saves significant time and effort. If a pipe has burst and needs to be cut and repaired, having to clear out a wide area of sludge under and around the pipe increases the amount material lost from leaking out of the pipe and requires more effort and manpower to clear out, thereby increasing the total cost of the job. The belly saw provides the workers the ability to make the cut quicker by reducing the amount of space needed for saw clearance and under safer conditions.

U.S.SAWS manufactures and sells belly saws that are pneumatically or hydraulically powered. These powerful saws with their Tiger Tooth blades make cutting PVC, HDPE, ductile iron and cast iron pipes a breeze, creating precision cuts every time.

Benefits of a Belly Saw: Increased Safety

Wet and tight are never conditions that meld together to create a safe pipe cutting scenario. U.S.SAWS has solved that problem through their belly saw. U.S.SAWS is always looking for ways to develop tools that protect workers. Their belly saws do not disappoint in this regard. These saws are water saws in that they are ideally used in wet conditions. As safety is paramount in the design of these saws, U.S.SAWS first ensures that the saw is equipped with its top of the line Tiger Tooth saw blade. Sharp blades make lessen cutting time, which then reduces the amount of time spent using the saw. For cutting pipe ranging from 8 to 24 inches, the belly saw comes equipped with an 8 inch blade. Pipes with diameters of 24 to 48 inches and 48 to 72 inches would use a belly saw equipped with a 12 inch Tiger Tooth blade. The next safety feature of the belly saw is its clamshell design. This shell design surrounds the saw and protects the workers from those sharp blades before, during and after the cut. Another safety feature for these saws is how they are powered. By using air or hydraulic power in small, cramped spaces, emissions are non-existent, and workers are not forced to breath in harmful fumes. Finally, the vital safety feature of this water saw is the strap used to affix the saw to the pipe. By strapping the saw to the pipe itself, the saw can be drawn around the pipe for a fast and accurate cut. Further, U.S.SAWS supplies a “water kit” for use with steel pipes to suppress sparks.

Hydraulic Powered Saw

Save Time with U.S.SAWS Belly Saws

Not only has U.S.SAWS taken safety into account for the development of their belly saws, they also want to ensure the saw is an efficient tool. The entire purpose of the “tool” is to make a regular job easier. U.S.SAWS understands that time is money, not only for the workers, but also for the municipalities or businesses employing the workers or supplying the materials flowing through the various pipes. The 7 inch clearance space required to cut fully around a large diameter pipe is nothing compared to other tools used for similar jobs. Less prep work means less time and money spent. By requiring such minimal clearance for such a large job, the workers’ time normally spent on clearing space, can be used attaching the saw and focusing on creating an accurate cut. Further, the accuracy provided by using the strap and wheel system requires less effort by the workers during back breaking work, and also enables the workers to make easy accurate cuts, reducing the need to fix a poor cut.

U.S.SAWS is an innovator in the tool industry. In balancing safety and efficiency, U.S.SAWS has developed yet another saw that will revolutionize the world of pipe cutting. Contact U.S.SAWS today to find the right belly saw for your business

The Importance of Concrete Surface Prepping

28-07-2021

Since before the time of the ancient Romans, concrete has been a vital resource for use in the industrial and construction world. Over the last several years, however, concrete use has spilled over into the interior design world as well. Because of its price point, durability and variety, concrete floors are popping up all over commercial and residential locations. Whether the building owner is looking for that “unfinished” industrial chic look or just sees the practicality of inexpensive flooring, concrete floors have become all the rage.

Concrete surfaces are known for their hardness (no dropped egg is going to survive a tumble in a kitchen with concrete flooring, although, a great rug will help in that regard). They’re also known for their durability and versatility. From utilitarian finishes to texted, chic colors and designs, concrete surfaces can bring style to the most humdrum of locations. Of course, obtaining and maintaining that high sheen requires some work with concrete specific tools.

In order to get the finish you want, whether it is for a repair or a new floor, it is important to ensure the concrete is prepped properly prior to applying any finishing coats.

Remove Debris and Material

While concrete flooring is definitely a low-maintenance flooring option, there is some intense preparation that needs to be done to achieve and maintain that highly finished look. Surface preparation is the key to ensuring your concrete flooring finish lasts. The first step in proper surface preparation is to remove any debris or material that will affect the finished product. Initially, this can be done with a broom and vacuum, but the process doesn’t stop there. This work is done with concrete grinding tools and requires specific safety gear to protect the workers from hazardous fine dust particles that can get into their lungs. The purpose of the grinding is to remove any damaged or weak concrete from the slab. This also helps clean the surface of any oil or residues that may be on the concrete that would inhibit the finishing process. After the concrete has been ground down, it is important to roughen up the concrete with the right abrasive technique. Depending on the purpose of the flooring, there are several different techniques, such as acid etching, abrasive blasting, and water-jetting, that are used to roughen up the surface to ensure the sealants and overlays last. Once the concrete has been roughened up, you can go ahead and add your sealant and overlays.

Cleaning and Repairing Concrete

With so many daily stresses in our lives, it’s great to know one thing can be simple, and that is cleaning up concrete flooring. Tile flooring can get dirt and grime wedged in the grout in between the tiles. Carpets can stain due to spills and dirt, some of these stains wind up being permanent. Concrete flooring avoids all of these hassles. It is easy to clean and maintain and just requires some maintenance every few years. The properly finished concrete surface is resistant to water, stains, and abrasions. This makes cleaning up dirty pet paws or spilled drinks a breeze. Using a pH-neutral cleanser and avoiding harsh products like ammonia and bleach will help preserve the integrity of your finish. Harsh cleaners will degrade the finish and react with the concrete.

Repairing concrete is easy as pie too, with the right tools. A properly finished and well maintained concrete floor should last between eight and fifteen years. Sometimes, no matter how well-loved the floor may be, repairs will need to be made. The extent of the repairs will depend on whether the concrete surface issues are structural or aesthetic. Preparing the area for repair is an important step. All cracked and flaking bits of concrete need to be removed from the surface area. The original sealant will need to be removed. Dust, debris, and oils all need to be removed prior to starting any repair work. If you are repairing a crack in the concrete, it is important to remember that concrete shrinks, and your current concrete floor has already completed its shrinking cycle. You will want to ensure any filler you use to repair the cracks is a low shrinkage filler to ensure bonding does not fail. Once the crack(s) are repaired, treat the concrete surface again with whatever abrasive technique is proper for your particular flooring to roughen it up, and then reseal the floor and polish until it is as shiny as you want it.

Walk Behind Joint Cleanout Saw

Prevent Further Issues for Long Lasting Finish

In order to maximize the durability of your concrete surface, make sure to maintain it regularly. Removing and resealing the surface every few years will help prevent cracking. Ensuring you are not using harsh chemicals to clean your floor will help preserve the sealant and the shine. As the sealant is the top section of your flooring, this is where several eye-catching issues may arise. If you are doing the prepping and finishing the floor yourself, make sure to follow all manufacturers’ directions regarding sealants. Many issues, for example, bubbles in the surface, will become non-issues when you read the manufacturers’ instructions and learn the limitations of the product you intend to use. Preventing problems is much easier and less costly than having to solve problems.

U.S.SAWS is a leader in the concrete tool business, and their inventory of surface prep tools is versatile and extensive. Contact U.S.SAWS today to determine what tools you need to achieve that high gloss concrete finish.