Concrete Cutting for Restaurant Renovations: A Complete Guide for Owners and Contractors

Why Restaurant Projects Need Extensive Concrete Cutting

Restaurant construction and renovation projects are among the most concrete-cutting-intensive commercial build-outs. A typical restaurant or commercial kitchen requires dozens of floor penetrations for drains and waste lines, wall penetrations for exhaust systems and utilities, and slab cuts for grease trap installation and plumbing rough-ins. Understanding the scope of concrete cutting early in the planning process helps restaurant owners and general contractors budget accurately and schedule efficiently.

At REDCORE Concrete Cutting & Core Drilling, we work with restaurant contractors throughout Springfield, MA and Western Massachusetts on new restaurant build-outs, renovations, and kitchen remodels. This guide outlines the typical concrete cutting requirements for restaurant projects.

Kitchen Plumbing Rough-In

Commercial kitchen plumbing is far more complex than residential plumbing, with multiple sinks, floor drains, and waste connections required by the Massachusetts plumbing code (248 CMR). Concrete cutting for kitchen plumbing typically includes:

• Floor drain trenches: Commercial kitchens require multiple floor drains throughout the cooking, prep, and dishwashing areas. Trench cuts through the slab provide access for drain line installation.
• Three-compartment sink waste lines: The three-compartment sink required in every commercial kitchen needs properly sized waste piping beneath the slab.
• Pre-rinse and dishwasher drains: These fixtures require their own drain connections through the floor slab.
• Hand wash sinks: Health codes require dedicated hand wash sinks in food preparation areas, each requiring drain and supply penetrations.
• Mop sink and floor sink drains: Utility sinks and indirect waste connections require additional floor penetrations.

Grease Trap and Grease Interceptor Access

Massachusetts health and plumbing codes require grease interceptors for commercial kitchens to prevent fats, oils, and grease from entering the sanitary sewer system. Depending on the system type, concrete cutting may be needed for:

• Slab cutting for in-floor grease trap installation
• Trench cuts connecting kitchen drains to the grease interceptor
• Penetrations through foundation walls for piping to exterior grease interceptors

Exhaust Hood and Ventilation Penetrations

Commercial kitchen exhaust hoods require ductwork penetrations through the roof structure or exterior walls. When these structures are concrete, core drilling is needed. Restaurant HVAC also requires make-up air system penetrations and bathroom exhaust penetrations through concrete walls or ceilings.

Bar Area Concrete Cutting

Bar installations require their own set of concrete cutting for drain lines, supply piping, and sometimes beer line routing. Common bar-area cuts include trench cuts for bar sink drains, floor drain installations, and supply line penetrations for the ice machine and glass washer.

Scheduling Concrete Cutting in Restaurant Build-Outs

Concrete cutting should be one of the first activities in a restaurant build-out after demolition is complete. The plumbing rough-in cannot proceed until the slab is cut and trenched, and virtually every other trade depends on the plumbing rough-in being complete. Delays in concrete cutting cascade through the entire project timeline.

The most efficient approach is to have the plumber complete the full plumbing layout, mark all trench and penetration locations, and then schedule the concrete cutting crew to perform all cuts in a single mobilization. This batch approach is far more cost-effective than multiple trips and keeps the project moving forward.

Minimizing Disruption in Operating Restaurants

For renovations in restaurants that continue operating during construction, concrete cutting must be scheduled during closed hours. The noise and dust from slab cutting are incompatible with food service operations. REDCORE offers after-hours and weekend scheduling for operating restaurant renovations, with thorough cleanup so the dining area is ready for service the following day.

Code Compliance Considerations

Restaurant construction involves oversight from multiple code authorities, including the building department, plumbing inspector, health department, and fire marshal. All concrete cutting for plumbing, exhaust, and structural modifications must support code-compliant installations. Working with experienced contractors who understand restaurant-specific code requirements, including those set by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) for kitchen exhaust systems, prevents costly rework and inspection failures.

REDCORE for Restaurant Projects

REDCORE Concrete Cutting & Core Drilling provides comprehensive concrete cutting services for restaurant construction and renovation projects throughout Western Massachusetts. From kitchen plumbing rough-ins to exhaust penetrations, we deliver the precise cuts your restaurant project requires. Contact us early in your project planning to discuss scope, scheduling, and pricing.