Concrete Saw

Continued:

Above all, be sure you take the time to do some research on what it is you will be cutting. The type of concrete that you intend to cut should influence your decision of what blade type to buy. Characteristics that you should become familiar with include the compressive strength, aggregate hardness, and sand type used in the concrete. Knowing these attributes of the concrete, you will be better prepared to buy the appropriate blades for the job.

Diamond tipped saw blades are used for cutting hard materials such as concrete. When you shop for diamond blades, you will notice that these blades may be either "hard-bonded" or "soft-bonded." The diamonds in the blade are actually held in place by a metal matrix in the teeth of the blade. Hard bonded blades have a strong metal matrix that wears away slowly, revealing new diamond molecules slowly. A soft bonded matrix will wear away quickly, with new diamond molecules constantly brought into contact with the cutting surface.

A hard bonded saw will not be quite as sharp, but it will also last longer. Hard bond saws are appropriate when cutting through softer concrete, especially green concrete. The sand in softer concrete is not bonded as tightly to the mortar, and therefore acts as an abrasive on the blade, wearing it down quickly. Using a sharp soft bond blade on green concrete is a waste. Sharper diamond blades are the appropriate choice for concrete of a harder consistency.

If a saw is not cutting through material adequately, it may be time to replace the blade, or to file away the grit on the teeth, thereby revealing the sharper diamond. DeWalt offers diamond saw blades in 7 and 4 1/2 in. diameters, priced at $70.74 and $46.14 respectively. Larger blades, such as the Husqvarna 14", will cost you around $196.80.