Decorative Concrete Cutting Equipment

Function

• Decorative concrete cutting equipment is used to design shapes such as borders and grids, or enhance finishes such as chemical stain treatments. These tools are used to shape and carve concrete in both the residential and commercial sectors. Moreover, stained, colored and textured concrete floors can be found in hotels and casinos, as well as house floors and walkways.

Types

• Equipment used for decorative concrete cutting includes circular saws, hand-held angle grinders and walk-behind saws. Blades used in these tools are typically made from diamond, which cuts large and fine pieces of concrete. Diamond blades fall into four categories: segmented, turbo, crack chasing and continuous, according to the Hanley-Wood publication “Decorative Concrete.” Walk-behind saws are larger than grinders or circular saws. These saws perform structural cuts such as control joints. Small, walk-behind saws or circular saws are used for more precise, decorative cutting. Circular saws are suitable for making designs with curves, circular shapes and arcs. Grinders are the smallest saws and are usually used for touch-up work and advanced designs. In addition, decorative cutting tools also come with vacuum attachments that clear away dust and debris created during cutting.

Skills

• Similar to paint on furniture or walls, decorative concrete cutting tools require dexterity and attention to detail. While technical skills can be learned and refined in manufacturer-sponsored workshops, knowledge of color theory and drawing is helpful in decorative concrete cutting careers.

Expert Insight

• The decorative cutting field is similar to painting and other artistic professions. It requires an initial financial investment in equipment necessary for applying different techniques and textures on concrete. Common decorative cutting equipment including floor scrubbers, shotblasters, and angle or disc grinders that can be either rented or purchased. Musselman and Hall Contractors Vice President Dexter Phillips says believes that investing in high-quality, cutting equipment pays off in the long run for professionals. In a January 2009 ForConstructionsPros.com, Phillips states, “Good, dedicated equipment can help remove the human error factor of saw cutting, ensuring you can get the best cut possible.”

Precautions

• Wear safety equipment when using cutting saws and other decorative concrete cutting tools. Thick gloves, sturdy work boots and safety goggles provide protection against sharp metal objects and spraying debris. Additional safety equipment such as ventilation masks should be worn to prevent inhalation of toxic fumes and excess dust.