Helpful Hints and Tips on Using a Road Saw to Cut Asphalt

Commonly known as concrete saw, a road saw is a type of power tool or construction equipment used for cutting concrete, masonry, brick, tiles, and other solid materials. It comes in different makes and models, including a hand-held cut-off saw and a big walk-behind saw. In most cases, this type of saw runs on petrol or hydraulic pressure, but it can also be powered by electric motors.

Because this particular type of saw is used for cutting extremely hard objects, it often comes with a diamond saw blade to ensure that the power tool will be able to cut through any type of material. After each use, experts advise contractors and saw owners to clean this particular piece of equipment.This will help prolong the saw's lifespan and ensure that the blade will remain sharp and functional.

Aside from concrete, a road saw can also be used to cut asphalt. Take note, however, that asphalt is quite different from concrete. It is softer and more abrasive. In addition, it gets hot and it can melt in, pinching the sides of the saw blades. If you're tasked to use the saw to cut asphalt, here are some practical tips you should consider.

Because asphalt can get hot during the cutting process, water can be a huge help. Prior to cutting, you can use a pressure washer to help cool down the material if need be. Although experts advise the use of water during the cutting process, this type of material can also be cut dry and without the aid of a water hose or power washer.

Diamond blades are usually used on a road saw when cutting asphalt and they are of different matrix as compared to the blades usually used when cutting concrete. For short-term use, experts recommend abrasive blades as they can also help get the job done. In case you're cutting asphalt over concrete, it is advisable that you use a general purpose blade.

On the other hand, if you are using the road saw to cut asphalt over gravel, make sure that you exercise extreme caution. According to experts, if you cut through the blacktop and the blade makes direct contact with the gravel underneath, the gravel will tumble and act as a grinding wheel dresser, wearing the blade out very fast. For this reason, make sure you don't cut too deeply. You can just make shallow cuts on the material and break the asphalt manually.This will help the blades last much longer.