Basements are one of the most popular finishing and remodeling projects, and concrete work often plays a big part. As spring approaches, days grow longer, the ground begins to thaw, and homeowners turn their attention to the world outside. The time is right to transform dark, underused basements into bright, accessible all-season retreats.

Here are some projects to promote, each with great opportunities for concrete and masonry contractors:

Relocating Plumbing

Finishing basements almost always involves adding a bathroom, and many homeowners will want a wet bar or even a second kitchen. Most new construction will include rough-ins, but they may not be where the customer wants them. Older homes may not have them at all. When in-floor plumbing needs to be relocated, concrete needs to be removed, and contractors have several options for getting the job done.

The best-selling Husqvarna K760 II is a gas-powered 14” hand-held power cutter that can be used in both wet and dry applications. It’s lightweight and easy to maneuver in tight spaces, and its ergonomic design means you can work longer without fatigue or vibration concerns. The wet kit (included) uses less water, resulting in less slurry, and its quiet operation, low emissions and low fuel consumption make it ideal for use in residential basements and other hard-to-access places.

For longer runs, the walk-behind Husqvarna Soff-Cut 150 saw is designed for ease of use and convenience in residential and light commercial applications. The lightest gas saw in the Soff-Cut line, the 150 features a patented low-noise, low-dust blade enclosure which allows the unit to be used in residential areas with minimal disruption. Its folding handle makes moving and transporting the saw easy.

Windows and Doors

Basements can be dark, dingy places. One of the best ways to change that is to enlarge the tiny windows that are typical in older construction. Even below-grade enlargements are easy enough with deep wells and grates, and if the finish includes living space, codes require windows large enough for emergency egress. Converting a basement into a walkout or adding a separate entrance for an in-law or rental suite means a door will need to be cut.

The Husqvarna K 3000 Cut-N-Break electric saw is perfect for doors and window openings where you want to avoid overcutting and for flush cutting close to walls. Its dual-blade breakout cutter and adjustable depth guide let you make clean cuts up to 16” deep from one side. A strong 1800-watt 120-volt motor let it cut through tough materials while running on household current or from a generator. It’s a natural choice when you need to cut deep but want a machine with low tool and maintenance costs and emission-free operation.

Adding or Moving Utilities

If the job involves penetrating concrete walls to place plumbing or electrical lines, you’ll find the Weka DK-12 core drill a valuable addition to your tool box. Its 3-speed 14-amp electric motor let this hand-held wet-cut drill core up to 3” holes (6” if mounted), and two leveling bubbles and side handles ensure accurate cutting.

Cleanup

No matter how you cut it, concrete work can be messy. That’s why a heavy-duty vacuum like one of the Pulse-Bac 500 series vacuums belong on the job. The PB-550 comes with an 8 gal. 16-gauge powder-coated steel tank that sits securely in place but can be tilted back and moved easily when needed. Their exclusive Cyclonic Debris Management System reduces filter exposure to dust and debris. The 550H model incorporates HEPA-certified twist-on filters. A tank Inspection Window and an optional Automatic Tool Start are also available. 

These are just a few of the concrete cutting, coring and finishing items available from Ace Cutting Equipment, your source for rugged, reliable concrete and masonry cutting equipment and supplies. Whatever your coring and cutting requirements may be, equipment and tools from Ace Cutting Equipment are your choice for top-quality results.

Our people know how to match cutting and coring products to your project’s needs. We have over 100 years’ combined work experience at your service to help in choosing the right tools for your job. Give us a call at (888) 283-2597 or email steve@acecutting.com and we will gladly help with any questions you may have.