Category: Featured

Traditionally chainsaws are known to be used for wood projects such as tree removal. But when your project calls for cutting deep into concrete, a chain saw specified for concrete should be your first choice. These types of saws can be used on all different types of concrete, bricks, masonry, and steel objects as well. Concrete chainsaw blades are made of mainly diamond grit which has incredible durability for these different types of surfaces. Because of the common use of these chainsaws in home construction, government projects, and non-residential buildings, they are becoming an essential tool for all construction companies.

Purpose of Concrete Chainsaws:

For most construction jobs, a concrete chainsaw is one of workers’ most used tools because of how diverse a tool it can be. Demolition jobs, mining works, and even firefighters occasionally use these intensified concrete chain saws for their jobs. These chainsaws are perfect for tight, hard-to-reach areas where big equipment can’t reach. Concrete chainsaws can easily make small, deep openings in these tough surfaces to further enhance any project that you are working on.

These chainsaws are welded with diamond segments to increase the hardness and endurance of the cut you are performing. Because these concrete chainsaws have pressurized water circulation instead of bar and chain oil in regular chainsaws, heat reduction is the main component.

A concrete chainsaw is a perfect tool for these hard, tough surfaces because of the little amount of kickback they produce. These saws hardly ever get caught because concrete is a fibrous, brittle structure.

Different Types of Concrete Chainsaws:

Depending on the variety of jobs you are working on will depend on the type of concrete chainsaw that you use. Gas and air-powered chainsaws are very different, so it is important to gain some knowledge beforehand when deciding on your next chainsaw. At U.S. Saws, we offer different chainsaws to make your next project become easier and more efficient to get the job done as quickly as possible:

Ductile Iron Cutting Air Chainsaw: These chainsaws are designed for the demanding jobs you come across when working in the construction business. They are the perfect saw for cutting ductile iron and other types of pipe that you may find. This type of chainsaw has different capabilities that are able to cut from 15” up to 20” deep of piping. The Ductile Iron Air Chainsaw makes sure safety is a priority and ensures the job gets done as quickly, but efficiently as well.

Concrete Cutting Air Chainsaw: This air-powered chainsaw is designed to cut through concrete walls, underground vaults, concrete pipes, and other tough structures. The cutting air chainsaw is used by contractors who require high performance and are very low maintenance, emissions-free tools. Because it is air powered, you can use this chainsaw for unground projects and not worry about the dangers of breathing in fumes that most gas-powered equipment produces. With a long service life, this saw will save you on maintenance costs in the future and become an everyday tool for your projects.

Ductile Iron Cutting Gas Chainsaw: With new 695XL features, this chainsaw has an easy-to-start engine with a high ignition system ready to tackle any surface in its way. These chainsaws are durable and have long-lasting components such as the muffler, carburetor, and piston to provide you with sustainability for years. This is the highest horsepower ICS gas chainsaw that is mostly used by construction, contractors, and concrete professionals. Packages with this chainsaw include a guide bar, PowerGrit Ductile Iron Chain, 10” Pipe Clamp, and Storage Bag Package to ensure you are getting your money’s worth.

Concrete Cutting | ICS 695XL-16 F4 Heavy: The most versatile gas-powered chainsaw from U.S. Saws. Available with 12 In. (30 cm) – 16 In. (40 cm) guide bars and the entire line of max, ProFORCE, and powerhead series Diamond Chains make this chainsaw perfect for any hard-cutting jobs you are working on. This chainsaw also involves the package of a guide bar, PowerGrit Ductile Iron Chain, 10” Pipe Clamp, and Storage Bag. Out of all the chainsaws with U.S. Saws, this is the lightest weighted one to use as well.

With different types of chainsaws available, U.S. Saws is here to help you find the perfect match for your next project. From tough concrete cutting to intensified pipe cutting, we have the chainsaws ready for your specific job to get done quickly and efficiently.

How to use a Concrete Chainsaw

Safety First:

Using a chainsaw is a dangerous aspect of the construction business. Because of this, safety should always be the first step when using a concrete chainsaw. Make sure you are well equipped with the proper clothing, hard hat, eye protection, and gloves. Once this is executed, checking the area before the cut is the next step.

Check the area and be sure that no electrical wires, plumbing, air ducts, or other dangerous obstructions are in the way of the cut you are about to make. The chain on the saw should be inspected to ensure the tension is correct and not too high as well. This is important to ensure the chain will work the way you need it to when performing your cut.

Plan Your Cut:

Planning your cut before the initial cut is an essential part of using these chainsaws. You can use a marker to help with a visual guide during this process. One thing that is important to remember is to always cut the bottom of the area first, cut the top of the area afterward, then finish with the sides.

The recommended technique that is the easiest and safest is called “plunge cutting”. Having a straight cut is a top priority and this process ensures this happens.

The Execution:

When it is finally time to cut your surface, start by slowly putting the nose of the guide bar straight into the surface. It is important that the trigger is continuously held on full throttle throughout the whole cut. The nose of the bar should be lined up with the visual guide you created while you slowly plunge.

During this process, a good amount of force should be applied. But if you push too much force, the saw will stall and the chain will untimely not have enough speed to continue with the cut. Having not enough force will cause the diamonds of the chain to glaze over the concrete. It is essential to find the right amount of force and maintain a constant RPM throughout the cut when using these chainsaws.

If you ever need a faster cutting speed, opening up the diamonds on the chain can execute this. This is done if you are struggling to make a cut on the surface you are working on.

Rent vs Buy:

Depending on the work you do will help you choose whether you should invest in buying a chainsaw or renting one. Whatever side you pick, you need to decide what will help your projects in the future the most, as well as financially for your business to make sure you get your money’s worth.

Rent:

If you don’t normally use concrete chainsaws for your everyday projects, your best decision is to rent. There isn’t much need to buy a chainsaw for one-time use. Because there are several different types of chainsaws, if you do decide to rent, you need to ensure you get the right one for the specific project that you will be working on.

There is a big difference between gas and air chainsaws that have different amounts of power produced. Inspect the project you will be working on first before you start any of the renting processes for this equipment.

Always make sure the chainsaw you are renting is up-to-date and performs the way it is supposed to. The last thing you want is to start on your project with a faulty chainsaw that will waste valuable time and money.

Buy:

If your business is heavily involved with concrete projects, investing in a high-quality concrete chainsaw will be well worth the money. Having your own chainsaw means you never have to worry about finding a chainsaw to rent in urgent times. Struggling to find a chainsaw to rent can make or break an important project that is urgent.

When you decide you want to buy, going the cheaper route isn’t always the best. Yes, these chainsaws are expensive. These types of chainsaws turn into a financial commitment that will be worth it in the end.

Concrete chainsaws that you buy from U.S. Saws are high-quality and satisfaction guaranteed. With the most durable and sustainable chainsaws available, you will lower your maintenance costs and be able to finish every project that is thrown your way when it comes to concrete and other tough surfaces needed to be cut.

Frequently Asked Questions:

How Long Do Concrete Chainsaws Last?

The average life expectancy of one of these chainsaws is at least 10 years. How long your chainsaw lasts all depends on how well you take care of it. Maintaining and cleaning your chainsaw will provide you with longer usage times for them. Be sure to replace any parts as soon as possible and lubricate the chainsaw before and after every use as well. If you maintain it and clean it thoroughly after every use, you can have your concrete chainsaw for a very long time, and will be worth the money you spent originally.

This also depends on the brand you choose to buy as well. Chainsaws are a huge market so there are numerous amounts of different brands and manufacturers. Each brand uses different materials and has different needs so your life expectancy on these chainsaws will always differ.

How Deep Do You Cut Concrete?

Most uses for a concrete chainsaw are for small openings or different tough surfaces. Because of this, different chainsaws can cut concrete up to 25 inches thick. Some hydraulic concrete chainsaws will cut more than 25 inches. Most gas-powered chainsaws will cut 12 to 16 in. deep depending on the model, bar, and chain being used. Depending on what chainsaw you are using and the material you are trying to cut will all affect how deep you can cut. You need to make sure you have total control of your chainsaw to ensure you don’t cut deeper than needed for your surface.

When is it Time to Replace Your Chainsaw?

When your chainsaw starts making you work harder than you usually do, this is when it is time to think about finding a replacement. Your chainsaw might become sluggish and the cuts you normally make will take longer. Missing teeth, rust, and smoking from the chain are also noticeable factors that it is time to find a replacement. Most of the time it is only the chain that needs to be replaced when these difficulties start occurring. Always inspect your chainsaw before each project so you can notice any issues beforehand.

Can you Cut Concrete Dry?

Cutting concrete with any saws should never be done dry. This type of cutting should be strictly done with a wet system. This helps reduce dust that can become health hazards within the respiratory system. Wet cutting helps with more precise cuts and puts less pressure on those using the chainsaw as well. Even though this is by far a messier method, this is an important cooling aspect for your diamond blades to ensure they are being used properly for your cutting project. 

Is “Kickback” a Safety Issue When Using These Chainsaws?

According to a research study recently published in the International Journal of Occupational Safety and Ergonomics, abrasive chainsaws generate nearly 50% less kickback energy than circular cutoff saws – making them a safer choice when cutting these tough surfaces. Diamond chains that are on your concrete chainsaw grind through concrete with small diamond teeth that are without hooks. If you use the preferred method of plunging straight into the surface when starting your cut, there will be no kickback. Wood-cutting chainsaws give kickback because the sharp hooked teeth grab the wood.

Where to Buy Your Next Concrete Chainsaw?

Concrete chainsaws are becoming a popular tool for the construction business. Because of their efficiency and safety features, choosing to have this piece of equipment is crucial for your next project. There are many different factors that go into deciding on your next concrete chainsaw. This can be a difficult process to ensure you get your money’s worth, but U.S. Saws has you covered throughout the whole process. With different types of chainsaws and attachments available, U.S. Saws will get you the most high-quality chainsaw to fit your project’s specific needs.

U.S.SAWS principals each have over 30 years of experience in the concrete repair industry and are very knowledgeable about Sawtec products. We are dedicated to improving contractors’ brand loyalty through innovative product enhancement and personal customer service. We bring to market innovative construction products which provide our customers value by improving job site productivity and safety as well.

U.S. Saws is an innovator in the tool industry. Concrete chainsaws are an essential tool for all tough surface cutting needs that will take your project to the next level. As there are many factors to consider in choosing the proper concrete chainsaw for your project, engaging with a company to help guide you to the right knowledge and concrete chainsaw equipment will ensure your project is completed promptly and in the right manner.  Contact U.S. Saws today to find the concrete chainsaw to meet your specific project needs.

All concrete floors have control joints that are run along the sides of the floor to give the view of distinct slabs. These joints can be there for design purposes, but mainly to prevent the floor from eventually cracking. Because concrete expands and contracts with temperature changes, these control joints ensure that these cracks run their course through these joint lines.

Unfortunately, most people working on concrete don’t take these concrete joints seriously and cut them wherever they want. In reality, these should be strategically planned out to ensure the places that are most prominent for cracking to occur are gone through these control joints. This process becomes an important aspect in ensuring there is no additional stress in the concrete that can cause more damage than there needs to be.

Why Do We Need Control Joints?

Control joints that are placed strategically can be an effective way to prevent any cracking in your concrete. Stress on the concrete can be caused by shrinkage during the curing process and small expansion caused by moisture getting into the concrete. When there isn’t anything to help relieve this stress that is developed, more and more cracks will become present in your concrete. Because expansion and contraction can be caused by so many contributors such as temperature, wind, and live loads, control joints can help reduce this damage that is out of your control.

No matter where you are placing concrete, control joints are essential to preventing damage. These concrete joints also give it an aesthetically pleasing look since the crack takes place below the finished concrete surface present. Having cracked concrete is normal, but the absence of random cracks at the surface gives the appearance of it being uncracked giving an appealing sort of look. You never want to prevent cracks; the object is to control and “disguise” them in the most decorative way as possible. 

How to Create Concrete Control Joints:

These joints are best added when you’re pouring concrete or before the curing process. Since there will be a number of different pours during the concrete installation, you can put in control joints between each pour to allow for the expansion process.

A jointing trowel is a tool that is specifically designed to create these control joints. This can ultimately be a very difficult process because of how tedious it is. The best method of this trowel process is to take a piece of lumber and lay it over your concrete to use it as a guide. This will help make for a straight edge when you end up running your trowel into the concrete. Use this method for concrete areas that aren’t as wide such as a path or sidewalk.

If needing control joints on already hardened concrete, you can use a cement saw to put them in. Use chalk and a line to set a perfect line across your available concrete. Depending on how thick your concrete is, the depth of the cut will be different. Be sure to go slow and continue until you have cut across the entire slab you are working on.

U.S. Saws Tiger Tooth Blade is perfect for cleaning joints. The 7, 8, or 10-inch blade removes polyurea without loading up. This blade matched with our Mark-III Joint Saw cleans out control joints, removes joint filler, and makes straight, accurate cuts in concrete. The handle and frame are designed for more stability and adjustable height that rotates to get closer to walls or racks. The saw comes equipped with a skid plate to help reduce joint spalling/raveling and a dust collection port on the blade guard for dust-free operation when used in conjunction with a suitable vacuum.

U.S. Saws is an innovator in the tool industry. Concrete control joints are a crucial aspect in the construction field that will take your project to the next level with safety and progression. As there are many factors to consider in choosing the proper tactics for control joints with your project, engaging with a company to help guide you to the right tools and knowledge will ensure your project is completed promptly in the right manner, and as safely as possible.  Contact U.S. Saws today to find the right tools that meet your specific needs.

Concrete finishing is dirty work. From cuts to grinds and from wet to dry, no matter what option you choose there’s going to be a significant amount of cleanup to do after the job is complete. One of the great benefits of using wet blades and grinders is the reduction of concrete dust in the air. Yes, the surrounding area gets wet, but at least you aren’t inhaling toxic dust.

Particle dust created through concrete grinding and sawing finds its way into all of the small spaces of your job site. In the past, the clean-up of these dust particles was tedious and time-consuming. Nowadays tool manufacturers understand the hazards faced by contractors and construction workers due to concrete dust and have adapted tools to control the release of dust particles into the air.

Why Is Concrete Dust Dangerous?

The purpose of grinding concrete is to remove imperfections in the concrete. As the grinder does its magic by smoothing and polishing the concrete floor, the bits of concrete that are ground away need to go somewhere. Because the particles of dust are so small and lightweight, they are easy to inhale. These fine particles are actually called respirable crystalline silica and are approximately 100 times smaller than an ordinary grain of sand. When inhaled never known to cause silicosis, which is an incurable lung disease. Respirable crystalline silica has also been known to cause cancer, tuberculosis, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). All of these are serious medical issues that should be avoided at all costs.

These particles of concrete dust are deemed dangerous by the government and certain standards were created by Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) in the 1960s to ensure workers’ safety. The guidelines required of contractors include:

• Implement an exposure control plan;
• Proper training on how to limit exposure; and
• Offering medical exams, chest X-rays, and lung function tests to workers wearing a respirator for 30 or more days a year.

Not only are these particles hazardous to the construction workers, but they are also dangerous to any of the people who live or work in the job location. These fine particles can travel and land anywhere, leaving residents and/or employees at risk of disturbing the settled dust and inhaling the particles. It is crucial as part of the cleanup for contractors to ensure their workers make their best efforts to fully rid the job location of any remaining concrete dust.

Tips for Protecting Yourself from Concrete Dust

There are many things contractors and construction workers can do to protect themselves from the hazards of respirable concrete dust. The first step is to ensure everyone working at or near the site is wearing a respirator.  It is critical that workers understand which respirator is right for the job. Different respirators block out different-sized particles. Educate yourself on the differences and ensure you are using the correct one for your specific job.

Another way to minimize free-range hazardous dust particulates is to capitalize on the advancements in tool technology and upgrade your toolbox with top-of-the-line dust collection systems. One such dust collection system is the U.S. Saws Ultra Vac 1250 Dust Collector which has changed the game for contractors. This state-of-the-art dust collection system comes equipped with:

• Top-of-the-line large HEPA (or High Efficiency Particulate Air) filters, which are capable of filtering out about 99.7% of various airborne particulates, even concrete dust
• Two 120V motors provide extra sucking power
• Durable steel frames that can withstand constant use
• High-capacity dust bins allow you to reduce the number of times needed to empty the bin, which always risks releasing more dust back into the air
• Front and rear handles for effortless transport
• It is OSHA certified

These high-powered performers allow contractors to completely clean the project site after a long afternoon of surface prep.

Contact U.S. SAWS today to ensure your dust collection system meets not only your job’s needs but is also OSHA certified.

Concrete is one of the most versatile mediums with which to create your idyll floor. It can be left matte or buffed to a high sheen. It can be sealed with its original color or painted to match any chic interior. That perfect floor comes with some strict installation and finishing instructions, including locating and using the right grinder for your concrete flooring project.

Why Is a Grinder Necessary?

Construction contractors are keenly aware of what it takes to perfect concrete flooring. From cutting control joints to sealing concrete after it has cured to grinding away imperfections and polishing to a desired sheen concrete flooring installation is hard, precise work that needs to be fully completed to appreciate its beauty.  One key component to achieving that perfection is through the use of a concrete grinder.

The concrete grinder is important to contractors because it grinds away any unevenness in the flooring and levels out control joints. Concrete grinders also aid in repurposing old concrete flooring. If the client is on a tight budget, perhaps refinishing an already existing concrete floor makes the most sense.  In this instance, a concrete grinder is a construction worker’s best friend. They can be used to remove paint and adhesive to existing flooring and polish worn surfaces.

Which Grinder Should I Use?

In order to determine which grinder is the best to use for your project, there are tips to help determine which grinder best serves your needs.  First is understanding the location of the project.  Concrete grinding can take place in either a wet or dry fashion.  Wet grinding it’s typically the safest choice as it limits the amount of debris and particulates emitted during the grinding process.  The issue with wet grinding is that it is very messy.  Ensuring that your space can handle wet grinding should be your first consideration.  Should wet grinding not be an option, it is imperative that when using a dry grinder, a dust shroud is in place to collect particulates released during the grinding process. Second is understanding how large of an undertaking this particular job is going to be.  For small spaces, handheld grinders make sense.  They are easy to use and provide efficient grinding action to get the job done. For larger spaces, like store floors or warehouses, a walk-behind grinder is the better option. Walk-behind grinders, while much larger than handheld grinders, can still be handled by one person who can manage the speed and direction of the grinder alone.  Companies like U.S. Saws manufacture walk-behind grinders that are easy to use for any contractor, including the VSG-10 Stand Up Variable Speed Grinder.

Power Source Options

Not only do grinders come and different sizes with different kinds of grinding, but they also have multiple options for power sources.  Some power source options include gas-powered, electrically run, and battery operated.  The proper power source for your grinder should be determined by the location of the job.  For smaller jobs in tight spaces or areas without access to an external power supply, a battery-operated grinder makes the most sense.  If a heavy job is on your plate that requires a lot of grinding, if the job location is well-ventilated, a gas-powered grinder would be the optimal choice, especially if there is no external electrical access.  Electrically powered grinders are the most common and are used in most standard projects.

U.S. Saws is a leader in the concrete tool business, and their inventory of concrete 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. Also, don’t forget your protective gear!  Concrete grinding can be hazardous to your health!

When you enter a construction site and notice cracks and sunken areas, it can be stressful for everyone involved. Moisture problems, improper curing, and other outside influences can cause this to happen in most areas where concrete has been placed. If you are tasked with polishing concrete or maintenance, this previous damage can make the job more difficult and time-consuming.

If the floor is not thoroughly inspected, it can cause even more damage than is already there, especially if you cannot figure out what caused the cracks and sunken areas. There are numerous ways that concrete can be damaged, so it’s important to identify this damage early. Having the right knowledge and tools for such a task can help anyone perform the job at hand.

What Leads to Concrete Damage?

1. Improper Installation

When there is an abundant amount of moisture during the mixing and curing processes, this can be a main cause of improper concrete installation. This can be caused by the contractor being in a rush, or simply not being as qualified to do the job the correct way. Signs of incorrect installation can include spalling, blisters, and crazing which causes damage that needs to be fixed before you can continue with your main project.

2. Outdoor Elements

For concrete floors that are outdoors, these are going to be constantly affected by the elements we untimely can’t control at times. Natural causes such as wind, freeze-thaw occurrences, and rain can all cause damage to these concrete floors. The continuous freeze-thaw cycle that can occur slowly breaks down concrete, which causes the cracks you might see. Moisture is the primary cause for damage because its ability to freeze. The concrete expands and puts pressure on the material inside which the end result could cause major damage.

3. Corrosion

The biggest cause of concrete deterioration is corrosion. With the reinforced concrete floors, the steel bars that are inserted can become rusted. Even though most of the time the concrete offers its own layer of protection, chloride ions from salts can reach these bars through cracks in the concrete. Because this is a typical and reoccurring issue, having the concrete be maintained and installed correctly the first time is important.

How to Protect Your Concrete:

Although damage may be uncontrollable, proper maintenance can help prevent damage from getting worse over time. As mentioned earlier, proper installation can ensure that the concrete lasts, but a quality polish can also help prevent deterioration. Proper concrete grinding is a crucial step in making sure you have the most ideal concrete surface and getting rid of any unnecessary objects in the concrete. Before starting to work on the concrete, there should always be an inspection. If you find out about the quality and age of the floor, you will be able to better assess whether you need to fill only the cracks or replace everything completely

U.S. Saws is an innovator in the tool industry.  Concrete requires the right knowledge and tools to get the job done the right way. Knowing what causes damages to these floors and how to maintain them is essential. As there are many factors to consider for your next concrete project, engaging with a company to help guide you will ensure your project is completed promptly in the right manner.   Contact U.S. Saws today to find all of your concrete floor needs!