How to Prepare Your Property for Concrete Cutting

Why Preparation Matters

A well-prepared work site allows your concrete cutting contractor to get started immediately, work efficiently, and complete the job on schedule. Poor preparation can result in delays, additional charges, or even the need to reschedule. Taking 30 minutes to prepare your property before the crew arrives can save hours of time and significant money.

At REDCORE Concrete Cutting & Core Drilling, we always discuss site preparation with our clients before the appointment. Here is our comprehensive guide to getting your property ready.

Interior Preparation (Basement and Indoor Work)

Clear the Work Area

The single most important thing you can do is clear the area around where the cutting will take place. We recommend clearing at least 6 to 8 feet in all directions from the cut location. This gives the crew room to set up equipment, manage water and slurry, and work safely.

• Move all furniture, storage boxes, and personal items away from the work area
• Remove shelving units, wall decorations, and anything mounted near the cut location
• Roll up or remove any rugs or floor coverings in the path between the entry point and the work area
• If items cannot be moved, cover them with heavy plastic sheeting to protect from dust and water

Protect Finished Surfaces

Concrete cutting, even with wet cutting methods, can produce some dust and water spray. Take these precautions to protect finished surfaces:

• Lay down heavy-duty plastic sheeting or drop cloths on the floor path from the entry to the work area
• Cover any finished walls within 10 feet of the cutting area
• If cutting near drywall or painted surfaces, consider taping plastic sheeting to the walls and ceiling
• Remove or cover electronics and appliances in the area

Address Water Management

Most professional concrete cutting uses water to cool the diamond blade and control dust. This water mixes with concrete particles to form a slurry that must be managed. For interior work:

• Ensure floor drains are accessible and functioning, if available
• Ask your concrete cutting contractor about their water management plan for your specific project
• For basement floor cutting, make sure the sump pump is working if one is present
• Be prepared for some water on the floor during and immediately after cutting, this is normal

Exterior Preparation

Driveway, Sidewalk, and Patio Work

• Move vehicles out of the work area and the immediate vicinity
• Clear the cutting area of planters, outdoor furniture, grills, and decorations
• Ensure the concrete cutting crew has a place to park their truck and trailer close to the work area
• If sprinklers are present near the cutting area, mark their locations so they are not damaged
• Discuss runoff and slurry management, as concrete slurry should not be allowed to enter storm drains

Foundation Wall Work (Exterior Access)

• Clear landscaping and bushes away from the foundation wall where work will be performed
• Ensure the area is excavated to the required depth if cutting for egress windows or below-grade penetrations
• Provide a level work surface for the crew to set up equipment on
• Coordinate with any excavation contractors to ensure their work is complete before the cutting crew arrives

Utilities and Safety

• Mark buried utilities: If any cutting will be near the ground surface, call 811 (Dig Safe) to have underground utilities marked. This is free and required by Massachusetts law.
• Locate embedded utilities: Know where electrical wiring, plumbing, and gas lines run inside walls and floors that will be cut. If in doubt, have them located by a professional before cutting begins.
• Provide electrical access: Concrete cutting equipment typically requires 20-amp 110V power. Ensure an outlet is available within 100 feet of the work area, or discuss power requirements with your contractor in advance.
• Water supply: Wet cutting requires a water connection. A garden hose connection within 100 feet is usually sufficient. Discuss water supply with your contractor.

Communication and Coordination

• Confirm the appointment date, time, and scope of work with your contractor a day or two before the job
• Be present or have a designated representative on site who can make decisions if questions arise
• If the concrete cutting is part of a larger project, coordinate scheduling with your general contractor, plumber, or other trades
• Inform neighbors if the work will produce noise, as concrete sawing can be loud
• Make arrangements for children and pets to be away from the work area during cutting

Day-of Checklist

• Work area cleared of all items and obstructions
• Floor and wall protection in place for interior work
• Vehicles moved away from exterior work areas
• Electrical outlet accessible and tested
• Water supply available and tested
• Utility locations known and marked
• Pets and children secured away from the work area
• Someone available on site to answer questions

If you have questions about preparing for a concrete cutting project, the REDCORE team is always happy to walk you through the process. We provide clear preparation instructions specific to your project when you schedule your appointment. Call us today to get started.