Core drilling refers to cutting a rounded section of concrete, usually done to create space for new plumbing pipes, conduits, and the like. Concrete cutting may also need to be done to prepare a home's foundation for repairs or to add on a section to the home. While a do-it-yourselfer can handle concrete cutting and core drilling on their own, the job is not as easy as you might assume. Note a few questions you might have about the work and how to get it done effectively.

1. What causes segments or sections to crack?

Concrete is actually much softer than many people realize, which is why it's often easy to cut it on your own, but it can still crack in certain segments or sections as you cut or drill. This is usually because the blade you're using for the concrete is too strong or too hard. Rather than actually cutting or drilling through the concrete to make a cut, it puts pressure on the section, which then cracks. Note the strength of the blades or drill bits you're using and if they're meant for the type of concrete or cement you're cutting; you may need a different blade for softer concrete or mortar than for cutting through a home's foundation.

2. Why do diamond blades wear out more quickly than they should?

When you get diamond blades or drill bits for concrete cutting and drilling, they will usually be noted with a life expectancy of how many hours they should last. If you notice that your diamond blades or bits get soft before they should, this can often be caused by cutting material too soft for the blade itself. Diamond blades and tips get sharpened and hardened by cutting hard surfaces, so if you're cutting soft concrete or mortar with the wrong blade, it will wear out more quickly than it should.

3. Why do blades or bits wobble during concrete cutting and drilling?

Don't assume that your blades or bits should wobble during concrete cutting and drilling simply because the material is so durable. Blades and bits meant for concrete cutting should stand up to the material's density and strength; this is how they're designed. If they begin to wobble, chances are your tools have the wrong size collar for the blade or bit or they're mounted incorrectly. Check your tools for proper mounting and fittings if you notice any wobbling during cutting or drilling.

For more information and tips, contact a local core drilling company. 

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