Richard Smith Concrete
involved children from Inner-City Youth Programs to construct,
color and seal this project.
Tools typically
used include DeWALT, Milwaukee, Black and Decker or Mikata
handheld right-angled grinders and saws, Dremel type engraving
pins, the Kaleido'Crete systems, or the Harris Accu-Glide
concrete saw. The Engrave-A-Crete System uses specialized
electric-powered saws with diamond blades, the Kaleido-Crete
System uses pneumatically powered tools containing fine steel
rod impactors, while the Harris Accu-Guide allows cuts with
straightness of +1/32 over thirty feet. An operator can achieve
up to 5,000 linear feet of production a day with the Accu-Glide.
Star Diamond Tools also has a special convex blade used in
an angle grinder to cut circles.
Gerald Taylor, El Dorado
AR
Crafters develop their own favorite
tools and techniques. Every experienced creator of concrete
images emphasizes the importance of quality tools and diamond
blades. Inexpensive blades become expensive in the long run
because they result in chipping and rough edges. These blemishes
impair the overall quality of the job. Not getting paid because
of poor quality is one thing, what you leave behind can be
an even worse experience. Adamson says that achieving straight
lines is as simple as purchasing the proper equipment and
diamonds that are specifically designed for decorative grooving.
John Bernat, Star Diamond Tools, reminds us "high quality
diamond blades run smoother and cooler and always produce
fine clean cuts."
