Cutoff machines and diamond chainsaws are two most popular and most widely used concrete cutting equipment out there. Undoubtedly their application in the flooring industry is similar to a great extent, but one can't substitute the use of another. A clear understanding of these two types of concrete floor cutting tools is essential to make the right decision when needed:

Cut-off machines

These are handheld saws most commonly used to cut concrete, metal and asphalt. They are mostly comprised of a composite resin abrasive wheel or a diamond blade. Ideally, these machines are available in 12 or 14 inch sizes, and they can be powered by an electric motor, a 2 stroke gas engine, an air compressor or a hydraulic power unit. The selection of power source may vary based on the application site of the machine.

According to some renowned industry figures, some flooring contractors are much inclined to these electric saws as they are lightweight, less noisy and quite easy to use as compared to other types of cut-off tools available in the marketplace today, though they are not equally powerful in performance and hence may take longer to finish the job.

To the contrary, hydraulic saws have the highest power-to-weight ratio. Moreover, it is quite feasible option as the majority of the concrete flooring contractors have hydraulic power unit readily available. At the same time, we can't overlook the fact that these hydraulic saws are more expensive than pneumatic saws.

Pneumatic saws too are a sensible option as air compressors are available at every job site. It is easier to use this tool and it can cause a few potential hazards. They are lightweight and easy to maintain too. But their usage can turn out to be an expensive endeavor, due to the requirement of a compressor and the diesel fuel to power it.

Gas-powered tools bring the benefits of portability and familiarity, but they also require more maintenance, and they are bulky too! In short, there are a myriad of things that a contractor needs to be aware about when using a cut-off machine.

If you are an end user, know as much as you can about these machines before buy one of them. For some people, time is money and some simply focus on the quality. However, it is always recommended to create a right set off price, quality and time-consumption with your selection of machines.

Diamond chainsaws

It looks quite similar to a woodcutting chainsaw. As suggested by its name, the chain on a diamond chainsaw embraces diamond segments that are welded to the chain using laser technology.  The diamond segments are the main component that whittles away the concrete and other aggregate material like brick.

Diamond chainsaws have several advantages over the circular-blade concrete cutoff machines. These equipment use a guide bar with narrow, long and flat surface that enable the user to make deeper cuts with no overcut and create perfect square corners which is not possible using circular blades.

In addition to various concrete cutting tools, you will find a great variety of concrete floor grinding and polishing equipment available out there. Internet is the best platform to explore different models of concrete floor polishing machines and grinding machines. In fact, you will also find used concrete grinding equipment available for rent.

So, what's stopping you? Start browsing and make the right choice!