The construction industry has fully embraced the ideal philosophy of working smarter, not harder. During the past couple of years in the masonry saw market, we have seen a trend toward efficiency rather than the traditional "brute force" approach.
This places a greater burden on individuals responsible for purchasing equipment at rental centers. They need to become more knowledgeable about the equipment so they can adequately provide for customers. Many people outside the industry have the perception that saws are complicated. But once you know the basics, it is fairly simple to make an informed and wise choice for your business.
There are three main categories of masonry saws: brick, block and high-speed handheld. The important features vary according to the type of saw. For brick and block saws, power source, stability and durability are important factors. When you purchase a brick saw, portability also is a critical issue. When we talk about handheld saws, important factors to consider are price, maintenance and safety.
How and where the saw is used helps to determine the power source needed. Brick and block saws are available with either a gas- or electric-power option.
Gas-powered saws are recommended for remote locations where electrical service is unavailable. These engines usually range from 7 to 8 horsepower for block saws and from 3.5 to 5.5 horsepower for brick saws.
The gas-powered engine has a major drawback - it cannot be used indoors because of carbon monoxide emissions. Therefore, if you plan to hard-wire the saw, or if you plan to use the saw inside, an electric motor is the best choice.
These motors are available in a variety of options and usually range from 5 to 7.5 horsepower with a choice of a single- or three-phase motor - depending on the voltage - for block saws and from 1 to 3 horsepower for brick saws.
Whatever your source of power, electric or gas, it is important to remember that the type and style of motor will directly affect the purchase price of the saw.
While power source is the most important factor to consider when buying a brick saw, portability is probably the second most important. In the past, brick saws were heavy and, in some cases, these saws were unmanageable by a single worker. The industry trend is to reduce the weight of current models. This is a difficult process because when reducing total weight, it is still necessary to maintain the stability of the saw. Because of this, many manufacturers recommend that a stand be used with a brick saw.
The proper stand is also important. Stands are sometimes forgotten or totally disregarded when brick saws are purchased. It is important to examine the design of the stand and to recognize that the stand is responsible for balance and equal distribution of the saw's weight. If at all possible, it is advisable to purchase a stand when you buy your brick saw. This will ensure good balance and good performance.
More rental houses are opting to carry brick saws. The reason for this may be attributed to greater portability. Today's saws are being manufactured so that they are either lighter in weight or capable of being dismantled for easier hauling.
Another contributing factor is the growing market. In the past, only the master craftsman rented these saws, but because brick saws are becoming more "user-friendly," an increase in demand is emerging created by do-it-yourselfers and nonprofessionals.
The biggest factor in choosing a high-speed saw has to be the price. It seems that everyone is in the high-speed handheld saw business today. Therefore, competitive pricing is a key issue. So how can you decide which saw to purchase? Let's make a cost vs. benefits comparison using the following factors:
* Weight: This is a primary concern, especially for the person using this saw eight or more hours per day. Theweight directly affects the rate and level of the user's fatigue. When talking about fatigue, one must also factor into the equation the level of safety - accidents tend to occur when the user is exhausted.
* Blade guard: Take a close look at the blade guard. How much of the blade does the guard cover? The more blade that is covered, the safer the saw.
* Blades: Because blades need to be changed frequently, how easily can the blade be changed? It might be worth spending a few dollars more and investing in a saw that lends itself to greater ease for blade replacement.
* Maintenance: Consider the availability of spare parts and factory-authorized service centers. Even though these saws generally look the same, their internal workings may be different.
* Design: Pick up the saw and hold it. It is important to buy one that is easy and comfortable for your customers to handle.
As the saw industry matures, it continues to be a veritable hotbed of innovation where all kinds of options are available. Like anything else, however, if price is a concern, knowledge of the basics can help you determine which masonry saw is the best for your customers.
As a guide to the life of a block or brick saw, you should expect a range of from five to 10 years, depending on how well they are maintained. These saws are a good investment for rental centers, especially now as the homeowner market continues to grow.
