A Sawzall is also known as a reciprocating saw. It’s a great tool for cutting concrete. However, there are a few things you need to know in order to make the most of this powerful tool.
In this blog post, we will go over the basics of using a reciprocating saw to cut through concrete, as well as some tips and tricks for getting the job done right.
So whether youre a contractor who needs to cut through a concrete slab or just someone who wants to know how to use their reciprocating saw more effectively, read on for all the information you need.
Step By Step Instructions On How To Cut Concrete Using A Reciprocating Saw:
These are the steps
Choose The Blade
First, you need to choose the correct blades for your job. Reciprocating saw blades come in a variety of shapes and sizes, so you dont want to use a metal cutting blade when all youre going to do is cut through wood. This will not only slow down your progress but also damage the blade unnecessarily.
Its best if you have an idea of how much cutting needs to be done before you buy anything because different kinds/sizes of blades are designed for different kinds/sizes of jobs theres no point in buying a giant-sized Sawzall blade if all you need it for is cutting up some scrap lumber or drywall.
If the blade is damaged or worn, replace it.
A blade sharpener might be worth the investment if you have a lot of blades. A Sawzall blade sharpener will save you time and money. Simply remove your old blade and insert a new one.
Hold The Saw Correctly
Holding the saw in your hands, ensure that both the handle and the handle are securely held. To make the saw more comfortable, you can purchase an over-molded grip or wrap rubber/foam around each handle.
Disable The Battery
Its best to remove the battery when not using the Sawzall, or at least unplug it if this isnt possible. If your batteries are fully charged and youre just about to walk away from them, then try leaving them in place so that they can charge up while youre out of the way. Some contractors jump on their saw every 5 minutes only to find that it doesnt start because they forgot to take the battery(ies) out.
Dont Fight Against Already Cut Materials
When cutting through previously cut materials (i.e., rebar), make sure you dont push too hard. It will either bend or break your blade, or cause it to catch and fling back at the you.
Cut From The Bottom Up
It is best to start at the bottom, then work your way upwards when cutting concrete slabs. This will prevent cracks or chips in the slab from running all the way up to its top surface when youve cut everything away that was holding it together. This gives you the chance to stop and fix any issues before you go through the whole thing.
Clean-up After Use
When using a reciprocating saw, clean up after yourself as you would with any other power tool. Not only is this good for safety reasons (to avoid accidents), but it also prolongs the life of your blade(s). Just make sure that you let your blade(s) cool off before doing so, and always unplug them first.
Safety Tips
Always wear safety goggles and gloves, as well as earmuffs if youre working with a loud saw. Protect yourself against accidental cuts and debris/dust flying through the air by wearing long sleeves and long pants.
Make sure your work area is clear of anyone else before starting (and unplug your saw if youre working solo). Make sure there are no other people nearby who could get caught in the blade/fly-back.
Never touch the tip of your blade after cutting through something it will be very hot. You should also avoid pushing against anything while cutting. This could cause debris/dust/heat to fall on your eyes, face, and hands.
Before you plug in the saw, ensure that both the handle and blade are securely fastened. You should never carry a plugged in saw with its cord, or pull on it while you are cutting. This could cause damage to the cords and battery.
FAQs:
How Do You Adjust The Depth Of Your Cuts When Working With Concrete?
If your cuts arent as deep as you would like them to be, it may be time to replace your blade(s). If you notice that your cuts are not as deep as you would like, check the ends of the blade for any material.
Are There Any Special Blades That Work Better On Concrete?
While all reciprocating saw blades are designed for cutting through a variety of materials, there are some that work exceptionally well with concrete.
These include: High-speed steel (HSS) blades known for their durability and performance
Bi-metal blades strong enough to be used on metal up to
How Long Does A Reciprocating Saw Blade Last?
Most saw blades will produce between 1200-1600 cuts. We have some tips for maximizing the lifespan of your blades, so check them out if youd like to make your blade(s) last longer.
What Are Some Tips For Avoiding Mistakes When Cutting Concrete With A Reciprocating Saw?
There are plenty of mistakes that one can make when cutting through concrete (weve given a few examples). Although we wouldn’t recommend that you learn from your mistakes, there are certain things that will happen. Heres how to avoid them:
Make sure your blade(s) is/are securely fastened if it/they fall off or pops out while cutting, it/they could fly back and knock the saw right out of your hands.
Be aware of falling debris and allow plenty of space to maneuver around concrete slabs, both above and below, in the event that any chucks are lost during cutting.
Make sure theres no one nearby that may get caught in the blade even a stray long sleeve could get cut.
Do not just talk yourself along straight lines. You may get distracted or lose your focus on what you are doing next.
Conclusion:
In this article, we showed you how to cut a cinder block with a reciprocating saw. The key to cutting cinder blocks with a reciprocating saw is choosing the right blade and following these steps. Safety is essential when cutting any material. Use caution and use the right safety gear.
