There are plenty of instances in which you would need to have concrete cut. Tasks like repairing a sidewalk, repouring a garage floor and breaking down concrete walls are among the many instances that call for concrete to be cut. However, if you are trying to save money on the project, you'll want to do as much work yourself as possible. Fortunately, there are at least three types of concrete you can cut through without the help of a professional contractor, provided you are well equipped and patient.

Cutting Through Concrete Slab

Whenever you are redoing a garage floor or replacing a sidewalk, you'll encounter concrete slab. Slab is poured over an aggregate material of dirt and rock, so the concrete won't be more than a few inches thick.

Using a powered, circular hand-saw fitted with diamond blades, cut about an inch into the surface of the slab. Then, use a large sledge hammer to break off the concrete along the line you've made.

Cutting Through Paving Tiles

You'll encounter this type of concrete when you are working with decorative, or stamped, concrete tiles that need to be reshaped. Because the pieces need to be cut to a very exact line, you'll want to rent out a heavy-duty, freestanding masonry saw. This piece of equipment will allow you to slide the workpiece through the saw, doing all the work for you.

Cutting Through Hollow Block

This is the easiest process of the four discussed here, because hollow concrete block is generally thinner and less dense than the other types listed above. You would find yourself cutting through hollow block if you are cutting through the walls of a concrete building.

As for the process, all you'll need is a cold chisel, a small sledge hammer and a large sledge hammer. With the small sledge and the chisel, etch and outline of the shape you are cutting in the wall. Then, with the large sledge hammer, simply knock out the concrete you wish to remove. The etch will protect the concrete surface you intend to save.

Each of these three concrete materials requires different equipment and precautions, which is why many people opt to have them done by a professional. While it may be quickest and safest to have the concrete cutting job done professionally, you can cut through those types of concrete listed above, saving you money on your project.

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