Cobra Concrete

Cobra Concrete Cutting Announces “Coming Soon” Valparaiso, Indiana Location to Support Growing Demand Across Northwestern, Central and Southern Indiana

Thu, 22 Jan 2026 18:24:21 GMT

Valparaiso, IN 01/21/2026 Cobra Concrete Cutting Services Co. is proud to announce a new location coming soon to Valparaiso, Indiana , expanding its footprint and strengthening service capabilities across the region. While the new facility is currently under renovation , Cobra technicians are already actively servicing customers throughout Northwest, Central and Southern Indiana , including South Bend, Fort Wayne, Indianapolis, and Lafayette, Terre Haute and Evansville.

This expansion reinforces Cobra’s commitment to providing fast response times, highly trained union labor, and industry-leading concrete cutting solutions for commercial, industrial, infrastructure, and municipal projects throughout the state.

“Our goal is simple — be closer to our customers and continue delivering the safest and most professional concrete cutting services in the industry,” said Dan Foley, President. “With technicians already working throughout Indiana, this new Valparaiso location will allow us to better support the region with quicker dispatching, improved logistics, and increased capacity.”

Cobra Concrete Cutting is a union contractor and is fully licensed in the State of Indiana , allowing the company to provide a complete range of services, including but not limited to:

Concrete Sawing and Drilling
Ground Penetrating Radar
Electric Excavation
Robotic Demolition
Utility Locating
Concrete Flatwork

The Valparaiso facility will serve as a regional hub for crews and equipment, ensuring customers receive the same high standards Cobra is known for — including safety-first operations, jobsite professionalism, and reliable scheduling.

Additional updates, including the official grand opening date, will be announced as renovations progress.

About Cobra Concrete Cutting Services Co.

Cobra Concrete Cutting Services Co. is a professional concrete sawing, drilling, and selective demolition contractor serving customers across the Midwest and beyond. Cobra is committed to safe work practices, experienced union labor, and dependable execution on projects of all sizes.

Our Mission : To revolutionize the concrete sawing & drilling industry through our innovation and attitude, and provide a level of service & passion that our customers, our employees, and our community desire to experience...

Media Contact

Dan Foley
President
Cobra Concrete Cutting Services Co.
Phone: 773-775-1111
Email: danfoley@cobraconcrete.com
Website: www.cobraconcrete.com

danfoley@cobraconcrete.com

Cobra Concrete Cutting Services Co. Cuts a Deal with Precision Concrete Cutting LLC

Fri, 16 Jun 2023 19:38:00 GMT

CHICAGO, June 16, 2023 – Cobra Concrete Cutting Services Co., one of the leading concrete sawing, drilling, and ground penetrating radar contractors in the Midwest, announced today the acquisition of Precision Concrete Cutting LLC, a full-service union contractor specializing in core drilling, slab sawing, and wall sawing. The acquisition, effective June 16, 2023, will see Cobra Concrete Cutting purchasing all assets and continuing employment for all existing Precision Concrete Cutting employees. Mike Walther of Precision Concrete Cutting will also be continuing employment to focus on relationships and prospects with Precision Concrete Cutting’s customers, as well as offering the expanded services Cobra Concrete Cutting has to offer.

The acquisition of Precision Concrete Cutting will enable Cobra Concrete Cutting to expand its market share and gain access to an additional skilled workforce. Furthermore, the acquisition will double the size of operations in the Greater Milwaukee market, solidifying its position as a premier service provider in the region. Cobra Concrete Cutting will now be able to offer its expanded services to Precision Concrete Cutting’s customers, including ground penetrating radar, concrete services, robotic demolition, wire sawing and more.

Cobra Concrete Cutting Services Co. has successfully evolved into one of the largest concrete sawing and drilling contractors in the Midwest. With over 20 years of experience, innovation, and vast industry knowledge, they take pride in delivering exceptional service to their customers. With their forward-thinking approach, their team stays current through top-notch training on new equipment, technology, and job site safety. Cobra Concrete Cutting Services Co. is truly cutting the industry out of the stone age.

Precision Concrete Cutting LLC was founded in 2004 by Mike and Leslie Walther. From the very beginning, they placed a strong emphasis on creating a work environment that fostered a sense of community and family. They wanted their customers to feel special and valued and their service technicians to feel like they were an integral part of the team. This focus on customer service and employee satisfaction helped Precision Concrete Cutting to grow and establish itself as a major player in the Milwaukee market.

“We are so excited to combine our two top-notch teams in the Greater Milwaukee and Madison markets to continue our growth and give our employees, customers and community the service and passion they desire to experience,” said Dan Foley, President of Cobra Concrete Cutting.

About Cobra Concrete

Cobra Concrete Cutting Services Co. is a privately owned company that was founded in 1999 and has since become one of the largest concrete sawing and drilling contractors in the Midwest, with offices in Milwaukee, Madison, Rockford, Bloomington, and the Greater Chicagoland Area. With over 20 years of experience, innovation, and extensive industry knowledge, Cobra Concrete Cutting is dedicated to delivering exceptional results to its customers’ job sites. As a proud member of CSDA and with affiliations to several professional and trade associations, the company upholds the highest industry standards while also actively engaging with and contributing to the communities it serves. Cobra Concrete Cutting’s mission is to revolutionize the concrete sawing and drilling industry through its innovation and attitude and provide a level of service and passion that its customers, employees, and communities desire to experience.

For media inquiries and further information, please contact:

Dan Foley; Cobra Concrete Cutting Services Co., President

danfoley@cobraconcrete.com

The Progressive Office: Why the Open Office Trend is Dying

Fri, 12 Jul 2019 15:44:00 GMT

Not long ago, cubicles were torn down and private offices were abolished to make way for the open-office concept revival – in hopes that a shared space would inspire incredible collaboration and creativity.

However, today, the open office is dying. Researchers have begun pushing back against the concept. This pushback may eventually lead to the demise of the open office, ultimately raising the question: what is the future of the progressive office?

the Open Office Trend Explained

Invented in the 1950s, the open office existed before cubicles. The concept was birthed in Germany and quickly influenced the U.S. In response to the largely unsuccessful idea, Herman Miller, a furniture design company, created the “Action Office” in 1964. After some tweaking, the Action Office faintly resembled what we recognize as a cubicle. Wired writer Nikil Saval commented, “Action Office II was Propst’s [from Herman Miller] attempt to give form to the office worker’s desire. A ‘workstation’ for the ‘human performer,’ it consisted of three walls, obtusely angled and movable, which an office worker could arrange to create whatever workspace he or she wanted.” Propst’s design took off. Unfortunately, as it expanded, knock-off Action Offices misused what Herman Miller designed for workplace freedom into the soul-draining cubicles we know (and dislike).

Like a pendulum, swinging from one extreme to the next, the past decade saw a modern open-office concept revival in response. Then, at the end of 2014, The Washington Post exclaimed that the “open-office trend is destroying the workplace.” The call for controlled spaces designed for individualistic work once again rippled through the public.

Why Do Open Offices Still Exist?

If research shows that the open-office concept tends to decrease productivity, why does it still exist? Simply because they do have certain benefits. The idea that every member of a company, from the new-hire to the CEO, is working in the same space, on the same level is attractive. In general, open office spaces are less expensive because individual desks aren’t required. Fast Company writes, “According to Humanyze, open plans are great at encouraging interaction between teams, which is useful when a company is trying to create new products.” However, when other forms are work are required, such as writing or one-on-one client communication, the space becomes harmful.

So, what’s the solution?

What’s the Future of the Progressive Office?

The future of the progressive office will probably look like a combination of the collaborative open-office concept and the solitary workspace of the cubicle. This will provide employees with space to be collectively innovative and space to work when individual focus is required. The open-office concept alone may be dying – but integrating the collaboration philosophy into quiet workspaces is the future of the progressive office.

Cobra Concrete Cutting

At Cobra Concrete Cutting , we are passionate about understanding the latest trends. We, too, seek to evolve our industry, cutting it from the stone age with the world around us. Utilizing top-notch technology, we set industry standards. Contact us today with your project needs – we cannot wait to partner with you.

Innovations in the Industry: Husqvarna Digital Fleet Management

Thu, 13 Jun 2019 13:35:00 GMT

In any industry, staying in control of your fleet is crucial to success. Perhaps an obvious example, the military functions under a tight command to effectively complete missions.

Though fundamentally different, the concrete cutting industry requires control as well, especially for large and quickly expanding companies who want to be one step ahead. The Husqvarna Fleet Services system is a cutting-edge industry innovation that allows goal-oriented concrete service companies to function under complete order.

What is Husqvarna Digital Fleet Management?

Husqvarna is an innovative business, dedicated to helping companies manage their machine fleets well. Husqvarna’s digital fleet management system “collects and presents data regarding your machine fleet,” allowing for full connection among your entire team. Husqvarna management involves monitoring fleet inventory, runtime and utilization rates, machine availability, and service planning. Listed below are a few benefits of connecting your machines via this management system:

Inventory Control

Husqvarna Fleet Services allows you to maintain an equipment inventory – in one location. No need for paperwork, folders, and structural confusion. With Husqvarna inventorying, all your equipment can be itemized in one place. Each specific kind of machine, serial number, and the number of each machine is listed in a single location. Incorporating digital inventorying is part of becoming a company of the future.

Machine Location

When a bulk of your fleet is deployed, keeping track of where your equipment was last utilized is important. While employing Husqvarna Fleet Services, each piece of equipment is fitted with a sensor that connects via Bluetooth to a smartphone with the Fleet Services app. As soon as the sensor connects with the smartphone, that specific machine is registered.

Once your equipment is registered, preparing to launch another job is a breeze. Simply check your app. What equipment is on standby? What equipment is being utilized in another location? Where is each individual machine at work?

Machine Statistics

Each sensor also tracks the hours that each piece of equipment in your digital inventory has been utilized. This assists in damage control. Knowing what machines are used the most allows you to even wear and tear among your entire fleet. Which machines are the favorites? Which machines tend to sit at the warehouse? Why? How can your performance be optimized? All these questions can be answered through the seamless collection of data.

Service Overview

Along with a digital inventory, you can keep track of your equipment’s service history. You can easily set up reminders, based on engine hours, to keep your machinery in ideal condition. This frees you from tracking your own service schedule – and ensures that your equipment is prepared for any jobs that come your way.

The Future of the Concrete Industry

At Cobra Concrete Cutting , we’ve been determined to cut the industry out of the stone age for over 20 years. That’s why we appreciate cutting-edge industry innovations. Husqvarna technology is built for fleet connection. Fleet connection allows you to stay in control of your team, optimize for future jobs, and achieve total productivity. We seek to set industry standards and realize these goals. In need of excellent concrete sawing or drilling services? Contact us at Cobra Concrete Cutting today!

Innovations in the Industry: 3D Concrete Home Printing

Tue, 28 May 2019 19:00:00 GMT

Did you know that, in a single day, a 3D-printed concrete home can be erected where only earth lay before? Did you know a home can be printed for under $5,000? Did you know that the entire concrete industry is under “renovation?”

Recently, the concrete industry and brilliant innovators have merged to solve a worldwide crisis: the severe lack of housing. ICON , an audacious team dedicated to revolutionizing homebuilding, is working to provide dignified housing around the world—with 3D concrete home printing.

ICON

ICON is dedicated to fighting the lack of housing by reinventing the homebuilding industry, an industry stuck in antiquity since the Middle Ages. They are successful in this endeavor. In 2018, they were the first American company to build a 3D printed home.

ICON focuses on three primary goals: affordability, sustainability, and availability. These goals directly correlate to three vital problems. Affordability—most people cannot purchase homes. According to U.S. News , nearly 40% of people cannot afford basic necessities. Sustainability battles against wasteful homebuilding. According to the National Association of Homebuilders (NAHB), thousands of pounds of materials are wasted from constructing homes. 3D concrete home printing severely limits waste.

Finally, making homes readily available can help end homelessness. Even in our modern world, over 1 billion people (or 1 in every 7) don’t have tolerable shelter. No one deserves to live in survival mode. This is why incredible innovations, such as 3D concrete home printing, are required to address such a prevalent issue.

The Vulcan II

The Vulcan II printer is the magnum opus of 3D printing. This incredible machine is “capable of 3D printing entire communities with up to 2,000 square foot homes,” ICON writes. Though it sounds like fiction, homes can literally be printed now—quickly and efficiently. The printer is commercially available for construction and, though quite large, is transportable.

Lavacrete II

ICON has developed a cement-based mixture, used in its 3D concrete home printers. Lavacrete is not just a typical building material. It is easily made, structurally sound, resilient, and resistant to time, natural disasters, and intense weather. Lavacrete may be the perfect material for housing across the world.

New Story

New Story is a non-profit organization and partner of ICON, also passionate about ending homelessness. The non-profit has been in the business of fashioning homes for those in need for years. However, the organization quickly realized that incredible innovations had to be pursued to truly tackle such a huge crisis. Especially due to ICON’s Lavacrete, which utilizes easily accessible ingredients, New Story latched on to the company’s Vulcan design. Armed with new technology, New Story can build homes for impoverished communities for less than $5,000—in 24 hours. This innovation in the concrete industry is on its way to alleviating a real-world crisis.

Concrete Services

Cobra Concrete Cutting Services is devoted to staying on top of the latest trends, which is why we are thrilled about this incredible concrete industry innovation. We, too, seek to cut the concrete industry out of the stone age through revolutionary service and attitudes. We provide the excellent work that every customer deserves. If you have any questions about our concrete services, contact us today .

What to Do Before Drilling in Concrete

Mon, 20 May 2019 14:29:00 GMT

When planning to drill or cut into concrete, the preparation period is crucial and should always begin by utilizing a ground penetrating radar (GPR) .

A GPR survey can accurately gather and record data in a safe, non-invasive way, which the GPR technician can then use to layout the mechanical and structural components of the slab. How does the GPR work? Why is it so crucial? Before drilling in concrete, make sure you review this simple explanation of the history of pre-drilling techniques, what a GPR is, why utilizing GPR services is crucial (and the adverse effects of not using it), and how an excellent scanning job should be performed at a new jobsite.

History of GPR Technology

Before the early 19 ^th century, most concrete workers didn’t have any comprehensive pre-drilling or sawing practices, and they wouldn’t have known the necessary precautions to take before making penetrations into concrete. GPR is an incredible geophysical technology, is a relatively recent creation that has grown in maturity over the past couple of decades. When Christian Hülsmeyer received the very first patent in radar technology in 1904, he probably never imagined what it would become. Initially, his system was used by others to find buried objects, the perfect tool to bring to a treasure hunt.

In 1929, the radar technology was implemented in scientific research, such as measuring the depth of glaciers. After WWII, it was drafted for military use. Using subsurface technology, scientific groups would intensely study the ground for tunnels. Finally, industrial services adopted the technology as well. At last, a comprehensive pre-drilling practice could be implemented.

Since 1970, GPR technology has been further used for archaeology, military purposes, and—of course—industrial scanning.

What Does a GPR Do?

How does a GPR work? The name is fairly self-explanatory. Similar to a bat’s echolocation, ground penetrating radar utilizes a radio transmitting antenna to send high-frequency signals into the surface of the earth. These signals are then reflected off any obstacles in the ground, bouncing back to the GPR receiver, which then allows the scanning tech to interpret the raw data and mark the objects located in 2D form in real time on the structure itself.

GSSI , a high-quality GPR equipment provider, explains in detail how a ground penetrating radar system records signals: “The strength, or amplitude, of the reflection is determined by the contrast in the dielectric constants and conductivities of the two materials. This means that a pulse which moves from dry sand (dielectric of 5) to wet sand (dielectric of 30) will produce a very strong reflection, while moving from dry sand (5) to limestone (7) will produce a relatively weak reflection.”

With proper interpretation, these recorded signals show scanning technicians the location and depth of targets within the concrete. Subsequently, various GPR equipment is utilized, depending on the depth of the structure being surveyed. Scanning technicians can identify various potential conflicts, including post tension cables, conduit, rebar, beams and radiant heat lines.

Concrete core drilling procedure

Concrete core drilling is a specialized service offered by companies that know their way around cutting concrete. They use a concrete drill to pull out a chunk of concrete, also known as a core.

For concrete core drilling, the go-to tool is the diamond core drill. This tool comes in handy when you need to:

Install recessed lights and fixtures
Cut through walls, floors, and ceilings for plumbing, HVAC, cables, electricity, and communication services
Examine bits of concrete
Dig holes in roadways for doweling, drainage, or tying in some rebar
To make sure things are spot-on, the concrete cutting technician uses a small threaded anchor to secure the drill post to the wall or concrete slab. Then, they bolt the drill post to guide the core drilling.

This setup ensures the drill hits the target dead-on, giving you a smooth core. Once the drill post is secure, the technician attaches the right drill bit based on what the client needs. With the bit in place, they fire up the drill. Water keeps things cool during drilling, and pressure on the crank gets the job done.

The core drill has a hand crank that moves the drill to the surface, cutting through the concrete. Once the surface is pierced, out comes the core with the bit.

Why Scan Before Drilling in Concrete?

Safety: Many extraneous objects can impede drilling into concrete , such as electrical conduits, rebar, pvc or metal pipes, and post tension cables. These embedded items can prove dangerous if not identified before any drilling is done. A GPR will locate reinforced steel (rebar or post tension cables). These spots can then be marked and entirely avoided. Electrical conduits are essential to find too. If conduits are cut or damaged, severe power outages can occur. More importantly, coming in contact with a subsurface object could seriously injure concrete workers.

Time: If not addressed before a job has begun, running across subsurface objects can be time-consuming to deal with. Hitting an object could significantly delay your progress – a detriment for timely projects.

Money: A clear and accurate idea of the project will indicate exactly how many resources are required. Your client will know what to expect. Furthermore, a de layed project can incur extraneous costs.

What Does an Excellent Scanning Job Consist Of?

Visual Scan: Survey the entire space you’re about to work in. During a preliminary walkthrough, taking note of visual clues, such as the integrity (or lack thereof) of the concrete, can determine what GPR methods should be used in your next step.

GPR Scan: After your visual walkthrough, GPR technology can be implemented to complete a sub-surface search. All embedded objects will be recognized, data recorded.

Analyzing Scans: All GPR data should now be carefully analyzed. As mentioned, reinforced steel, electrical conduits, and pipes should all be permanently marked on the surface of the concrete. Pictures should be taken and a layout can be drawn. As a concrete drilling company, your employees should never have to guess where to drill or cut. As a client, you should never have to wonder what the final product will look like. Utilizing GPR services is essential for both these goals to be accomplished.

Your Concrete Cutting Service Resource

GPR scanning is not infallible. However, utilizing it prior to drilling in concrete can reduce unnecessary costs, preserve time, and (quite literally) save lives. We understand this. Our team is dedicated to complete customer satisfaction—and the safe, responsible completion of concrete projects. At Cobra Concrete Cutting, we employ GPR services readily. Our scanning division efficiently and accurately scans a jobsite, utilizing GSSI equipment, in up to 16” thick concrete. Thicker slabs may be scanned from both sides if available. Ultimately, our mission is to revolutionize the concrete industry through a unique level of service and passion. We strive for excellence and safety. For more information, request a quote or give us a call!

Receive a FREE Quote On Your Next Job

We pride ourselves on our commitment to complete client satisfaction and safety, and we have the reputation and track record to prove it.

Should You Be Renting Out Office Space?

Tue, 14 May 2019 19:20:00 GMT

Trends change with the times, an ebb and flow of choices and decisions. In the business world, certain trends stick. These are the ones that provide the greatest advantages. These are the cutting-edge decisions that truly benefit a business.

Recently, office spaces have been changing both inside and out. On the inside, businesses are capturing a new aesthetic: a modern, sleek, comfortable space that promotes creativity and energy. Beyond aesthetics, business owners are catching on to the trend of renting or leasing office spaces. While not the ideal solution for every company, renting or leasing an office space is a growing trend because of the advantages it provides.

Advantages of Renting OUT Office Space

Freedom of location. Where will your business thrive? What city will become the hub of commerce for your company? Are there other corporations surrounding your business that could form a network with you? Finding an office space to rent or lease, as opposed to searching for and purchasing a commercial building, gives business owners freedom to pick an optimized location. When your lease expires, you can make a key decision: stay in your current office or move. You have total freedom.

Fewer upfront expenses. This advantage can be extremely beneficial for entrepreneurs and small businesses, without a plethora of funds to pour into a commercial office space. Furthermore, sometimes rates are negotiable. You have more freedom to work with your personal resources. With no real estate costs, you can dedicate more capital to business. While buying might be an option in the future, renting is an ideal, flexible first step.

No wasted time. Business owners, from early entrepreneurs to experienced CEOs—know that unnecessary time spent moving is—quite literally—wasted opportunity to increase capital. Some rentable office spaces are already established with furniture and office amenities. Less time spent selecting furniture and purchasing office supplies is valuable time gained for business.

Fewer responsibilities. Not only will your office space probably be established with some furnishings, office maintenance—such as security, cleaning, and space management—will be off your plate.

Less paperwork. Paperwork is a necessity for most of life, especially in the business world. Less time spent filling out tax forms is more time earned for other tasks.

Should I rent An office space: Tips for Renting

Now that the advantages of renting or leasing office space are explained, how does a business owner make a smart decision?

Once again, consider location . What amenities are important to have close by? Where do your employees live? These are all questions to consider before putting down your first payment.

Think about aesthetic. Does the “feel” of the office fit your team? If you plan on purchasing your own furniture or office supplies, account for those extra costs.

Consider parking. If your employees drive to work, ensure that parking is readily available.

cobra concrete: A Business That Cares

At Cobra Concrete Cutting Services , we understand the value of growing trends in the business world. We work with a wide variety of companies in Chicagoland, central Illinois, and Milwaukee to enhance their aesthetic. We specialize in concrete sawing, drilling, removal, and patching. Our goal: complete customer satisfaction. If you have any questions about our services, send us a message today !

Concrete Demolition and Removal: What To Know

Tue, 20 Feb 2018 18:56:00 GMT

If the phrase “concrete demolition” brings to mind a single construction worker with a jackhammer, you may be surprised to learn about some of the high-tech concrete breaking tools available today.

Whether you have a large or small commercial job, utilizing these processes can make your project go more quickly and much more smoothly. Read on to learn more about today’s concrete demolition and removal technologies.

Robotic Concrete Demolition

Many concrete surfaces in need of removal are irregular, uneven, or otherwise difficult to access. The availability of remote-controlled concrete-breaking robots can make any demolition project simpler and safer. Robotic demolition can make short work of even the largest concrete removal projects, avoiding the scheduling hassles and other headaches that can often be inherent in any large-scale construction job.

Using robotic concrete demolition services can also be useful if you’re only planning to remove or replace part of a concrete surface. By programming the demolition robot to cut and break only the concrete you want to get rid of, you’ll be able to ensure a clean, professional-looking cut rather than having to mark and repeatedly measure the area yourself.

Skid Steer Concrete Removal

When the surface you need to remove is raised or ultra-thick, using a skid steer to lift chunks of concrete and move them is often the most efficient way to accomplish the job. If your project involves some cramped areas a skid steer just can’t access, technicians may opt to saw the concrete into smaller pieces so it can be removed by hand rather than by machine.

Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR)

Nothing can put a wedge in a concrete demolition project like inadvertently drilling into a sewer line or, worse, a live electrical wire. By using ground penetrating radar to literally see through the concrete before you start sawing or drilling, you’ll be able to avoid complications and any damage to the demolition equipment from unexpected obstructions.

This radar is able to quickly generate, compile, and store data on underground or internal obstructions, giving contractors a 3D view of the concrete they’re preparing to remove.

Post-Removal Cleanup

Concrete demolition and removal can be a messy process even under the best of conditions, and not all companies will help with cleanup. But some, like Cobra Concrete, will restore your job site with their quality removal services.

If these technological advances in the concrete demolition and removal industry have you considering a new project, give Cobra Concrete a call. Cobra Cutting Services Co. is a full-service concrete sawing and drilling contractor in the Chicagoland area; we offer concrete breaking and removal (including robotic demolition and skid steer removal), GPR, and a variety of other concrete cutting-related services.

Wall Sawing Versus Wire Sawing

Fri, 02 Feb 2018 19:33:00 GMT

While both wall and wire are forms of concrete sawing, they are two very different methods, which are not interchangeable.

Sawing needs can vary from the shape, size, depth, and other necessary specifics such as noise level and location of sawing needed. Which method is right for your specific concrete cutting needs? We want to clear up any confusion about the differences and uses of wall and wire sawing.

Wall Sawing

The uses of wall sawing typically include cutting windows, doors, openings for HVAC, various building modifications such as elevators, stair openings, and separation cuts for demolition. Wall saws are track mounted and demonstrate incredibly precise dimensions in nearly all areas of a building, namely walls, floors, roof, beams, and footings. Cobra Concrete’s wall saws have the capability to create incisions up to 36” from one side at any angle and can even cut flush to adjacent surfaces.

We have hydraulic and electric capabilities that can cut through reinforced concrete, precast concrete, brick, and cinderblock. We have yet to come across a concrete structure that we cannot handle.

Wire Sawing

One of the advantages of wire sawing is its capability to cut through any concrete at any depth. We recommend this method over many others due to its increased safety when removing large amounts of concrete while keeping surrounding structures intact and maintaining its integrity. Another advantage of this method is its considerable decrease in the noise produced. There is a myriad of wire available to use, but we believe, and have experienced that diamond wire is the most efficient way to separate foundations, bridges, create openings in thick walls, and remove equipment pads.

Cobra Concrete Cutting Services Co. has extensive experience with wire sawing, wall sawing, and a number of other sawing methods used for various concrete cutting needs. We have used these methods for projects that range from malls, sporting areas, government facilities, dining, grocery stores, and even city landmarks like the Willis Tower, The Shedd Aquarium, and Millennium Park. There is no project that we cannot handle with ease, efficiency, and quality craftsmanship.

If your concrete structures are in dire need of concrete cutting, Cobra Concrete is one of the leading experts in the Chicagoland and Midwest. We have 17 excellent years of experience in our industry building long-term relationships, exceeding safety standards, and committing to continuing education for our team. We would love to help you with your next concrete endeavor. Give us a call today or visit our website to learn more about our concrete cutting expertise.

The Role of Excavation in Concrete Cutting

Wed, 17 Jan 2018 20:10:00 GMT

Cobra Concrete Cutting Services offers a full range of concrete excavation services throughout the Midwest and Chicagoland area. Utilizing the latest technologies and focused on efficiency, safety, and dependability, we are here to assist with all your concrete excavation needs.

expert Concrete Excavation Services

Our team can assist in the removal of all types of concrete installations and concrete materials, including:

Ponds – retention and decorative
Foundations
Basement removals
Retention tanks
Clearing land of concrete debris
Keystone retaining walls
Materials from interior demolitions
Electric (Fume-Free) interior excavations
Robotic excavations

Customized Excavation to Fit Specific Needs

We are unique in our ability to provide specialized excavation services based on the specific needs of our clients. Some of these include:

Electrical Excavation

Some situations require fume-free operation, making electrical excavation the preferred choice. Our electrical excavation can provide an efficient way to remove concrete and other materials from spaces where fumes are undesirable, such as grocery stores, food service businesses, and job sites in close proximity to other buildings.

Robotic Excavation

Certain applications are best performed using robotic tools , particularly when it is questionable if workers can perform the excavation safely. Our robots are capable not only of demolitions but also of excavation using bucket attachments.

Skid Steer Excavation

Our skid steer excavation services are ideal for the removal of concrete trenches, panels, and walls. We can break up all the concrete materials and transport them to containers for removal, including dump trucks and dumpsters.

Serving a Variety of Clients and Businesses

Our concrete excavation services are utilized by a variety of businesses, contractors, and customers throughout the Midwest. Our newest location is established in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Some of the clients we work with include:

General contractors
Demolition contractors
Plumbing contractors
Electrical contractors
Municipalities
Sewer and water contractors
Architects
Engineers
Homeowners

Focused on Efficiency & Safety

Demolition and removal of concrete requires training, attention to detail, and the necessary equipment to do it right. It also requires strict adherence to safety standards to be done without injury. Cobra Concrete is dedicated to getting the job done – but we are also serious about safety. When you hire our team, you can depend on us to be as efficient as possible, without ever failing to make safety our top priority.

If you are considering a concrete demolition project, or you need concrete excavation services, contact us today . Let us use our skills and cutting-edge equipment to make sure the job is done right. Competitively priced, efficient and reliable – Cobra Concrete Cutting Services is ready to help with all concrete removal needs at your job site, business or home.

Receive a FREE Quote On Your Next Job

We pride ourselves on our commitment to complete client satisfaction and safety, and we have the reputation and track record to prove it.

What Is Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR)?

Fri, 27 Oct 2017 21:05:00 GMT

Time and time again we hear people confuse GPR with GPS. While they do share a couple letters, they are completely different.

We want to help clear up some confusions and give some general insight into what GPR is. Let’s begin with answering the question: What does GPR stand for? Ground Penetrating Radar .

What is Ground Penetrating Radar?

GPR is a common term in the geological and archeological industries, however, GPR systems are now being used in the concrete industries as well. As portable and easy to use tools, GPR is perfect for locating buried objects in a timely fashion. Radar waves are transmitted by high-frequency antennas to detect obstacles hidden to the naked eye. This tool is extremely valuable to our team because it can do a nearly impossible job. By measuring slab thickness and identifying embedded objects, our team is able to move quickly and efficiently to remove or locate materials that would hinder our concrete sawing and removal tools .

Depending on the quality and the age of the concrete, scanning depth is generally 18” or deeper. GPR can detect rebar, conduits, pipes, or other dangerous material. Not only can GPR be used for locating material beneath concrete, it is used to determine the location of utility lines, buried tanks, and drums.

FAQs

Concrete Drilling Services: Hire a Company that Specializes

Tue, 17 Oct 2017 21:03:00 GMT

The appearance and apparent strength of concrete can mislead general contractors to employ an on the job DIY approach to drilling. If you look at a concrete slab or wall, it often appears quite sturdy, and that leads some managers to tap a laborer to pick up a drill to save on cost.

This can have catastrophic consequences for the worker and project. There are numerous unseen dangers that only a trained concrete technician would consider. That’s why sub-contracting concrete drilling services out to a company that specializes in this area makes perfect sense. Cobra Concrete employs only highly trained, experienced, and safety-certified concrete drilling specialists.

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Unexpected Concrete Drilling Hazards

Kick and Torque: These hand-held drilling tools , commonly used by general construction workers, often have bits that jam, kick, and wrench the equipment in a spiral. These tools are very powerful and can cause injury in an untrained worker. Companies that specialize in concrete drilling have a cache of equipment that can be anchored and provide clean, injury-free results.

Obstructions: One of the primary reasons workers get injured drilling through concrete is the unseen objects embedded in the material. When concrete is poured, tossing in rocks or adding rebar support are common. That’s why Cobra Concrete utilizes concrete scanning (GPR) to map any hidden dangers.

Dust Hazards: The dust that rises from concrete drilling and cutting can negatively impact a worker’s health. While most construction personnel understand the importance of wearing masks while on task, many are unaware of the floating particles that can exist, even at a distance. Companies that provide commercial-grade concrete drilling services are knowledgeable about safe distances and the latest fume-free technology.

Unstable Materials: Although concrete generally looks tremendously strong, it may have weak points. It takes experts that work in the field on a daily basis to be able to assess on-site risks before beginning work.

Conducting Risk Assessments

As you can see from this short-list of potential construction site risks, project decision-makers would do well to reject the impulse to hand powerful concrete drilling tools to general laborers. Experienced companies like Cobra Concrete have a fleet of equipment designed for the single purpose of finding dangers, assessing structural risks, and working with highly trained individuals to properly complete concrete drilling and cutting needs. Things such as Ground Penetrating Radar, experienced structural evaluations, and implementing proper protocols equate to jobs getting done right.

Contact Cobra Concrete For Concrete Drilling Services

Cobra Concrete is an industry leader with the ability to achieve core drilling holes ranging from a ½ inch to 60 inches in diameter at any angle. These concrete drilling services have been used to facilitate other subcontractor services including HVAC, electrical, and plumbing among others. For more information or to receive a project quote, contact Cobra Concrete today.

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Concrete Scanning Reduces Risk And Losses

Wed, 27 Sep 2017 17:02:00 GMT

Construction sites are like a calm body of water in many ways. Everything seems safe on the surface, but you never know what lurks below. There could be dangers that reach up and bite you.

The same idea holds true for things that may be embedded in concrete slabs. That’s why it’s important to work with a full-service Milwaukee concrete scanning outfit that uses the latest GPR technologies to identify hidden dangers. Cobra Concrete employs a three-phase process to help protect general contractors and developers from encountering unnecessary risks.

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What Could Be Hidden?

An explosive NPR story highlighted the issue of unknown dangers below the surface. In California, construction workers were finishing up building a home. Two men were hanging insulation in the attic when a loud boom threw them against the wall as part of the roof literally blew off. It turned out that a previous home had been built on the very same spot and there was an underground gas line that was leaking. The fumes built up in the home and ignited. There was no apparent record of the previous structure or gas lines.

An embarrassing underground incident recently occurred in Milwaukee. A contractor handling a streetcar project mistakenly cut into an underground AT&T telecommunications line. The accident grounded Internet services, landlines and shut down WiFi. Business owners complained they lost thousands of dollars in revenue due to the telecommunications infrastructure shutdown. Those that relied on call-in orders such as pizza restaurants took particularly big losses and even reduced staff during the shutdown. Working with a professional Milwaukee concrete scanning company could have avoided the unnecessary debacle.

How The Scanning Process Works

Cobra Concrete uses a three-step procedure to identify and map out existing hazards in concrete. The first step involves walking the entire job site and gathering information about the property and current undertaking. The stability of existing structures and concrete are assessed. Scanning may help avoid dangers associated with concrete cutting and excavation later, but Cobra Concrete considers worker safety going in.

The scanning aspect utilizes the latest GPR technologies , electro-magnetic wands, and transmitters to locate embedded objects. These objects are then marked on the surface, photographed and an assessment is presented to the contractor before work begins. And, a 3-D map is created for reference during the construction process. Knowing what lays beneath the surface is the first step toward not getting bit by it.

concrete cutting risk assessment with Milwaukee’s cobra concrete

It seems almost counterintuitive to not go the distance and bring in a professional concrete scanning outfit given the danger to workers, cost of mistakes and potential loss of industry credibility. If you have construction site scanning needs, contact Cobra Concrete.

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4 Reasons To Work With A Chicago Concrete Removal Expert

Wed, 27 Sep 2017 17:02:00 GMT

Like general contractors, municipalities and developers create project budgets, one of the driving factors will be how much to allot to sub-contractors. Concrete removal is one of those issues that some decision-makers can be on the fence about.

You probably have a significant workforce in place. It may seem like an opportunity to rent equipment and utilize your own team. However, concrete removal requires the expertise of an experienced company. Cobra Concrete specializes in these services. Here are four reasons to sub-contract the work out to an expert.

Safety Matters

Concrete removal experts do this work every single day. That means they encounter hazardous situations specific to concrete removal and develop an understanding of the real dangers you won’t find in a textbook, classroom or training course. On the job experience is important. Cobra Concrete has also made a significant investment in superior job site safety awareness.

All Cobra Concrete workers and managers have earned an OSHA 30-Hour Construction Safety and Health Card. Team members undergo focused monthly and annual safety orientations. The company also works without outside safety organizations to keep fresh eyes on internal practices and measures. In terms of working with a Chicago concrete removal sub-contractor, this level of safety detail will keep workers out of harm’s way and avoid costly injuries.

Expertise Matters

You probably wouldn’t hire a cardiologist to perform laser eye surgery. Even though they are both doctors, each specializes. They are expert in specific fields. The same holds true in construction. A general laborer could remove concrete, but a lack of expertise about procedures and equipment may lead to serious problems.

Experience Matters

You could say that every job is two unique stories. There’s the formal training that teaches you the fundamentals. Then, there is being immersed in daily experience. Concrete removal involves a variety of settings, structures, and understanding of density and fragility. Technicians that complete this work every day earn a degree in practical knowledge that is unrivaled.

Equipment Matters

It’s certainly true that a general contractor or developer could rent concrete removal equipment. Of course, this would be basic excavation equipment and it would end up in the hands of relative novices. A professional concrete removal company has a specialized fleet of equipment that can be brought to handle massive slab removal, vertical and horizontal cutting and more. Cobra Concrete enjoys a fleet so diverse that it has remote-controlled robotic equipment and fumeless tools available. Outsourcing ultimately saves time and money because a concrete removal expert has all the tools and trained personnel waiting in the wings.

If you are a general contractor, developer, or municipal decision-maker, it’s important to utilize the best resources to attain the best results. Call Cobra Concrete for a quote.

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Cobra Concrete Committed To Highest Safety Measures

Wed, 20 Sep 2017 19:55:00 GMT

Concrete ranks among the most valuable building materials used in modern construction. It also requires skilled technicians with a deep understanding of safety measures to make alterations.

In rehabilitation projects, cutting, drilling, and removal are common. Even in new construction, targeted materials management means bringing in a concrete cutting and drilling outfit to keep a project on track. And at the end of the day, it’s imperative to work with a safety-trained outfit such as Cobra Concrete to ensure the project and human cost don’t become too high. These are just some of the measures that are important to maintain a safe job site when concrete cutting and drilling comes into play.

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Air Quality

Concrete cutting and drilling creates more than just a cloud of dust. The material contains crystalline silica and that present a significant health risk to the cutting technician and surrounding workers. According to OSHA, “Crystalline silica has been classified as a human lung carcinogen. Additionally, breathing crystalline silica dust can cause silicosis, which in severe cases can be disabling, or even fatal. The respirable silica dust enters the lungs and causes the formation of scar tissue, thus reducing the lungs’ ability to take in oxygen. There is no cure for silicosis.” Cobra Concrete management and fieldworkers all undergo rigorous OSHA certification and wear protective gear.

Another health danger is the presence of noxious fumes from machinery on job sites. Concrete cutting and removal is often conducted in tight spaces and that limits that presence of breathable air. To overcome the poor air quality that often results from working in confined spaces, Cobra Concrete invested in a line if fumeless equipment capable of hitting significant cutting depths. The outfit also has a fleet of robotic machinery that can be controlled from a safe distance. The high volume of construction lawsuits pertaining to lung damage and the human losses are reasons why Cobra Concrete has put the time and effort into air quality safety measures.

Physical Dangers

There are two things that cannot be understated when working in concrete cutting and drilling: danger and experience. It goes without saying that concrete penetrations come with a high level of danger. The material is brittle and fragments can gouge eyes and skin. The machinery used to cut, saw, and demolish concrete has tremendous power. If it can slice hard materials, the human body doesn’t stand a chance.

The solution to these dangers rests on experience. General contractors are wise to pull in niche resources such as concrete cutting specialists because their technicians do the job every day. Any carpenter, plumber or heavy machinery operator knows that on-the-job experience provides an education you cannot get in the classroom. Experienced professionals learn the stability of materials and external dangers from being in the environment. By performing concrete duties on a daily basis, technicians understand the actual dangers and safe distances needed to keep everyone on a construction site safe. Whether that involves setting a taped off perimeter or wearing and carrying extra protective gear, experience matters. For more information or an estimate, contact Cobra Concrete.

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Concrete Slab Removal

Mon, 11 Sep 2017 16:35:00 GMT

If you don’t regularly work with large blocks of concrete, then removing concrete slabs can be a daunting project to take on.

Owners may grapple with themselves about how much money they want to spend, how necessary it is for the health of the property, and whether or not they can do it themselves. The end result is that the task gets pushed to the bottom of the list for far longer than it should. Learn more about why you shouldn’t delay removal and how Cobra Concrete safely removes concrete slabs.

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Strength and Sensibility

Concrete is certainly a durable material, and it can stand up to quite a lot of punishment. But no matter how well you maintain it, concrete won’t last forever. A few small cracks won’t harm the integrity or stability (though they may not look very attractive), but surface cracks can also deepen quickly. An expert contractor will look at the severity of the cracks, as well as the amount of spalling. Spalling occurs when small particulate matter from the concrete breaks up (e.g., dust, gravel, etc.), and it’s usually a sign that the concrete can’t be repaired. Even a novice can tell a lot just by looking at their concrete once they know what to look for.

The Process

Breaking up concrete slabs on your own is time-consuming and comes with its own inherent risks. For different types of concrete, the required tools will vary. The necessary equipment isn’t a common garage sledgehammer. Cobra owns all the tools and has immense expertise when it comes to operating said tools. A DIY option may sound simple enough but the expertise needed to remove concrete slabs is best left to the experts at Cobra.

New Advancements

The construction industry has seen a number of new products on the concrete repair market. Choosing a company that stays current with trends while maintaining quality work in imperative. One of our experts will look at everything from the quality of the original installation to the length of time it will take to make the fix. Cobra Concrete has the know-how to help you decide the best possible course of action to fix your concrete, and we’re ready to help you today. We specialize in concrete demolition and excavation, and we would never steer you wrong. Give us a call to get the find out the best possible treatment process for your concrete!

Milwaukee Concrete Cutting Services

Thu, 31 Aug 2017 17:46:00 GMT

Developers and general contractors are anticipating a replenished infrastructure revenue stream coming down the pipeline. That means the time is now to work out an ongoing agreement for concrete cutting in Milwaukee you can depend on.

The federal government has been touting a renewed commitment to repairing, replacing and modernizing crumbling roads and bridges. When the funding flows into Milwaukee municipal budgets, outfits that bid on these lucrative contracts can reach out to Cobra Concrete in advance to be able to fulfill their obligations on time and on budget.

Infrastructure Investments Require Concrete Cutting Services

The White House and Congress are bandying about an infrastructure investment that could reach as high as $1 trillion nationally. Milwaukee has already begun the revitalization process. The north side’s Century City Triangle neighborhoods drew praise for fulfilling some wonderful green initiatives last year. While the headlines and photo ops may focus on the rich gardens, the backstory includes sewer problems stemming from intense rains that overflowed the system. The neighborhood’s green initiative started with an infrastructure problem. After a group of community activists tackled the water issues, officials from Milwaukee Metropolitan Sewer District (MMSD) recommended more than $600,000 in infrastructure improvements last year. As general contractors bid on this type of work, they will need the high-level concrete cutting services that Cobra Concrete provides.

Milwaukee’s Friends of Lakeshore State Park called for the removal of tradition hard surfaces and installation of porous pavement, the creation of a visitor’s center and rehabilitation of the Milwaukee Public Museum parking lots among others. All of this retrofitting and rehabilitation will call for the use of deep cutting walk-behind slab sawing, and a variety of niche equipment will be brought to bear. In 2016, MMSD Executive Director Kevin Shafer called for the municipality to target 740 million gallons of green infrastructure capacity by 2035. Such lofty goals will mean that general contractors and the County of Milwaukee government are going to need a top flight concrete sawing and drilling outfit on speed dial.

Roads and Bridges

Milwaukee officials are well aware of the infrastructure upgrades that need to be implemented. When the federal government opens the funding tap, contractors should plan ahead for a flood of work. The rehabilitated West Mill Road bridge stands as a good example about the necessity of experienced concrete work. The bridge was inadequate to handle heavy rain flow in an environmentally friendly fashion. The existing concrete parapets were demolished and removed to make way for an improved, green bridge.

The city and county have numerous projects in the planning stages and even more on their wish lists. If these hit the bidding and implementation phases rapidly, there may be a log jam for the concrete cutting Milwaukee companies rely on to fulfill their contracts.

Experienced Concrete Cutting Milwaukee Companies Rely On

Cobra Concrete uses the most advanced equipment and only highly-trained OSHA-certified technicians. If you plan to bid on infrastructure projects awaiting a green light, contact Cobra Concrete for more information or an estimate.

Concrete Cutting Pros For Urban Revitalization

Thu, 31 Aug 2017 17:29:00 GMT

After decades of tail-spinning, some of Chicago’s urban landscapes are being reinvented by developers that want to bring together the various perks of so-called “mini communities.”

As contractors assess the diverse construction needs required, they’ll want to tap into Chicago saw cutting outfits such as Cobra Concrete to negotiate lingering hard materials and make modifications during the development process. A prime example of potential redevelopment is the former South Works site that closed in 1992.

This waterfront property had been considered for a joint business venture to create a mini community since 2004. The 430-acre property was under consideration for 12,000 homes, more than 17 million square feet of retail space, a marina, and wind-power energy. Although the deal was scrapped in 2016, a new proposal emerged this year called “Chicago 8o8o Lakeshore Masterplan ” that would create 30 urban square blocks of pedestrian-friendly community space. General contractors will need to portion out much of the work to subcontractors such as electricians, plumbers, and HVAC companies. But a Chicago saw cutting outfit like Cobra Concrete may be a go-to resource from beginning to end on projects like this.

Preparation Work

Before architects and engineers can begin to map out mini communities, they need to know what may be hidden beneath the surface. Modern construction mapping in many cities can detail water and gas lines. But the problem with old cities such as Chicago is that massive sites such as the proposed Chicago 8o8o are the unknown. Oil tanks, unmapped power, and gas and natural construction impediments need to be defined before a backhoe can crack the surface. That takes the type of Ground Penetrating Radar that Cobra Concrete offers.

Clearing the Urban Landscape

Reinventing industrial lands and buildings mean demolition and removal. The former South Works site, for example, has large swaths of concrete slabs that will need to be excavated. Many of these are likely to be thick and require a Chicago saw cutting company with an inventory of walk-behind cutting machines. In some areas, this will entail bringing in the 100-horsepower artillery and experienced technicians to handle the work. Cobra Concrete has a safety certified team of experienced operators that facilitate deep and shallow concrete cutting tasks. Hazardous machinery requires qualified operators.

On-Time Construction

Developers make effective use of experienced concrete pouring organizations and employ precast materials. Any experienced contractor understands that building is a fluid process that calls for minor and major changes. Trimming a few inches off precast material or an inaccurate blueprint leading to an extra foot of slab means someone must bring it back to spec. That’s why many general contractors set up an initial agreement with concrete cutters that includes on-call services. An experienced Chicago saw cutting outfit like Cobra Concrete keeps the project running on time and on budget.

The major Chicago waterfront project is a prime example of how developers can reinvent urban landscapes. At Cobra Concrete, our team provides a wide range of invaluable services for large and small projects. Call Cobra Concrete for an estimate.

Cobra Concrete is a Full-Service Organization

Fri, 25 Aug 2017 18:00:00 GMT

It’s common for commercial and industrial projects to run into unexpected snags, and general contractors sometimes just want to be expedient about resolving issues. This type of gut reaction can end up leading to more problems.

Making an informed decision about which company to hire for concrete cutting and drilling work goes beyond pulling someone in for a quick fix. Here are three reasons it’s important to work with a full-service concrete contractor like Cobra Concrete .

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Experience Matters

People who work in the construction sector are fully aware that experience matters. Workers develop skills over time. Whether it’s familiarity with specific tools, materials, or understanding the moving parts of a job site, veteran outfits are better prepared to overcome obstacles and difficult conditions than upstarts. Founded in 1999, Cobra Concrete boasts a team of highly trained technicians with a wealth of field experience. The company earned the 2014 ASA Subcontractor of the Year Award and has ranked in the top 50 of Inc. magazine’s “Fastest Growing Companies.”

Safety is Job One

Construction sites are by nature hazardous. There may be nothing worse than a worker suffering an injury that could have been avoided. That person’s health, earning capacity and quality of life can be significantly impacted. Your business may also suffer higher insurance premiums and time-consuming agency reviews. That’s why it’s important to work with full-service concrete contractors who are dedicated to worker safety. Cobra Concrete team members are required to undergo OSHA training, safety classes, submit to random drug testing and attend regular internal meetings with Cobra Management and Senior Field Operators. Cobra Concrete is a recipient of the ASA Annual Safety Award.

Latest Technology

The importance of having the most modern and technologically advanced equipment at your disposal cannot be understated. The days of sledge and jack hammers are mostly behind us. They are deemed far too labor intensive, inefficient, and more likely to contribute to injury. That’s why Cobra Concrete has invested in walk-behind cutting saws, attached vertical wall saws, large-scale wire cutting technologies, and core drilling units that can produce holes from a ½-inch to 60 inches. Also, having the ability to deploy fume-less equipment and remotely controlled demolition machinery greatly reduces the risk of injury and illness. This cutting-edge equipment can perform tasks that would be otherwise unsafe for humans.

For organizations to truly be full-service concrete contractors , they need to bring a lot to the table. That’s why Cobra Concrete augments its cutting, drilling and demolition capabilities with ground penetrating radar services. Having the ability to locate and assess the dangers of embedded metals, underground tanks, electrical conduits and water lines provides valuable information for general contractors. It also rounds out what someone might define as “full service.”

Cobra Concrete has earned its reputation as an industry-leading, full-service concrete contractor by investing in people, safety and a fleet of equipment and services that can meet the challenges of any job site. To set up a consultation or receive a quote, contact us today .

Cobra Concrete: It’s All About The People And The Tools

Wed, 09 Aug 2017 17:12:00 GMT

If someone said to you that concrete cutting wasn’t rocket science, they’d be wrong. If you stop and think about it, rocket science involves a group of highly trained professionals with expertise in a niche industry that utilizes specific tools to achieve goals.

That’s exactly what concrete cutting involves, and the trained professionals at Cobra Concrete have a cache of niche tools ready to help you achieve your goals. Cobra Concrete staffs only fully qualified, safety certified technicians to operate some of the most powerful concrete cutting tools in the construction industry today. It takes experience and concentration to negotiate hazardous job sites and effectively handle these precision machines. Cobra’s equipment includes:

Slab Cutting Tools

Concrete flat sawing involves large walk-behind cutting equipment that can slice up to 32 inches through dense materials. The machines in Cobra Concrete’s cutting fleet run as high as 110 horse power. They include a mix of gas diesel powered and electric-driven engines that overcome air quality factors. Slab sawing specialists are commonly brought in to handle duties such as:

Dividing reinforced floors
Cutting Control and Expansion Joints
Utility Installation Trenching
Pavement Removal and Advanced Demolition
Creating Pathways for other Subcontractors

Large walk-behind slab saws often use diamond edged blades and require highly skilled and safety qualified technicians to operate them effectively.

Wall Cutting Tools

When vertical openings through concrete or other dense materials are needed, no cutting tools are safer or more efficient than a wall saw. Cobra Concrete’s wall cutting tools hit depths of 36 inches with precision. They are often set on a track anchored to the wall that allows the diamond blades to make perfect cuts. Technicians can also negotiate flush cuts to an existing surface and create seamless openings. Common wall cutting jobs often include:

Archways and Door Openings
Window Openings
Penetrating Bank Vaults
Concrete Beam Demolition
Foundation Alterations

Wire Cutting Tools

One of the concrete cutting tools that helped revolutionize the industry is the wire saw . Regardless of how thick a column, slab or beam is, the bearded wire design with diamond inserts can be stretched around it. The directional cut can be managed by guided pulleys at multiple angles. This cutting tool outpaces many conventional technologies with its unparalleled abilities. A wire saw can be integrated into any commercial, industrial or residential environment with the right technician at the helm.

Handheld and Chain Saws

Although technology has advanced concrete cutting tools , some jobs require workers to get it done by hand. Handheld saws are often employed in tight quarters that are impractical for big machines. These cutting tools resemble a high-powered carpenter’s circular saw. Cobra Concrete’s handheld cutting tools are electric and hydraulic with the ability to make 6-inch cuts. Similarly, concrete-ready chainsaws are primarily used to square corners to finish out the deep slab and wall cuts.

When it comes to having an arsenal of cutting tools, Cobra Concrete has the everything you need to get the job done. Just like rocket science, it’s all about the people and the tools!

If you would like an estimate or more information, call Cobra Concrete today .

Cobra Brings Expertise To Residential, Commercial And Industrial Partnerships

Wed, 02 Aug 2017 14:32:00 GMT

The trained professionals at Cobra Concrete understand that no job is too big or too small, and that attitude has helped the organization enjoy a wide range of clients.

As a cutting-edge sawing and drilling company, Cobra Concrete has amassed a lengthy list of repeat customers and establishes relationships that include commercial and industrial companies, as well as homeowners. Cobra Concrete is committed to getting every job done on time, on budget, and right the first time.

Homeowners Matter

Although operations like Cobra Concrete may appear to be geared toward major construction projects, the ever-growing company finds no job too big or too small. In many ways, maintaining a residential cutting and drilling sector has helped these trained professionals maintain strong ties to the community. Homeowners require structural modifications to accommodate conveniences and increase the value of a home. These are just some of the common alterations Cobra Concrete performs.

Expand window and door widths to meet today’s fire and safety codes
Bore new holes or expand existing ones for dryer and fan ventilation
Create or expand HVAC vent openings
Modify home slab for plumbing alterations
Create an opening for a new door or window
Create drainage openings

As any homeowner knows, a residential property seems to always be a work in progress that needs professional modifications from time to time, especially when it comes to concrete.

Commercial Partnerships

Developing productive partnerships with commercial companies has helped earn Cobra Concrete a reputation as an industry leader. In any construction project, there are challenges that fall slightly outside one contributor’s expertise. That’s why many specialists turn to Cobra Concrete to handle potential concrete and hard material obstacles. Whether an existing building needs cutting and drilling for retrofits, or hazardous areas require state-of-the-art safety equipment, contractors in these areas rely on Cobra Concrete to blaze a trail.

General Contractors
Plumbing Companies
Electricians
Concrete and Asphalt Outfits
HVAC Technicians
Sprinkler Installation Organizations
Demolition Companies
Architects and Engineers
Government Agencies
Sewer and Water Contractors

Moving a commercial project forward means bringing people with a variety of skill sets together. Cobra Concrete’s services keep things on track.

Industrial Experience

Many of America’s factories and mill facilities were built during manufacturing booms. These vintage structures often require significant modifications to meet today’s fire and building codes. New industrial production may call for wider doors or taller archways to maneuver forklifts or other equipment. Some of these stone, brick and concrete buildings must accommodate contemporary ventilation and electronics, among other items.

Working in industrial warehouses and manufacturing complexes requires an understanding of stress points and vast experience. It also takes a company that can bring the latest sawing and drilling technologies to the table. Hiring the right company means bringing someone aboard that can get the job done efficiently, safely and right the first time.

Cobra Concrete has established a reputation as an industry leader by working at a highly professional level with homeowners, commercial contractors and industrial organizations alike. To set up a consultation or get a quote, contact us today.

Cobra Concrete Remains On The Cutting Edge

Tue, 01 Aug 2017 21:11:00 GMT

They say you can’t teach an old dog new tricks, but that adage doesn’t appear to hold true for Cobra Concrete. Founded in 1999, this full-service company continues to expand and stay on the cutting edge of the concrete industry.

Cobra Concrete isn’t shy about spelling out goals. The outfit’s mission statement plainly states their goal is to “revolutionize the concrete sawing and drilling industry through our innovation and attitude.” The confident concrete organization has earned a tremendous reputation for preparedness and professionalism with major contractors, government agencies, small businesses, and homeowners alike. Their success stems from meeting contemporary challenges with the latest industry equipment, technology, and training. For practical purposes, Cobra Concrete’s services can be broken into three general categories.

State-of-the-Art Sawing and Drilling

When this company formed in the late 1990s, penetrating tough, thick concrete was a labor-intensive and inefficient process. Making rough holes with equipment such as jack hammers, hand-held drills, and makeshift saws resulted in inaccurate cuts that often required patchwork. Those tools are still around, but Cobra Concrete utilizes the latest, most precise, and efficient equipment to get the job done right the first time.

Diamond core drilling tools can bore a hole as small as a ½-inch, or as large as 60 inches. Holes can be made with accuracy through walls, flooring, slabs and at any angle. Contractors that handle plumbing, electrical, HVAC, and concrete construction often prefer to subcontract out these duties to a specialist.

Slab and wall sawing are no longer done by adapting a masonry blade to a carpenter’s tool. Cobra Concrete has invested in precision equipment developed for concrete cutting. Walk behind machines harness the power to slice long, deep trenches through material at depths of 32 inches. Wall sawing tools can hit depths of 36 inches at any angle with today’s equipment is operated by Cobra Concrete’s trained professional technicians.

Hand-held saws are still in the mix. They’re generally used for 6-inch or shorter penetrations in areas that require user flexibility in tight spaces. These saws are designed for slicing through concrete, cinder blocks and hard materials, not 2X4s.

Cutting Edge Demolition

Breaking up material for removal can be a nightmare for contractors. The process tends to be labor intensive, expensive and places workers in high-risk situations. Fortunately, Cobra Concrete has kept pace with the latest technology and assembled a fleet of robotic demolition equipment that can be remotely operated. A technician can manage the precision chisels to crush or separate materials efficiently and out of harm’s way. In confined spaces, electric, fumeless excavators can be deployed.

Ground Penetrating Radar

Geologists and archeologist have been using ground penetrating radar (GPR) since the 1970s. Today’s construction sector faces constant threats from underground tanks, water lines, electrical conduits and other embedded objects. You won’t know what’s hidden beneath the surface unless you look. Having a detailed underground map is imperative for a successful project and worker safety. Cobra Concrete uses high frequency, non-invasive radar to help avoid costly setbacks.

Cobra Concrete has established a reputation as an industry leader through professionalism and staying on the cutting edge. To set up a consultation or receive a quote, contact us today .

Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR): What It is and why It is Important

Mon, 17 Jul 2017 17:52:00 GMT

Ground penetrating radar (GPR) is vitally important for locating objects underground. Our GPR technology pinpoints the exact locations of items through concrete, asphalt and even below soil.

Contemporary GPR systems empower technicians to move across an entire job site while recording massive amounts of data in surprisingly little time. The technology makes use of radar waves sent by high frequency antennas. The collected data is interpreted by our team in order to pinpoint the exact locations of embedded objects within the ground.

GPR’s Use

Our scanning division team provides GPR services to contractors across an array of fields. Examples of clients include general contractors, plumbers, electricians and heating and cooling specialists. Have our expert technicians visit your job site and we will review an array of factors. We mark and clear areas in a precise manner to ameliorate clients’ drilling and/or sawing activities. Examples of objects commonly found in concrete include pipes, conduits and rebar.

We also use GPR for soil applications. Scans are commonly performed to find out exactly where objects and items like buried drums, tanks and utility lines are positioned. The beauty of using GPR is that it is incredibly accurate and does not disrupt the concrete/soil. The end result is a considerable savings in terms of construction, engineering and maintenance costs in the short-term as well as the long-term.

GPR for Concrete Scanning and Bridge Decks

All sorts of professionals tap into the power of our GPR to determine if a particular section of concrete has embedded rebar, electrical conduits, post tension cables metal pipes, or PVC pipes buried within slabs of concrete. This is the vitally important inspection of the subsurface necessary to ensure cutting, coring and other actions can be performed in full confidence. The technology is also used to map concrete over bridge decks to figure out which portions of the concrete have deteriorated due to rebar corrosion. Such compromised sections pose all sorts of massive problems. We can also use GPR to accurately measure the thickness of slabs. This technology’s extensive scanning depth varies based on the style of antenna in use along with the concrete’s quality and age. In most instances, the scanning depth for concrete spaces is usually 18” or more.

The GPR Process

The GPR process involves three steps: assessment, scanning and analysis. The initial assessment surveys the work space with a walk-through to determine if limiting factor are present. The scanning phase puts GPR technologies to use to identify the locations of embedded objects. This is performed with electromagnetic wands and transmitters. The analysis portion of the process marks sub-surface objects. We take photos and mark a real-time layout on the surface. Our team discusses reporting requirements with the client and even provides a highly detailed three-dimensional post-inspection model.

Cobra Concrete Cutting Services is Here for Your Concrete Needs

If you are on the prowl for a full service ground penetrating radar provider, a company to locate utilities or a concrete sawing/drilling contractor, look no further. We even offer concrete breaking and removal services. Contact us today to learn more about our services and obtain a quote.

What to Consider When Looking for Concrete Wire Sawing in Milwaukee

Mon, 17 Jul 2017 17:32:00 GMT

You may need concrete wire sawing services in Milwaukee for any number of reasons. Maybe you want to renovate a large building into single-family apartments. Maybe you want to give your older home a makeover for you and your family.

Or perhaps building regulations have changed, and you need to get a space up to code to avoid major fines from your friendly local authorities. Concrete wire sawing is used for extremely demanding residential, commercial, and industrial projects that require deep cuts into solid structures. Find out more about how it works, and what to look for before you choose a service.

How It Works

Wire cutting doesn’t just roughly slice through a block of concrete. This service makes the incision at the precise space it needs to be made. It works by using a system of guided pulleys that allow the wire to be pulled through smoothly for better results. This type of flexibility can be a game-changer when it comes to sawing through practically every type of material. Metal engine blocks, concrete, brick, stone, and asphalt are no match for the strength of wire sawing. The studded wire is typically a loop and can be drawn through a variety of structures without damaging the surrounding materials. Unlike standard sawing techniques that may make a mess of rubble and grit, this technique gives you a perfect cut wherever it needs to be made. Much like a pair of scissors can glide across a piece of paper, wire sawing applies that principle to even the thickest of structures.

When It Should Be Used

Concrete wire sawing is perfect for small areas because there is less disturbance to the immediate surroundings and improved accuracy over other methods. Restricted areas or remote locations will face minimum disruptions, which can help you comply with the law. When regular sawing tools can’t stand up to an unusually dense block of concrete, wire saws can handle the heat. Some people even use wire sawing underwater. Structures like below-ground pools or piers can be worked on without endangering. Should you want to add a French door to your home or a few more windows to your office, wire cutting is likely the best choice for you. It’s also perfect for when you need to remove large concrete structures from your property. There is practically no limit to how deep wire sawing can cut. Look for a company in Milwaukee that can give you the best advice on your particular project.

Additional Benefits

Another benefit of using concrete wire sawing in Milwaukee is that its a relatively quiet operation. Depending on the complexity and length of your project, limiting the noise disturbance isn’t just nice to have, it’s downright necessary. Cobra Concrete is a full-service company that can make it easier for you to get the work done quickly. If you need advice or just want to schedule an appointment, we’re happy to make your project run as smoothly as possible.

Robotic Demolition Services: a Win For MILWAUKEE Contractors

Fri, 30 Jun 2017 20:37:00 GMT

Technological advancements have infiltrated just about every aspect of construction, and Cobra Concrete’s Milwaukee robotic demolition equipment and capabilities provide contractors with the latest and safest removal tools.

Cobra Concrete has earned a reputation for maintaining the highest professional standards, and their innovative unmanned demolition abilities have positively impacted the way work is being conducted. The days of strongmen with sledgehammers gave way to jackhammers and other physically operated equipment. Today, highly trained technicians manage these hazardous duties from a safe distance. Not only has worker safety been improved, but there are many other benefits to employing Cobra Concrete’s Milwaukee robotic demolition services as well.

Raw Power

Remote controlled demolition equipment brings big league power to breaking up concrete, brick, and cinder block. Hand-held tools simply cannot deliver the same level of force and the human body cannot get the extreme weight and push that a mid-sized piece of machinery brings to the table. Robotic demolition machinery can utilize large bits for impressive penetration in even the tightest spaces.

Close Quarters

One of the factors that inform a contractor’s equipment choices is location. Outdoor slab removal opens the door for heavy equipment to dispatch obstacles quickly and easily. But once you get indoors or on fragile ground, you should downsize. That means either worker-driven demo or unmanned equipment. Once you figure in the inherent dangers of putting fieldworkers in close quarters, robotic equipment should always win the day. In terms of operating in tight spaces and dangerous areas that could suffer a collapse, sub-contracting this portion of a project out to robotic operators makes sense on many fronts.

Health, Safety, and Liability

Every construction outfit must adhere to OSHA guidelines and have a constant eye toward potential health and safety issues. One only need look at industries that negatively impact employee health to understand the terrible effect it has on everyday people. Fumes are a health concern that come with operating demo equipment, and the last thing you want is to have workers inhaling fumes in poorly ventilated spaces. Something is going to go sideways.

From a contractor’s perspective, sub-contracting demolition work allows you to lower your individual business liability, improve job site safety, and minimize health risks. Bringing in Cobra Concrete’s Milwaukee robotic demolition technology is an across-the-board win.

Getting the Job Done

At the end of the day, cutting edge technology must be able to accomplish tasks on time and on budget. Construction remains one of the most competitive industries. Getting the job done right earns companies a solid reputation that leads to lucrative contracts; the opposite also tends to be true.

Cobra Concrete has expanded its operation because the outfit maintains the highest standards of safety and excellence. Bringing its Milwaukee robotic demolition capabilities into the fold can enhance your cost-effectiveness and profitability. For more information, contact Cobra Concrete today.

Understanding All Types of Concrete Cutting

Mon, 26 Jun 2017 15:14:00 GMT

Despite living in a technological time, when it comes to erecting buildings, tried-and-true concrete is still king. Strong, durable and thick, concrete structures watch generations of industries come and go, but sometimes businesses and contractors need to alter slabs, walls, and even ceilings.

That’s when it’s time to call in a specialized outfit such as Cobra Concrete . By understanding how various concrete cutting methods work, you can make an informed decision about which type best serves your needs.

Slab Sawing

This type of concrete sawing, often referred to as “flat” or “road” sawing, is commonly used for cutting trenches in rehabilitation projects. For instance, developers transforming old mills into live-work spaces, light manufacturing hubs, or condos often need to install additional water, sewer, and power lines. Cobra Concrete utilizes a slab saw capable of reaching depths of 32 inches, creating precise pathways for plumbers and electricians. This approach is far more efficient than traditional jackhammering.

Wall Sawing

Contractors and property owners often turn to wall sawing for similar purposes as slab sawing, such as modifying walls to retrofit windows, doors, or create openings for power and HVAC lines. In some cases, archways need to be widened or heightened to accommodate warehouse machinery like forklifts. Wall sawing requires a high level of precision and expertise, making it a specialized task that should never be attempted by untrained individuals. Cobra Concrete offers professional wall sawing services, capable of reaching depths of up to 36 inches at any angle, including overhead.

Wire Sawing

Sometimes, large concrete obstacles need to be removed, and traditional demolition methods can be a hassle. Using diamond-edged wire, you can break down massive structures into smaller, more manageable pieces. Wire saws are also ideal for making precise cuts through materials that exceed the depth limits of standard saw blades. Similar to a band saw, wire sawing relies on abrasion rather than traditional saw teeth, with water typically used as a lubricant during the process. This method enables you to make large-scale cuts efficiently and cost-effectively.

Handheld Sawing

Handheld sawing, often used to cut through materials like cinder blocks, operates much like a carpenter’s circular saw but with greater size and torque. These versatile tools can reach depths of about 6 inches, making them ideal for creating small openings or smoothing rough edges. The major advantage of handheld concrete saws is their portability, allowing them to be easily transported and used across a job site as needed.

Hydraulic Chain Saws

Concrete cutting tools often resemble their woodworking counterparts, with hydraulic saws being a prime example. These tools use hydraulic pressure similar to a nail gun combined with the design of a traditional chainsaw. However, the chain is specially engineered to cut through concrete and brick, and the tool includes a water supply line for lubrication. While hydraulic saws can handle substantial standalone cuts, they are frequently paired with wall sawing to finish long cuts that meet precisely at corners.

Electric vs Gas Saws

Choosing between gas-powered and electric concrete cutting tools typically depends on the work environment and air quality requirements. Each option has its advantages and drawbacks. Here's a quick comparison to help you decide:

Electric Saw Pros: Lightweight, easy to handle, quieter operation, and environmentally friendly.

Electric Saw Cons: Less powerful, reliant on power cords or battery recharging, and pose electrical risks in wet environments.

Gas Saw Pros: Highly mobile, powerful, and safer to use in wet conditions.

Gas Saw Cons: Can reduce air quality, produce loud noise, and are generally heavier for operators.

If you have a concrete cutting need, it’s important to work with a trained professional service. Contact Cobra Concrete for more information or to get an estimate today.

Cobra Concrete Provides Superior Service

Mon, 19 Jun 2017 16:36:00 GMT

When contractors and construction outfits need highly trained, reliable concrete work done, they call Cobra Concrete Cutting Services .

With locations in Chicago, Champaign, and Milwaukee, Cobra Concrete brings full-service concrete services to new construction and rehabilitation projects in many locations. These services include concrete sawing, drilling, removal, and ground penetrating radar (GPR).

A Reliable Concrete Contractor

The lengthy list of satisfied and repeat clients include commercial, industrial, and government professionals, as well as residential homeowners. Cobra Concrete’s laser focus on client satisfactions has made it the area’s go-to company.

One of the many reasons that Cobra Concrete has amassed this loyal, ongoing client base is their reputation for employing highly skilled team members that get the job done on time, on budget, and with precision. Managers and skilled technicians have a keen ability to work closely with contractors and other industry professionals to ensure projects run on time and meet the rigorous standards and specifications required for industry excellence. With a large inventory of the latest, technologically advanced equipment, the Cobra team has access to machinery that can navigate tight spaces, and ensure air quality standards indoors. The team’s wealth of experience and training outpaces other concrete services companies.

As an industry leader in job site safety, every Cobra Concrete manager and technician has earned OSHA certification, and new employees must fulfill this requirement before taking on field work. Company policy requires ongoing safety orientations and random drug testing. At the end of the day, it’s important every project’s team members are confident when working with the Cobra Concrete crew.

When it comes to construction projects, no job is considered too large or too small. Whether a minor unplanned glitch needs a fast fix to keep other employees on task, or a major cutting and boring project requires ongoing management, Cobra Concrete understands the importance of providing support and lending a hand. Being able to schedule services on short notice as well as pre-plan months in advance helps avoid interruptions and maximizes productivity. The last thing a contractor wants is to pay employees to stand around drinking coffee. Cobra Concrete keeps the train running on time.

Over the years, Cobra Concrete has earned awards and certifications that highlight its commitment to industry excellence. These include the Level 2 Concrete Sawing and Drilling Association certification, the ASA Subcontractor of the Year, and Annual Safety awards, as well as being ranked as a top company by INC. Magazine. Read more about Cobra’s awards and community involvement .

Concrete cutting and drilling services are a necessary part of construction projects that require specialized equipment and training. Cobra Concrete has earned a reputation as an industry-leading specialist and go-to outfit known for superior service. Contact Cobra Concrete today for an estimate.

Precision Concrete Sawing And Drilling Services In Milwaukee

Tue, 13 Jun 2017 16:02:00 GMT

Construction projects of all sizes require concrete drilling and sawing . Cobra Concrete has brought its professional services to the greater Milwaukee area.

When erecting new buildings, concrete sawing and drilling work often arises out of plan oversights. Rehabilitation projects, strategic archways, window cuts and retrofitting electrical and plumbing lines necessitates gaining access through thick concrete walls and floors. Even homeowners have spot needs. Some contractors consider renting cutting and boring equipment and tap a crew member to handle the work. That’s generally a bad idea for several reasons.

Handing off a dust mask and a large cutting tool to a novice might leave you looking for new help. Drilling and sawing through tough concrete can be tremendously labor intensive. Learning as you go will likely lead to injury, imprecision, and a huge mess to clean up. There’s a reason that many people in the construction industry specialize; concrete work requires training and expertise. A general contractor is far better served by subcontracting the work out to pros such as Cobra Concrete.

Importance of Safety and Training

Every job site must maintain the highest level of safety possible. Employers understand that construction is inherently hazardous. Inexperienced workers using powerful equipment can be a recipe for disaster.

Cobra Concrete technicians undergo extensive safety training. They are OSHA certified and management requires monthly orientations to further educate and emphasize that safety is job one. Cobra sets a high bar, designed to reduce workplace accidents, and that has proven beneficial for workers and contractors alike.

Core Drilling Services

Cobra Concrete routinely conducts diamond core drilling, which ranges from penetrations as small as ½-inch to as large as 60 inches. That’s a big swing in terms of versatility. What might be more helpful is the ability to bore through slabs and walls at any angle, even upside down. These techniques have been instrumental in running power and telecommunications lines, plumbing, HVAC, pulling samples, and setting anchor bolts.

Concrete Cutting

In many cases, concrete cutting comes into play to strategically keep projects on track. Cobra Concrete understands that it’s important to make precision cuts on time and on budget. Cobra’s services include:

Wall Sawing: Whether a concrete pour didn ’t account for a planned opening, a commercial rehabilitation undertaking calls for redesign or widening openings to meet building codes, Cobra Concrete can hit wall depths of 36 inches with precision.

Slab Sawing: The ability to hit depths of 32 inches across large or small slabs provides an efficient way to effect changes. Cobra Concrete can deploy gas, diesel or even electric cutting equipment when the working conditions require.

Grinding and Grooving: Working with a concrete professional allows you to create rumble strips and shave back concrete when needed. It’s very helpful to have an outfit available to make those important tweaks as they arise.

Cobra Concrete has brought its highly-trained concrete sawing and drilling team to the Milwaukee area. Call today for a free estimate at 414-800-6278.

Cobra Concrete Brings Services To Milwaukee

Thu, 01 Jun 2017 20:09:00 GMT

Cobra Concrete recently brought its expertise and experience to the greater Milwaukee area. Their well-known company touts a trained, skilled workforce, and state-of-the-art equipment to handle large or small tasks for a wide range of concrete industry professionals and individuals.

They have brought their effective services to bear for numerous plumbing, electrical, HVAC and demolition contractors, as well as engineering and architecture firms, municipalities and homeowners, among others.

As an award-winning concrete sawing and drilling contractor, Cobra Concrete’s team members are OSHA safety certified from foremen to new hires. The company maintains rigorous safety standards that include company-wide meetings, ongoing OSHA training, and jobsite hazard analysis. Cobra even brings in outside resources to conduct impartial safety oversight inspections. In terms of working with a Milwaukee concrete contractor, these exacting standards help ensure a well-regulated and safe work environment.

Concrete Sawing and Drilling

One of the things that sets Cobra Concrete apart, is their quick response time and 24-hour service. The organization enjoys the best equipment, operators, and can deliver sawing and drilling services across industries. These include:

Core Drilling: Holes as small as ½-inch to 60 inches can be drilled through concrete walls and slabs at a variety of angles.
Slab Sawing: Using a walk-behind machine, a depth of 32 inches can be hit by gas-powered or electric saws.
Wall Sawing: This common strategy for cutting doors and HVAC openings can hit depths of up to 36 inches.
Grinding and Grooving: A wide range of grinders allows Cobra Concrete to handle specialized needs such as creating rumble strips and non-slip areas.

Cobra Concrete also provides other services such as chain sawing, wire sawing and no job is too large or small.

Breaking, Excavating and Patching

A great deal of concrete work needs to be performed indoors and Cobra Concrete’s fume-free excavation capabilities eliminate the potential for compromised air quality. Beyond that wonderful caveat, the outfit can handle defined portions of a project or the entire concrete contract. Consider the benefits of Cobra’s following services.

Robotic Demolition: Remote controlled equipment ensures worker safety. The concrete crusher, bucket excavation and adaptable chisel heads can surgically remove concrete from even tight spaces.

Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR)

Today’s excavation calls for precision GPR to be performed before heavy machinery breaks ground. Whether it’s old fuel tanks, water lines, tough rebar or other embedded materials, it’s imperative that workers know what’s hidden below the surface before excavating. Cobra Concrete’s portable GPR system can move from site to site and collect a tremendous amount of data quickly.

The Cobra Concrete team enjoys a comprehensive understanding about the needs of contractors, businesses and homeowners alike. The top-flight crew and equipment brings a soup-to-nuts set of resources to the Milwaukee area. Contact Cobra Concrete for more information or to schedule services.

Determine When to Hire a Concrete Sawing Contractor

Mon, 22 May 2017 21:24:00 GMT

On some construction jobs you may be able to do your own concrete cutting with the tools and manpower already at your disposal, but in other cases it’s wisest to hire a concrete sawing specialist.

Here are three questions to ask yourself when deciding whether the job you’re planning is a do-it-yourself opportunity or whether it warrants hiring professionals.

1. Does the Job Require More Tools and Time than You Have?

Some concrete cutting projects, such as making joints in just-laid concrete slabs, can often be done with handheld saws. But if you need a heavy-duty sawing job, such as one that requires cutting all the way through a slab to access pipes, you’ll need bigger, stronger tools. Professional concrete cutting experts can easily identify which saws and blades to use for the job at hand, and they have a wide range of relevant tools available. If you want to do the job yourself but don’t have all the right tools, your expenses could go way up. The expenses related to doing concrete drilling or cutting on your own could include:

Diamond saw blades
Buying or renting powerful handheld saws
Buying or renting huge concrete-sawing machines
Specialized masonry drill bits
Buying or renting hammer drills

2. Does the Cutting or Drilling Require Precision?

Like any skill set, concrete cutting and drilling skills have to be developed over time before you can achieve mastery. A professional concrete cutter can offer precision performance because of extensive experience with how concrete will respond to a saw blade or drill bit. There are many reasons why you might need a precision cutting or drilling job. For example:

When drilling holes for screws, you need each hole to be neither too large nor too small so the screw will fit properly.
When you’re cutting or drilling decorative concrete surfaces, precision work helps maintain a neat, professional finished appearance.

3. Does the Situation Have Unique Challenges?

If you’re not used to battling the challenges common to concrete cutting, you may find the job very frustrating and anxiety-producing, especially if it’s a particularly tricky one. If the job has to be done in a tight space, requires drilling holes at odd angles, or other challenges, letting experts tackle the job can be best for both your peace of mind and your odds of success.

If you answered “yes” to any of these three questions, you should consider trading your efforts out for expert-level service. And if you have more questions about how Cobra Concrete can help you, contact us today.

4 Things to Know About Concrete Hand Sawing

Thu, 04 May 2017 16:48:00 GMT

When it comes to construction and home improvement, property owners often know the what, but not the why to specific procedures being performed outside or inside the building.

Before hiring any contractor to perform work on your home or business, it is best to ask a lot of questions and find out the reasons for their construction methods. This way if anything goes wrong, you’ll have a better understanding of how to work with a contractor to solve the problem. You’ll also be more prepared for any possible issues that can occur prior to the launching the project. In the case of concrete handheld sawing , below are a few key items that will interest you. Read through the items below and contact Cobra Concrete if you have any further questions.

What Lies Beneath the Surface?

One of the hazards associated with concrete sawing is not knowing what is on the inside of the slab. Whether the concrete is standing vertical or lying flat on the ground, the blade cutting through the concrete could strike something that is positioned against (or in some cases inside) the thick wall or floor. Some of these items may include:

Plumbing and iron pipes
Electrical wiring
Insulation
Nails and fasteners
Foreign objects
Concrete wiring

Cobra Concrete utilized Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR) to mark where any objects may lie beneath the surface. By inspecting your area first, Cobra will be able to identify the hazards and avoid them.

Concrete HAND Sawing is Safe…But Beware

Concrete Handheld sawing should only be performed by trained, certified specialists who have years of experience in the industry. Although the procedure is safe, it is only safe in controlled work environments. Therefore, you should never arrive on-site unannounced. While on-site, make sure you are wearing the proper clothing.

Wait Until the Concrete is Cured

Contrary to popular belief, concrete does not merely dry; it cures. By curing, it seals itself and become both water and air proof throughout the layer. On average it takes roughly 30 days for concrete to fully cure. If you’re planning to hire a company to cut through the concrete, then you need to wait at least a month. Cutting into concrete that is not fully cured can create long-term problems.

Contact Cobra Concrete Today!

If you are looking for a concrete handheld sawing contractor in Arlington Heights, Chicago, or the surrounding Illinois area, Contact Cobra Concrete . We provide a wide range of concrete sawing and cutting services for both residential and commercial properties.

Our Community Involvement

Fri, 28 Apr 2017 18:49:00 GMT

At Cobra Concrete , we believe that success is more than just building a great business. Success also means giving back to the community and creating partnerships with organizations that are helping those in need.

This is why our team gives back in big ways by supporting these organizations with our time, donations, and resources. You can visit our Community Involvement page to find out more about these organizations and how our company remains involved.

Bountiful Hope Farms

Do you know people in your community who could use a little extra help with providing food? Bountiful Hope Farms can help. By partnering with local food pantries, BHF ensures that there is always access to fresh produce and eggs for those who need it.

Marklund

Marklund Little Angels is a home for children and young adults who have severe disabilities and medical needs that require additional attention and care. The Marklund facility provides medical treatment and rehabilitation by utilizing some of the most advanced technology in the industry. Their services are available 24/7. Marklund’s patients are cared for by nurturing professionals who provide a loving and warm environment.

The Muscular Dystrophy Association

MDA is committed to finding a cure for muscular dystrophy amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). In addition, MDA also conducts research for other neuromuscular diseases. The MDA is the largest non-profit MD and ALS organization in the world.

Leukemia Research Foundation

Thousands of children and adults are affected by Leukemia each year. Cobra Concrete is proud to donate to and help this research. For this reason, we support the Leukemia Research Foundation. The LRF channels funding to medical research, patient financial aid, and programs that are designed to spread awareness about Leukemia as well as aid in finding solutions.

American Lung Association

Thanks to the American Lung Association, lung disease can be prevented. The ALA leads the effort to provide research, education, and advocacy for lung health.

JDRF

There is currently no cure for Type 1 diabetes (T1D). JDRF was founded to create funding for research that is critical to curing or eradicating T1D from the planet. Research also helps physicians discover appropriate treatments for their patients.

If you are looking for concrete sawing and drilling services in Arlington Heights, Illinois or the surrounding area, contact Cobra Concrete . We provide a wide range of concrete work for both residential and commercial properties.

Types of Concrete Saws

Mon, 24 Apr 2017 16:27:00 GMT

Concrete installations can be complex, with intricately planned rebar and form design, the final details often require post-pour finesse. Remodeling an existing structure can necessitate disturbing solid concrete to build in new features.

From grooving slabs to removing whole blocks, choosing the right concrete saw keeps your project on schedule and under budget. Read on to learn about the uses and advantages of specific concrete saws.

Chain Sawing

When the job calls for a precision cut-out, the right tool is most likely a hydraulic chain saw. This special chain cutter can excise up to 24 inches in depth with no over cuts. Whether installing HVAC equipment or removing a section of wall, this cost-saving chain saw creates perfect corners and straight lines for your project.

Handheld Saws

For smaller applications that need meticulous cuts, handheld sawing with a circular saw works well. A portable handheld saw can be the right choice when removing small amounts of brickwork or concrete for beam placement, HVAC, embedding flashing metal, and work requiring a six-inch cut or less.

Slab Sawing

With up to 32 inches of cuts, the walk-behind slab saw is much like its handheld counterpart, only much larger. The slab saw may also be referred to as a road or flat saw. This diesel-powered slab saw can handle projects involving roads, bridges, roofs, and water channels. Electric models serve indoor projects such as excavating below grade to install pipes and utility lines, or to remove sections of slab for new surfaces.

Wire Sawing

If your project requires removing large portions of concrete, a wire saw is the best tool. These versatile machines work well on jobs too large for most cutting techniques and saws. They have the capacity to cut lengths and depths unreachable by spindle-mounted blades. Pillars, abutments, foundations, equipment pads, and thick walls can be separated safely with less noise using diamond wire sawing techniques.

Core Drilling

Core drilling enables perfect tubular holes in nearly every surface. From openings as small as one-half-inch up to 60 inches in diameter, core drilling makes light work of creating a hole for wiring, plumbing, anchor bolts, electrical wiring, and cables. Employ a core drilling saw to sample the composition of the inside of a concrete section. These machines can drill at any angle, including upside down.

Wall Sawing

The wall saw is another iteration of the circular saw. Once mounted to a wall, it can cut a depth of three feet into each side. The most popular uses are to remove vertical sections for HVAC modifications, stair and elevator openings, windows, and demolition. It can cut at any angle.

Interior Grinding and Grooving

This type of sawing is ideal for interior grinding and polishing to create anti-slip surfaces, rumble strips, or to remove high points in slab surfaces. Depending on the application, this saw can help eliminate excess effort and expense of removal and re-pouring. It easily creates textured surfaces for interior and exterior jobs.

Cobra Concrete offers all types of concrete cutting and demolition services. With our vast array of concrete saws, no job is too large or too small. As one of the largest sawing and drilling contractors in the Chicago area, we’re available to serve general contractors, specialty industries, and homeowners alike. Fill out the form below to schedule your estimate today.

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We pride ourselves on our commitment to complete client satisfaction and safety, and we have the reputation and track record to prove it.

Concrete Core Drilling Safety Tips for Clients

Wed, 12 Apr 2017 17:13:00 GMT

Concrete work can be hazardous. Companies must train and certify each member of their construction crew to ensure that injuries are minimized or eliminated. Unfortunately, clients do not receive this type of training.

Although it is advised that clients should stay away from construction sites, this is not always the case. In fact, the contractor may sometimes call the client to enter the construction site for business reasons. If you are on or around a concrete core drilling site, here are some safety tips that you should follow:

Wear The Proper Clothing

If you walk onto a site with shorts and flip-flops, don’t be surprised if you stub a toe at the minimum; construction sites are dangerous by their very nature. Proper clothing should include shoes that cover the entire foot, denim jeans, long-sleeve shirts, protective eye wear, and a hard hat. In some cases, you may need to wear gloves and rubber-based overalls to protect you and your clothing from cement.

Never Enter a Site Alone

There’s a saying that rings true almost every day of your life: “You don’t know what you don’t know.” Many of the dangers on a concrete core drilling site are unseen. Thus, you could walk right into a hazard and not even know it. The best policy? Don’t enter a site without a professional to guide you.

Stay Away From Operating Equipment

When working on concrete, floating debris can sometimes be an issue. Concrete, water, sparks, and other debris can fly into the air, even with protective machinery. Equipment can also reach high temperatures from hard work that can cause burns. For all of these reasons, it is wise to stay away from all concrete equipment.

Leave it to the Professionals

All correspondence, including face to face discussions, should occur offsite. Inspections should occur before or after work is being performed, and clients should only be on site if absolutely necessary. If you don’t trust the company performing the work, then hire a company that you can trust. Being on site all the time to ‘make sure the job is done right’, is distracting and increases your chances of getting hurt.

If you are looking for a professional concrete core drilling company in Arlington Heights, Chicago, or the surrounding Illinois area, then contact Cobra Concrete . You can reach us by phone, or send us a message on our contact page . We specialize in high-end residential, commercial, and industrial concrete core drilling. We have the equipment and certified crew necessary to perform all jobs large and small. Contact us today and let us help you with your upcoming concrete project!

cutting concrete wall for window Structures and Doorways

Thu, 06 Apr 2017 15:52:00 GMT

Multi-story concrete buildings don’t always maintain their original value without ongoing updates completed by the owner, maintenance crews, and contractors.

While most of this updating is finished behind the scenes (e.g. updated pipes, stronger foundations, etc.), there are a variety of other changes that are visible to the public. Picking the right concrete sawing contractor is important regardless of the scope of work that needs to be done. It’s especially crucial to choose a company who understands the aesthetics and stability of concrete openings in a building.

Updating a Building

When a concrete building needs doors with more open space, or to change window structures, it might be time to contact a seasoned concrete contractor. Cobra Concrete Cutting Services Co . utilizes wall saws that can handle cutting through up to 36″ of concrete on one side.

Whether you are tackling a small or large concrete structure, Cobra is experienced in maintaining the structural integrity of your building, as well as creating a safe working environment for workers and pedestrians in the area. This is imperative for a structure located in a clustered area with other buildings in close proximity.

Safety Measures

Building regulations change over time, and these changes can affect owners in many different ways. Perhaps more exits are needed, or the doorways need to be widened. Concrete walls need professional cutting services — there is little debate about this.

This project will require a strong understanding of measurement requirements, and also the different types of material that may need to be cut through. Each type of concrete has different properties, and thus the process may need to be altered depending on the thickness and strength of each wall. See Cobra’s latest blog post on the different types of concrete . Cobra Concrete utilizes a variety of saws and tactics for their many projects.

Finding Help

Whether it’s a school, office building, or restaurant, windows and doors are important features that shouldn’t be ignored as time goes by. In addition to letting in light and visitors, they also have can save money on heating and cooling costs. Call Cobra Concrete for experienced and quality concrete cutting and sawing experience.

From the equipment they use to their experienced staff, Cobra’s aim is to complete your unique project efficiently and safely. Contact us for more information.

Cobra Is The Go-To Concrete Removal Company

Mon, 20 Mar 2017 20:32:00 GMT

The construction industry appears to be on track for a banner year. Major government infrastructure contracts are expected, and the repatriation of the manufacturing sector could lead to an increase in rehabilitation projects.

This all points to a great deal of concrete demolition and removal. For those planning renovation projects or bidding on upcoming jobs, you may be well served to consider concrete removal. It’s one more thing to take off your plate, and you won’t need to worry about cost overruns or hiring properly trained workers. By bringing in experienced concrete removal professionals such as Cobra Concrete Cutting Services Co. you’ll save time, money, and ensure your project’s work is completed properly.

Robotic Demolition

One of the many innovations that Cobra Concrete brings to the table is the use of automated demolition equipment. Many areas that need concrete broken up and removed can be hazardous to workers. Between airborne chipped material, falling debris, and the potential for lost structural integrity, it’s often better to keep people out of harm’s way. Our technicians can operate robotic equipment such as concrete crushers and breakers from a safe distance. We come fully prepared with a variety of chisel heads and automated bucket excavation to meet the needs of the toughest jobs. These technologically advanced machines are able to facilitate precision work in uncertain commercial environments.

Skid Steer Machinery

Another benefit of working with removal experts such as Cobra Concrete is the availability of the correct tools and equipment. Skid steers are versatile and able to get into areas some heavy machinery cannot. These are excellent for trenching because the machine can be setup for demo and changed over to excavate debris. Their maneuverability make them ideal for moving in and out of mill buildings, warehouses or clearing away weathered walkways.

Fume Free Excavation

Health quality standards are sometimes difficult to meet in confined industrial spaces. Cobra Concrete has electric excavation equipment that doesn’t emit noxious fumes. This improves the health aspects for employees and provides the added benefit of being able to work on buildings without disturbing the current occupants.

At Cobra, our trained concrete removal team has earned numerous safety and quality awards in the Chicagoland area. We also provide numerous other services including concrete patching, slab cutting and core drilling services among others. At the end of the day, our team gets the job done, reduces the risk of hidden costs and injury from any concrete cutting project. Contact us today to discuss your project needs.

Leave Concrete Cutting Services To The Professionals

Mon, 20 Mar 2017 19:57:00 GMT

Whether you’re handling new construction or rehabilitating and existing structure, the need for concrete cutting will arise from time-to-time. Renting a commercial cutter and a diamond edge blade may seem like a quick fix, but you are far better off subcontracting work out.

First of all, if you hand one of your laborers a saw and a dust mask, you may be looking for new help the following day. Concrete cutting can be tough physical work, and not knowing the tricks of the trade will only make it more difficult and messy. As many contractors know from working with real people, some are just built for certain types of jobs. Successful plasterers, carpenters, masons, and others have a natural aptitude for their type of skilled labor. Concrete cutters are a special breed as well.

So, if you were mulling over the idea of turning concrete cutting into a DIY project for your crew, everyone will be better off if you sub-contract the job out to experienced concrete professionals such as Cobra Concrete Cutting Services Co .

Safety Training

As an employer, it’s important to ensure the highest possible level of employee safety. Think about the powerful cutting abilities of the tools needed to slice through concrete. Putting excessive power into the hands of an inexperienced worker would not be wise. For that reason, the professionals at Cobra Concrete are all OSHA certified, undergo yearly orientations, and attend monthly safety meetings. They also trained in job hazard analysis. These precautionary measures, coupled with on-the-job experience, greatly reduce the risk of serious injury.

Concrete Cutting Services

Like many sectors of the construction industry, concrete workers can perform a variety of tasks that keep projects on track. These include:

Slab Sawing: This may be what concrete cutting companies are most remembered for. Large slab saws can hit depths of 32 inches, using machines with power as high as 110 horsepower. Depending on what the work environment calls for, gas diesel or electric machines can be deployed.

Wall Sawing: Whether the concrete pour left out a space for HVAC ducts or your rehab project needs a doorway cut, wall saws can create precision openings at depths of 36 inches in material ranging from reinforced concrete to red brick to cinderblock.

Grinding and Grooving: Sometimes materials just need to be shaved back or have rumble strips hewn into them and concrete professionals have these niche machines ready to go.

At Cobra Concrete, our trained concrete cutting crew has earned awards and ranked among the safest companies for work in the Chicago-land area. We also provide wire cutting, core drilling, and chain sawing services among others. At the end of the day, our team gets the job done, and reduces the risk of hidden costs or injury for your concrete cutting project. Contact us today.

Concrete Excavation for Mill Rehabilitation Projects

Fri, 10 Mar 2017 17:51:00 GMT

Property speculators are converting defunct manufacturing mills into live-work spaces and modernized businesses across the country. With that real estate speculation comes a tremendous amount of rehabilitation work, which generally includes concrete excavation.

Whether the property owner or a general contractor is calling the shots on the project, decisions will need to be made about how and who will be responsible for the concrete excavation of outdated walls, foundations, and slab floors. If you’re mulling over the idea of getting some tools and a crew to handle the work, there are plenty of good reasons why you are better off sub-contracting the job out to experienced concrete excavation professionals such as Cobra Concrete Cutting Services Co .

Slab Removal

The strength of floors in old mills can go two ways; they can be dense and as tough as diamonds, or brittle. It’s hard to be sure until you start excavating. But what you can be sure of is the likelihood that the initial pour could be deeper in some areas than others, and stone and metal may lay under the surface. Opting for jack and sledge hammers won’t get it done.

Cobra Concrete can bring in trained professionals to slice the floor into manageable blocks. Once cut, machine removal can be both more efficient and cost effective than manual labor. Slab saws also allow for precision cutting to help access or avoid underground pipes.

Wall Modifications

The grand manufacturing plants of yesteryear were designed for old school commercial production. You’ll find heavy bricks, cinderblocks filled with mortar, and concrete walls in places that don’t mesh with an urban renewal plan. Many will require cutting to meet building code exit and egress regulations. Cobra Concrete Cutting Services performs commercial wall sawing up to depths of 36 inches through reinforced concrete. This type of precision concrete excavation will save time and money on the door installation that follows.

Trenching

Another frustrating issue with mill rehab is that the plumbing and drainage rarely seems to run under the areas you need. By utilizing a combination of slab saws, robotic demolition, and smaller electric concrete excavation machines, Cobra Concrete Cutting Services Co. can create trenches for sewage, water or electrical lines throughout a complex.

Safety First

Commercial jobs often call for workers with specialized skills. Companies such as Cobra Concrete understand the specific dangers inherent to this type of work. GPR technologies are used to scan for embedded materials, and underground utilities are identified before excavation starts. And, electric debris removal helps to eliminate fumes that can trigger conditions such as asthma for workers.

At Cobra Concrete Cutting Services Co., our trained concrete excavation crew has earned safety awards and is ranked among the safest companies for work in the Chicago-land area. At the end of the day our team gets the job done, and reduces the risk of hidden costs and injury from projects like a mill rehabilitation project. Contact us today!

Different Types of Concrete Slabs

Fri, 10 Mar 2017 17:49:00 GMT

Modern civilization would look considerably different if concrete technology had not enjoyed continuous improvements over the millennia. Today, concrete and steel skyscrapers grasp at clouds.

Super highways facilitate trillions of pounds of freight from corner to corner of the country and everywhere in between thanks to modern concrete. However, not all concrete has the same composition. What works beautifully for a slab foundation under a home would fail miserably as a support column in a shopping mall. Alternatively, architects prefer to use less expensive materials when the pricey stuff would be extreme overkill for the intended use. So, what are the classic types of concrete, and how are they used?

High-Strength

By lowering the water content and adding silica fume (a by-product of silicon manufacturing), regular concrete becomes extremely strong. Composed primarily of silicon dioxide, these tiny silica fume particles react well in concrete mixes to create an extremely tough and durable product by forming a stronger bond between the cement and the aggregate.

High-strength concrete can take heavy vertical loads. Therefore, it is often used in columns, high-rises, bridges, dams and industrial buildings.

Ultra High-Performance

Superplasticizers (water reducing compounds) and natural fibers added to high-strength concrete lend better workability to a concrete pour. A great side benefit from these admixtures comes in the form of superior strength. Ultra-high performance concrete has both extraordinary compressive strength for vertical loads and tensile strength for horizontal loads.

Because this type of concrete offers a very long life cycle, even in the most extreme environments, it serves well in bridges, dams, roads, high-rises and marine structures such as harbors and surf breaks.

Normal

Manufactured with the usual Portland cement and gravel/sand aggregates, normal concrete performs well in applications that do not include a great deal of height or extreme loads. It’s compressive strength makes for good slab foundations, driveways, walkways, landscaping walls and low structural walls. Lacking the tensile strength, though, slabs must be solidly supported underneath to enjoy length of days.

Pervious

Pervious concrete has large voids in the aggregate that permit water to flow through. It has an appearance rather like caramel corn. The aggregate has enough cement to bind it, but not so much as to render the concrete impervious to liquids. It is very lightweight and must be supported with rebar.

Pervious concrete is popular for driveways and parking lots. Because it allows the water to drain through rather than flow to gutters and storm sewers, pervious concrete serves well in communities wishing to reduce their stormwater infrastructure expenditures. Additionally, by letting the water drain directly into the ground, the local aquifers under urban areas can remain charged.

These are the main types of concrete in popular use today. Other, more specialized concrete, decorative lightweight mixtures, such as stucco and mortar, and air entrained concrete fill in for much of the rest.

Concrete Cutting with Cobra

Cobra Concrete works with every type of concrete when a project calls for sawing, cutting, drilling, or demolition of cured concrete. We can even peer into your concrete to see what lies hidden within or under your building using GPR. With the perfect tools available for every job, Cobra Concrete is here to partner with you on your unique project. Contact us today to speak to one of our expert representatives.

Best Questions to Ask your Concrete Contractor

Tue, 28 Feb 2017 18:00:00 GMT

Finding a concrete contractor can be as simple as a quick online search. Granted, there are various companies to pick from, but choosing the right company for your needs is not as simple. There are a few important things you should consider before hiring a concrete contractor for your project.

Location, Location, Location

You should first ask potential vendors about the service are they cover. Many companies only service a specific area, which is generally a radius around their office location. This may include your work site, but if it does not, you can ask them if they would be willing to widen their work radius to include your project site. Oftentimes companies are willing to work with you if you just ask. Cobra primarily serves the Chicagoland area, but can accommodate locations nationwide depending on the project’s scope.

Project Start Date

All projects have a time table. Whether or not it is met is a different story. Be sure to consider a contractor’s start date. If your project is under a time crunch, choosing a company who can begin right away may save your project from going over budget and over time. Select a company, such as Cobra, who is known for 24/7 access and quick response times.

Safety Concerns

Potentially hazardous working conditions in the construction field can lead to headaches and unnecessary financial burden. At Cobra, you can feel secure knowing each member working on your site has been certified with an OSHA-30 Hour Construction Safety and Health Card. Cobra also implements several annual orientations, monthly safety meetings, and various safety trainings. These are not just for the advantage of our employees but to the advantage of all who are involved on each project. We place high emphasis on the safety of our employees and the conditions they work in, making sure no one is put in a situation they are not trained to handle.

Services Offered

Your project may include a simple excavation or it may require a whole slew of specialized concrete cutting. Cobra offers a wide range of general and specific concrete cutting services and techniques. Cobra experts know which services are best for each specific project, as well as providing these services safely and efficiently. Cobra provides demolition, patching, core drilling, slab, wall, handheld and chain sawing. They also specialize in ground penetrating radar (GPR), which produces valuable time and money saving results!

Cobra Concrete is the premiere concrete cutting company in the Chicagoland area. No matter the size or the scope, your project is important to us. Contact us today.

Is Concrete Robotic Demolition Right for Your Clients?

Tue, 28 Feb 2017 14:45:00 GMT

It is important to take the best-known approach during a complex demolition project, especially in situations where the integrity of surrounding structures are at stake.

If you have never heard or used demolition robots before, you might be wondering if concrete robotic demolition is the best approach for you and your project. There are a few key factors which contribute to the growth of robotics in the concrete industry. These factors may be an ideal solution for your clients’ concrete demolition projects.

Worker Safety

One of the top factors in increased robotics popularity is safety. Concrete removal jobs pose a great risk to workers. There are often accumulating fumes, especially in situations where the area to be demolished is in a tightly confined space. The fume buildup creates not only toxic risks for workers, but also the associated risk of explosions. Falling debris, worker fatigue, and heat stress can all be added to the list of worker safety concerns.

Concrete demolition robots are remotely controlled which protects technicians from any toxic fumes, potential explosions, radiation, and other hazards.

Portability and Flexibility

Fortunately, many of today’s concrete demolition robots are extremely portable. They are able to enter and maneuver effectively in even the most restricted spaces. Robots can pivot as needed and apply precisely targeted and sustained high force to concrete, even at angles difficult for human workers to reach. It is often difficult for workers to maneuver with the array of equipment needed in tightly confined spaces. Machines can be adjusted for specific demolition conditions and activities.

Efficiency and Effectiveness

Another factor in the popularity of robotics for concrete demolition is the resulting productivity. Regardless of the size of the demolition site, robots are not affected by site conditions and continue to operate for extended periods of time. This continuous operation greatly reduces the time and cost factors of any demolition project.

When hiring someone to do a job, you want to make sure it is done safely, effectively, and efficiently. This is the reason robotics have become such a popular standard for concrete demolition projects. We have worked hard to build our reputation, and we work just as hard to maintain it. While we primarily service the Chicagoland and Tri-State areas, we are available for nationwide projects depending upon project scope.

If you are wondering if robotic demolition is right for your project, contact us ! We have the know-how to answer questions about using robotics for your concrete demolition projects or discussing any other concrete cutting needs.

Relationship Advice for Contractors and Companies

Wed, 15 Feb 2017 21:48:00 GMT

As a whole, the business world is experiencing positive and rapid growth progression around the world. The corporate sector is staying consistent with traditional measures, all while adapting to modern trends.

Independent contractors and small businesses are becoming more common, which expands the open market. At Cobra Concrete , our core values have always revolved around integrity, customer satisfaction, hard work, and dedication to our craft. For over 15 years we have proudly served the Chicagoland area with outstanding drilling and concrete sawing. None of this would be possible without maintaining the consistency of our values. Today we are going to share some advice on how we have maintained our success by building positive and dependable relationships with our contractors and clients.

Provide a well-organized portfolio

Before any work begins between a contractor and a company, it is important to initiate a proper introduction. The invaluable element of a contractor/company relationship is having mutual business values. A clear portfolio from both parties allows everyone to understand the style, concepts, and capabilities of each company involved. As a contractor, showcasing the difficulty of tasks you are capable of performing will build interest and trust in you and your company. There may even be a project within your portfolio that is similar to what the current client wants.

Keep open lines of communication

While this may seem like a basic piece of advice, communication is what keeps a successful business relationship afloat. Problems may begin as small, but can become bigger without proper interaction due to the snowball effect. Communication is vital every step of the way. If there are any doubts, concerns, or questions from either party, it is essential to resolve them as soon as possible.

In the concrete business, many tasks and projects take a great deal of time to complete. Avoidable situations may become larger than they initially started, and can waste time and money. No matter the size of your project, be sure you have the contact phone number and e-mail address of the other party. In some cases, setting up an emergency contact can also benefit both parties.

Stay open-minded

A rule-of-thumb in any relationship is to be open to new ideas. While both parties may have amazing, unique, and creative ideas, there may be a better solution to be found with compromise. Combining ideas to complete a task is always better than one side feeling overshadowed. During every project at Cobra Concrete, we welcome our clients to share all of their ideas. We believe the client knows what they want the moment they inquire about our services. We strive to complete our client’s concepts in a safe and affordable manner.

Concrete Scanning

Wed, 08 Feb 2017 18:33:00 GMT

Construction projects are intensive and there are many factors to consider when restructuring walkways, foundations, and other areas with concrete. Concrete can disguise many elements that may pose a threat to construction projects.

It is crucial to identify any potential dangers. Concrete scanning is excellent at locating objects like rebar, post tension cables, and metal pipes. Meeting project deadlines on budget is important and concrete scanning will help you achieve those goals.

Ground Penetrating Radar

Concrete scanning uses ground penetrating radar (GPR) to locate objects. GPR is a mechanical and geophysical device that uses radar pulses to create a subsurface image. It is non-invasive, non-destructive, and typically takes very little time. All types of construction projects use GPR to locate numerous subsurface objects to ensure safety and integrity in the construction process.

Preparation

The initial phase in identifying potential obstructions is to complete a survey of the entire property. A survey will show all known utilities and underground devices. The surface type is an important consideration as well. Hollow and solid concrete slabs have different amounts of rebar and mesh. A complete picture of the site will help to navigate the entire project in an effective way. Once this is complete, a GPR technician can target specific areas that need attention.

Scanning and Imaging

Once site analysis and preparation is complete, the scanning phase of the process will begin. Electromagnetic wands emit radar pulses which the transmitters receive to detect subsurface objects. After collecting the data, the GPR will create an image of subsurface objects and their exact location. These objects are then drawn on the concrete’s surface to provide an accurate layout and dimensions.

Post Scan Analysis

The scan results provide information pertinent to project goals. The results and GPR images are given to the client. 3-Dimensional modeling software is also available to give a more realistic analysis of the site.

Advantages of Concrete Scanning

Concrete scanning is very useful to a number of construction project situations. Embedded objects like rebar and pvc pipe are safety concerns and may damage equipment and harm workers. It is important to have as much information on existing site conditions as possible to avoid potential dangers and limitations. This information will save time, help meet your project schedule, and save money by reducing invasive construction procedures and guesswork.

Concrete scanning is quick and practical. This simple procedure will produce valuable information that will contribute to the success of your project and maintain safety on your job site.

Construction project management takes serious commitment and significant experience. Navigating the many factors that affect the construction process takes knowledge of the best tools and solutions. Cobra Concrete Cutting Service possess extensive experience in concrete cutting, drilling, excavation, and concrete scanning. Their level of expertise will help your concrete construction projects meet your goals. To learn more contact us .

concrete work safety: importance of safety on the job

Tue, 31 Jan 2017 19:09:00 GMT

The importance of safety standards on your job site cannot be overstated. Protecting your assets is paramount to productivity and success.

You work hard to service your machinery and equipment regularly to ensure its efficiency, safety, and longevity with regular preventative maintenance, but have you considered your workers? Perhaps one of your most important assets, they too require special attention to keep them safe and productive. The cost associated with on-the-job injuries is staggering. At Cobra , our team is passionate about safety and mitigates such costs with our thorough and effective safety programs.

Personal Protection Equipment

PPE for employees is critical to achieving an outstanding concrete work safety record. Ensuring its highest quality by providing certified products that comply with government issued standards is key. All trades present specific dangers which can contribute to bodily injury. Concrete cutting in particular, is treacherous work. From eye, ear, and hand protection, to hard hats, steel-toed work boots, and respirators, Cobra employees are fully trained in the proper use of their PPE and comply with our strict guidelines.

OSHA 30

Maintaining a strong safety culture in the workplace is crucial. Cobra’s continued training and education programs allow everyone to get involved, which increases the awareness and proficiency of the safety standards we work hard to implement. Our management and field teams maintain certification with an OSHA-30 Hour Construction Safety and Health Card. New employees must fulfill this requirement to preserve our safety standards.

Team Participation

It takes everyone working together to maintain an exceptional safety record. The workers themselves are usually the first to spot potential job site hazards, so encouraging their participation with ongoing training on recognizing threats and keeping up with their site-specific job hazard analysis sheets, is particularly important. At Cobra, we also utilize annual orientations and monthly team safety meetings with both management and the senior field operators to raise the bar on industry safety standards in our business.

Utilize Experts

In addition to using in-house resources for cultivating site safety, we frequently turn to experts for additional help. Outside consultants and manufacturer representatives are vital resources for safety inspections and equipment training for thriving companies who place such an emphasis on safety. As we offer a versatile array of concrete cutting services, we also make the safety of our employees and those on the job site are our highest priority. We are a proud recipient of the Chicago Association of Subcontractors and Affiliates’ Annual Safety Award. Don’t hesitate to contact us for more information on how our passion for safety can benefit your next concrete cutting project.

Selecting Your Ideal Concrete Cutting Company

Tue, 31 Jan 2017 19:00:00 GMT

Selecting the best company for your concrete cutting project will result in a greater finished project and is an important decision for many other reasons.

When choosing a company, you will want to find one that has abundant resources, considerable expertise in their field, and thorough safety precautions. Examining these factors up front will ensure you and your team are working with the safety and expertise you are looking for, as well as avoiding the problems associated with limited resources. A qualified company will have all the necessary tools on a job-site.

Take into consideration the amount of time professionals spend learning which techniques are most appropriate for each project they encounter. It is beneficial to have these individuals working with you, since they can provide you with more options than you might have considered on your own.

Safety should always be top priority on a job-site. A company with certification that provides classes, as well as training for their employees will ultimately be the best option when making a decision about who to bring onto your project. A company that has a built-in safety program gives comfort to everyone involved on a job site. Cobra Concrete will make sure veryone working is aware of the safety precautions in order to complete the job quickly and efficiently. Cobra has an outstanding safety record due to the OSHA safety program that our field personnel and management are certified in. All employees are trained on filling out site specific job hazard analysis sheets, and we also hold annual orientations and monthly safety meetings.

Cobra Concrete Cutting Services Co. is the leading provider of concrete sawing and drilling in the Chicago-land area serving many industry and trade professions. With over 17 years of experience, we have the equipment, skill, and qualifications to meet the needs of your concrete project. Services are provided in the Tri-State area and are also available to fulfill needs nationwide based on the scope of the job. What is the scope of your project? Cobra is interested in providing a bid. When you are ready to begin your next project, contact us —the most qualified concrete cutting company.

why choose diamond core drilling?

Tue, 31 Jan 2017 18:51:00 GMT

There are many secondary considerations and costs associated with a concrete-cutting job that can quickly run up a renovation bill or even put the contractor at risk of endangering the safety of his workers. The integrity of surrounding structures is also a critical factor to consider.

If a contractor is trying to keep costs down, he may look at a wall and think he can take a concrete saw or a rotary hammer to it, run his electrical conduits, patch it up, and never think about it again. Unfortunately, this decision dismisses the importance of concrete as a structural component in a pre-existing building.

The problems associated with tackling concrete cutting the so-called cheap way may include excess time, expenses, equipment and consumable costs, and the worst problem on a construction site: safety hazards.

When defaulting to a laborer using a rented concrete saw or hammer, immediate expenses are incurred. Without knowing how many hours a worker will take to cut out a piece of concrete, a contractor sets himself up to add hours or days to a tight schedule and a tight budget. Even if a contractor’s budget allows for a laborer to spend a lot of time on this task, running a trunk line into a vault to bring power into a building is a task that can’t wait.

In the unknown time it takes the worker to create an opening large enough for the trunk line to be run, electricians might need to leave the jobsite. Even worse, they might wait on the job and incur thousands of dollars in fees for unexpected delays.

What About Equipment Cost?

The cost in time is enough to set a contractor (not to mention his client!) on edge from the start. A rotary hammer or a concrete saw can be useful for many tasks, but buying one may not be in the budget. Renting this tool might be a cheaper option, but without knowing how long the job might take, even rental fees can become pricey. Cheap blades and bits quickly deteriorate, making new ones necessary and another cost factor. Once the job is completed, the hole will likely require patching before it can be considered complete.

Considering safety around concrete cutting is a must. Concrete demolition creates a risky environment for anyone around. Falling or flying debris can injure a laborer or somebody passing by. Using equipment that causes heavy vibration can damage the structure you are cutting, as well as surrounding structures. Planning a concrete cutting job without using the best available technology or qualified technicians should raise red flags for a contractor concerned with minimizing personal and structural damages.

What Makes Diamond Core Drilling Different?

Diamond core drilling uses a special type of blade that doesn’t wear out easily, immediately decreasing the cost of consumables. Without the danger of wearing out, this process provides a clean cut every time and can accommodate just about any size cut. Furthermore, diamond core drilling takes the least amount and produces the least amount of debris. The nature of the diamond core drilling process is relatively quiet, and does not produce structural vibration.

When planning an important cut to a concrete wall or floor, diamond core drilling should be the first thought in any contractor’s mind. No method of concrete cutting is more economical. Cobra Concrete Cutting provides this service with superior equipment and technicians. Contact us to learn about concrete cutting options suitable for your project.

What Are the Benefits of Diamond Sawing and Drilling

Thu, 19 Jan 2017 16:10:00 GMT

Sawing and drilling tools embedded with diamond grains are the most effective cutting agents in the construction industry. Diamond is known as the hardest substance in the world, and it also possesses other qualities that make it a prime candidate for use in concrete cutting.

The benefits of diamond sawing and drilling are clear cut when compared to other materials commonly used as abrasives. Tools that use diamonds have higher wear resistance, higher grinding efficiency, and a longer lifespan. Diamond saws and drills will help ensure a high-quality cut for concrete projects, and will reduce time and effort.

Synthetic diamonds are a regular fixture in the construction industry. The molecular structure of a diamond is very compact — the smaller the diamond, the greater the density. Smaller crystals cut through harder materials better because they produce a larger cutting surfaces, and larger crystals are used for cutting softer materials. Diamond density is comparable to impact strength, and the ability to withstand heat. This range in size and density allows for a more customizable approach to each unique job.

Diamonds will embed into saw edges and drill ridges through a metal bonding process that utilizes heat to seal the crystals into the edge of the tool. There are also resin, ceramic, and electroplating methods used for bonding. The crystals will fracture over the lifespan of the cutting tool, which creates more cutting surfaces. For this reason, diamond drills and saws are more effective after several uses, which provides an advantage over common abrasive materials, like silicon carbide or corundum.

The cutting surface provides a high resistance to wear, and generates less heat while operating. Diamond saws are less likely to burn or fracture the surface it is cutting, and makes a cleaner cut. Drills with diamond bits also have greater accuracy, and produce less debris than carbine drills, which preserves the concrete’s integrity, and reduces the chances of structural damage. The reduction in equipment wear and operating time translates into cost reduction for your project.

The higher velocity saw blades and drill bits reduce noise. Higher speed produces less resonance, which produces less noise. This feature supports safety in the workplace, as noise damage is a concern on many job sites.

Using the best tools and methods will add a layer of quality to your project. Cobra Concrete offers premium diamond sawing and drilling. Along with top-of-the-line equipment, Cobra places safety above all else on the job. Contact us today to learn more about how our tools can aid in your next project.

Cobra’s Comprehensive Customer List

Fri, 30 Dec 2016 17:55:00 GMT

Cobra Concrete Cutting Services Co. is a full service concrete sawing and drilling contractor. With hard work and dedication, we have successfully grown into one of the largest sawing and drilling contractors in the Tri-State area.

We offer a complete, comprehensive range of services, including:

We offer services mainly in the Chicagoland area, and just opened a new location in Champaign, Illinois, but we can also complete projects nationwide depending on the scope. Additionally, we offer 24-hour service and immediate response times to provide our customers with the highest level of service.

We have a saying at Cobra: “We are cutting the industry out of the Stone Age.” We have revolutionized the concrete sawing and drilling industry through our innovation, but also with our attitude. Always on the cutting edge, our services make it easy for our customers to come to us for all of their project needs. We pride ourselves on our commitment to complete client satisfaction and safety, and we have the reputation and track record to prove it. We provide a level of service and passion that our customers have grown to expect from us. Our goal is to have complete customer satisfaction from the planning stages all the way through the completion of the project.

As such, we work with a wide variety of customers, including but not limited to:

Building Engineers, Architects & Engineers
Municipalities
Home Owners
Contractors: General, Sewer and Water, Plumbing, Electrical, Concrete, Precast and Tilt Up Concrete, HVAC, Sprinkler Fitters, Demolition

Our projects have included a wide variety of buildings, including:

Hospitals, including Alexian Brothers Medical Center and Edward Hospital
Schools, including Northwestern University and several University of Illinois campuses
Malls, including Yorktown Center and Golf Mill
Hotels/Condominiums, including Trump International Hotel and Tower, and the Blackstone Hotel
City Landmarks/Tourist Attractions, including Millennium Park and The Lincoln Park Zoo
Municipalities, including CTA Red and Blue Lines, and O’Hare Airport
Sports Arenas, including Wrigley Field and Soldier Field
Restaurants/Dining, including McDonalds and Morton’s The Steakhouse
Grocery/Drug Stores, including Costco and Whole Foods

If you are searching through concrete company names looking for a reputable firm with reliable services, look no further than Cobra Concrete Cutting Services . We have served the Chicago area since 1999 by providing revolutionary and innovative services to companies in need of concrete sawing and drilling. This vision allows contractors and commercial construction companies to plan projects and meet deadlines with a higher degree of confidence.

Cobra has a reputation for quality and value, from the planning stages right on through to the final stage, and our reputation is built on our experience in the industry. That experience has been gained from listening to our customers, continued education, and from practical application of the right techniques and equipment for each job. We are a Level 2 certified member of the Concrete and Drilling Association, and proud to be subcontractor of the year in 2014. Our team players are members of a variety of local unions such as the Cement Mason’s Union, Electrician and Plumbers Unions, and even the Laborers and Sprinkler Fitters Unions. These divisions help ensure that your needs are met with the skills and experience required, and the quality workmanship you expect. We are available to you 24-hours a day to answer questions, handle emergencies, and arrange work schedules to fit the situation. Contact us today to start your project!

Concrete Cutting—Using the Proper Equipment

Fri, 30 Dec 2016 17:46:00 GMT

Cobra Concrete Cutting Services Co. is the top commercial concrete contractor in the Chicagoland area. When choosing the proper equipment, we first consider these factors.

LENGTH AND DEPTH OF THE CUT

The tools required are based on the length and depth of the cut. For longer and deeper cuts, a walk-behind slab saw is the safest and most efficient tool to use. Slab sawing is also known as flat or road sawing and allows the operator to cut larger areas more efficiently. At Cobra, we have large diesel saws that can cut up to 32” deep, with more than 110 horsepower. The large saws are much heavier and allow for straighter cuts. Self-propelled saws are more efficient for operators to use over long distances. For short and shallow cuts, we use smaller, lower-powered saws that are intended to give the operator precise control over the saw. Our smaller saws are lighter, powered by gas or electric.

CONCRETE Cutting Equipment: MATERIAL FACTORS

The length and depth of the cut is important, but the material being cut can have just as much influence on the type and size of saw required for a particular project. Aggregate, curing time, and sand are important factors to consider when assessing saw/blade needs. Based upon geographical location, the hardness of aggregates can change, thus impacting your equipment. For example, if you use a blade on concrete with a softer aggregate, and then use the same blade on concrete made with much harder aggregate, the reduction in blade life is obvious due to the harder makeup of the concrete. Blade suppliers offer specific recommendations based on different geographical aggregates and cut requirements, which helps match the blade to the requirements of the cut. Different blades operate best at different rotations-per-minute (RPM). Using a high RPM diamond blade at a lower RPM could cause the blade to round out and cease cutting. When scheduling your next concrete project, it is crucial to hire a company that has both experience in that geographical location and with a large variety of different projects.

RELIABILITY

Cobra Concrete Cutting Services Co. has been trusted for over 15 years in the Chicagoland area as one of the largest sawing and drilling contractors. Our projects include: hospitals, universities, malls, hotels, and tourist attractions. The Cobra team consists of professional operators who have the expertise to match the proper saw/blade needs with your cutting project. Our goal is to make sure the job is done precisely, efficiently, and safely. If you have any questions, please contact Cobra Concrete .

What Can You Expect with Cobra Concrete Cutting Services?

Fri, 30 Dec 2016 16:33:00 GMT

At Cobra Concrete Cutting Services, our mission is simple and straightforward:

“To revolutionize the concrete sawing and drilling industry through our innovation and attitude, and provide a level of service and passion that our customers, our employees, and our community desire to experience.”

When you choose Cobra Concrete Cutting Services, you are choosing a full-service company that strives to set industry standards. We provide a complete range of services needed to finish the job, and to finish on-time with high attention to safety and client satisfaction. Our expertise in the following areas will provide excellence in your finished project.

Concrete Sawing & Drilling

Cobra specializes in core drilling, slab sawing, wall sawing, wire sawing, handheld sawing, interior grinding, and chain sawing. With our experience in a variety of sawing and drilling techniques, there’s no need to hire more than one contractor. We can do it all, from core drilling holes that are a half-inch to 60 inches, to the removal of larger structures (bridges, foundations) via wire sawing. For smaller jobs, we will often use handheld saws for efficiency, saving our clients time and money.

Breaking, Excavation & Patching

Robotic demolition, skid steer services, electrical excavation (fume free), and concrete patching are some of the services Cobra offers in this category. We strive to be on the cutting edge of our industry, and the use of robotic demolition equipment keeps us there by providing better solutions for the needs of our clients. Our fume-free electrical excavation allows us to work in places where fumes are not allowed, such as hospitals and plants. The equipment and methods we use give us the ability to work in many different industries and situations.

Utility Locating & Ground Penetrating Radar

We offer full-service utility locating and ground penetrating radar (GPR) to ensure that your company’s needs are fully met when marking and clearing concrete prior to excavation. We provide our services to electricians, plumbers, HVAC, demolition, and general contractors, and our technicians are trained to look at the whole picture before making any suggestions and proceeding with work.

The use of GPR in recent years has become extremely useful in locating structures beneath concrete, asphalt, and soil. Our machines are portable, allowing our technicians to move quickly the job site, gathering large amounts of data. Objects typically found under surfaces include rebar, pipes, conduits, and more. These objects don’t have to slow progress, or come as a surprise to the excavating crew.

Cobra Concrete Cutting Services provides expertise for many different types of projects. Past projects include hospitals, schools, malls, hotels/condos, city landmarks/tourist attractions, municipalities, drug/grocery stores, restaurants/dining, and sports arenas.

We believe that you will find Cobra Concrete’s excellence an asset, whether the job is small or large. We are versatile, and work with all project stakeholders: architects, engineers, general contractors, and property owners. Our reputation and experience speak for themselves. Contact us today to discuss your project.

The Purpose of Control Joint Cuts

Fri, 30 Dec 2016 16:20:00 GMT

Cobra Concrete Cutting Services Co. has over 15 years of experience cutting concrete in the Chicagoland area for a variety of large commercial projects . While primarily focusing on serving the Tri-State area, Cobra Concrete is available for service in other states based on requirements.

Our experience gives us the expertise to cut many different types of concrete. We have a team of experts that can plan and cut control joint, to ensure the longevity of your concrete pour.

WHAT ARE CONTROL JOINTS?

Control joints are preplanned cuts in concrete that help control where and how cracks appear in poured concrete. Concrete shrinks as it cures and will change in response to temperature. A large area of poured concrete is likely to crack, especially when up against a foundation or street curb. Placing a control joint into a slab means carefully placing planned cuts into the concrete to allow cracks underneath the surface to be straight and not disturb the surface aesthetics.

Control joints are generally cut to be about one fourth of the thickness of the slab. Spacing control joints are not as formulated as depth due to factors like slab type, dimensions, and the kind of concrete. A general rule of thumb for spacing is 24 to 30 times the slab thickness. Control joints can be left one of three ways: as is, sealed, or filled. Sealing is done with a flexible material. “Filling” involves filling the entire joint to withstand heavy traffic. Concrete floors that will not have extremely heavy loads can be left as is. Our team of experts can assist in planning, location, and depth of control joints.

WHEN TO SAW CONTROL JOINTS

Sawing control joints into concrete takes experience. The time window for cutting poured concrete can vary based upon weather conditions and mix designs. Cutting freshly poured concrete too late can lead to unwanted cracks in the concrete, rendering the joints ineffective. Too early and the concrete will not have cured enough to support the saw and operator. Joints should be sawed as soon as the concrete can withstand the energy of sawing without raveling or dislodging aggregate particles.

when is it too late to cut concrete?

For most concrete work, cutting should take place within the first 6 to 18 hours and never beyond 24 hours. Smaller early-entry saws are available, which may allow cutting to begin within a few hours after placement. When sealing or filling control joints, it is important to wait longer so the joint can widen and any cracks can take place. At Cobra, we use many unique saws for each job depending on the need. Our team will recommend timing and appropriate equipment for precise cutting.

IMPORTANCE OF CONTROL JOINTS

Cutting control joints are not absolutely necessary in every situation. Concrete can be reinforced through different additives and even steel bars located underneath the surface. As other methods are used to keep cracks to a minimum, using control joints is best practice.

Placing control joints in a slab will help keep cracks from becoming visually noticeable and spreading. In an ideal pour and control joint location, any cracks formed by concrete shrinking will actually occur inside the control joint. When cracking takes place within the joint, it helps control random, ugly cracks that are seen on the top of the surface. Cracks outside of a joint can occur and might be attributed to deficiencies in the concrete mix or curing conditions. Even with minor cracks outside of a joint, you can expect significantly less cracking in a poured slab if control joints are cut with the proper spacing and depth.

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We pride ourselves on our commitment to complete client satisfaction and safety, and we have the reputation and track record to prove it.

Concrete Diamond Grinding: Pavement Restoration at its Best

Fri, 02 Dec 2016 16:09:00 GMT

Replacing a concrete driveway because it has faults, or a rough surface, can prove highly expensive. Diamond grinding concrete is the answer to such problems. This technique is often used with other concrete preservation techniques and is indispensable to concrete repair companies.

Diamond grinding tackles numerous problems that arise overtime to concrete surfaces. Nature and use-over-time often challenge the concrete by affecting its surface, or compromising its structural integrity. Faults, cracks, bumps, ruts, and even fissures begin to appear. Concrete smoothness is also a problem, and though very important, receives less attention than other surface irregularities.

Diamond grinding is popular and successful because of the way it works. “Diamond grinding involves removing a thin layer (4-6 mm) at the surface of hardened cement concrete by using closely spaced diamond saw blades. The blade assembly cuts tiny grooves in the pavement surface, providing texture as it smooths down surface irregularities,” as described by the Grooving and Grinding Association.

Sidewalks provide good example of faults in concrete. Faults usually occur at transverse joints where two slabs come together. One rises above the other, creating a possible hazard, while inviting a possible lawsuit. Diamond grinding levels the two surfaces, but it adds the advantages provided by friction, while also improving the surface. As a result, the procedure creates a better walking environment.

On roadways, faults and other surface irregularities appear overtime. Continued impact with car tires and weathering challenge the surface. In a special report released by Concrete Pavement Technology and Research , “Increased roughness due to faulting, settlement and wheel-path rutting due to studded tires,” served as the prime contributors to surface deterioration.

Diamond grinding on roadways and other concrete structures is that it militates against hydroplaning by smaller vehicles. The grooved surface left after grinding provides a dual function. The grooves enhance friction and facilitate channeling water away. Increased safety is the result, in addition to providing drivers with a smoother ride. Some insist that under certain conditions, the roadway is better after diamond grinding, than a brand new surface.

Most studies confirm that the technique does not harm the concrete’s structure. Employing this method to smooth out ruts, faults, and dips, serves to evenly distribute the load across the road’s surface as the vehicles move down the roadway. This puts less stress on the surface, promising fewer repairs, while extending its life.

Deciding to repair raises the common question of how long will it last, which is also a cost factor. Pavement grinding repairs tend to last longer. Calculations indicate that the process substantially prolongs the life of cement, asphalt roadways, driveways, gutters, far beyond their expected life, without subtracting from the surface’s integrity or underlying structure.

Contact Cobra Concrete Cutting for any questions concerning the uses, benefits, and advantages of diamond grinding.

Who to Trust with Your Concrete Renovation

Fri, 02 Dec 2016 16:04:00 GMT

Construction companies are busier than ever since the renovation bug has seemingly bitten most everyone.

The explosion of shows on television displaying the possibilities of renewing older properties, whether for personal occupation, transforming buildings into retro work spaces, or even for the purposes of “flipping” a run-down home or business to make a profit, have created a new and ever-growing demand for companies that can make this possible. Some people attempt to do it themselves, but soon realize that the people on television usually utilize a skilled contractor or construction company to make their vision of a true renovation come to fruition.

Cobra Concrete Cutting specializes in concrete contracting work, and can aid in your next project. We provide core drilling , cutting , concrete removal , ground penetrating radar , and more. Does your renovation require extensive concrete demolition? Cobra works with contractors to get the job done effectively and efficiently. When we are on the job, the construction and renovation companies can concentrate on what they do best, and leave the concrete issues to us.

What to Consider Before Drilling into Concrete?

We can check under concrete slabs, foundations, sidewalks, bridges, driveways, and parking lots for rebar, electrical lines, drainage pipes, or any other obstacles that may have been buried and paved over in the past, before demolition begins. Oftentimes, diagrams for older construction are unavailable or do not exist, especially on private property. Thus, our ground penetrating radar reveals exactly where these anomalies are so we can cut and drill around them, or through them, allowing us to make a safe concrete removal in a smooth and efficient manner.

What Services Does Cobra Provide?

To learn more about the services Cobra can provide, contact us . We primarily work in the Chicagoland area, but have recently opened a new office up in Champaign Illinois to service more than just Northern Illinois. We work with many types of contractors, as well as homeowners. Regarding renovations, paint and drywall are easily fixed, but when it comes to tackling concrete structures, trust our many years of experience. Cobra Concrete works on projects ranging from bridges, malls, municipalities, and home excavations.

Find Concrete Company Names with a Reputation for Excellence

Fri, 11 Nov 2016 16:56:00 GMT

Are you searching through concrete company names looking for a reputable firm with reliable quality services? Cobra Concrete Cutting Services Co. has been serving the Chicago area since 1999.

When our doors opened, it was with the goal of providing revolutionary, innovative services to companies in need of concrete sawing and drilling. This vision allows contractors and commercial construction companies to plan projects, and meet deadlines with a higher degree of confidence.

Reputation

Cobra has a reputation for quality and value. We put forth our best efforts from the planning process to the final stage. Part of this process includes listening carefully and speaking up when there may be a problem or issue with the project. Using state-of-the-art technologies such as GPR (Ground Penetrating Radar), allows experienced crews to locate rebar, pipes, and lines in order to avoid accidents and injury for all members. These methods also provide contractors with the information necessary to identify areas of deterioration and other obstacles that may affect the workload before breaking ground.

Experience

Reputations are built on the experience gained from education, practical application, and a commitment to meeting the customer’s needs. Using the right techniques and equipment for each job provides the security and reliability contractors and construction companies need when it comes to drilling and cutting concrete cores, slabs and walls.

Cobra Concrete is available 24-hours a day to answer questions, handle emergencies, and arrange work schedules to fit the situation. Whether it is electrical excavations or skid steer services, having a knowledgeable crew on hand helps keep the project on time and moving smoothly from start to finish.

Licenses and Awards

As a Level 2 certified member of the Concrete and Drilling Association, Cobra Concrete Cutting Services Co. is proud to be an annual safety award recipient, as well as subcontractor of the year in 2014. As one of the fastest growing companies, Cobra is committed to maintaining a high level of quality while using current technologies, methods, and techniques for your concrete services.

Our team players are members of a variety of local unions such as the Cement Mason’s Union, Electrician and Plumbers Unions, and even the Laborers and Sprinkler Fitters Unions. These divisions help ensure your needs are met with the skills and experience required to provide the quality workmanship you expect, while meeting a high standard of safety.

Services

Cobra Concrete Cutting Services Co. provides a wide variety of services for both contractors, and commercial construction projects. Whether you require wire sawing , interior grinding and grooving or concrete patching , our teams have the extensive training, experience and education required to work well together in order to finish in a timely manner.

Our versatility allows many industries to benefit from our full service trade professions. We work with architects and engineers during the planning phases, as well as with general contractors and property owners throughout the project. Contact Cobra Concrete Cutting Services Co. to discuss your plans, and we will work hard to keep you on time, within budget, and well-informed during every phase of the project.

Concrete Demolition & Removal Services

Tue, 01 Nov 2016 16:05:00 GMT

Did you know the weight of a cubic yard of concrete can weigh anywhere from 2000 – 3500 pounds? When removing concrete from a job site, this weight is important to keep in mind. Do you have the right equipment and appropriately trained technicians to get the job done?

At Cobra Concrete Cutting , we have over 15 years of experience in all phases of concrete cutting, removal, patching, and more. We now offer concrete removal in our newest location in Champaign, as well as our location in Arlington Heights. The services we offer include removal, but also sawing and drilling, ground penetrating radar to locate underground utilities, and bridge deck inspections. We offer several types of removal methods, including robotic, skid steer, fume free electrical excavation, and patching.

Robotic Demolition: This type of demolition is versatile, as the robot can access areas unsafe for technicians to operate machinery. The trained technicians make this process efficient and can save you money with our concrete crusher, breaker using multiple chisels, and a bucket for excavation.

Cobra Concrete Cutting offers additional services as well. Please feel free to contact us at your convenience to learn more about the services we provide.

Cobra Concrete Cutting is a privately owned business that supports many different community organizations. Organizations such as Little Angels, Muscular Dystrophy Association, Leukemia Research, Junior Diabetes Research Fund, American Lung Association, and Bountiful Hope Farms, keep our management and employees well-rounded and engaged in our community. Cobra holds many awards like the ASA for the Sub-Contractor of the year 2014, a Level 2 certification from the Concrete and Drilling Association, they are members of the Better Business Bureau, and hold multiple safety awards. Cobra gives customers peace of mind and confidence in their expertise.

GPR Scanning: Chicago Concrete Scanning Service

Tue, 01 Nov 2016 13:42:00 GMT

Starting work on pre-existing concrete structures is difficult to plan, as various materials can be hidden inside any given slab. These obstacles, such as pipes and rebar, must be located before work can start.

Cutting concrete blindly can result in personal injury, or costly damage to the property. To avoid the risk of injury, x-ray machines have traditionally been employed to scan the inside of concrete slabs in order to map its contents. However, this process is slow, clunky and potentially unsafe due to the radiation the x-ray machine generates. A far better alternative is the “GPR” system like the one used by our team at Cobra, the premiere Chicago concrete scanning service .

What is GPR Scanning?

Ground penetrating radar is a non-invasive and non-destructive process that utilizes radio waves to scan and map the area within a concrete slab. Cobra utilizes a series of electromagnetic wands and transmitters to scan through concrete slabs that are up to 18 inches thick. Using these devices allows us to detect obstacles such as piping, rebar, beams, mesh, and more. GPR is accurate within a 1/4″ inch, and in addition to locating obstacles, it can accurately map areas of deterioration caused by rebar corrosion.

How does GPR scanning work?

At Cobra, we perform concrete scanning using a three-step approach.

First, is an initial assessment of the work area. We examine the work space to determine the integrity of the existing concrete and its subsurface. During the examination, we locate any potential factors that could limit the scan. Some of these limitations can come from accessibility (such as obstructions in the area from walls or other structures), rough or damaged surfaces that interfere with the scanning equipment, or trough areas of pan-decking which may conceal metallic objects within their configuration.

Once the initial assessment is complete, we complete the scan of the area. The results are seen in real-time and we mark the location of each object on the surface as we go, allowing us to create a working layout of the area.

We also take photographs of each located object as the scan progresses. These photographs are key to our third step in which we create a 3-D inspection model that fully maps out all detected items for analysis. The model can then be used to easily plan where the concrete slab should be cut.

x-ray vs Gpr for concrete scanning

GPR is faster and more efficient than x-ray. It quickly and easily covers concrete slabs of any length or width, whereas x-ray machines typically require specifically sized squares (1’x1′, 2’x2′) to scan properly.

Additionally, GPR scanning is considerably safer than x-ray, as it utilizes very high frequency waves, much like Wi-Fi and cellphones. As a result, it is completely safe to use for our technicians and anybody else working in the area. This differs from an x-ray machine which typically requires the site around the scanned area be cleared.

If you have questions regarding the GPR process, Cobra offers 24-hour emergency services and scheduling, contact us at anytime.

Receive a FREE Quote On Your Next Job

We pride ourselves on our commitment to complete client satisfaction and safety, and we have the reputation and track record to prove it.

How to Cut Concrete Slabs Efficiently

Tue, 01 Nov 2016 13:41:00 GMT

The idea of trying to cleanly and safely cut through concrete can be intimidating. In basic construction, one of the most common tasks that presents itself is the modification of existing concrete.

Whether it be a foundation, a wall, sidewalk, or anchor slab, it is hard to know if you have the right expertise and the right tools to get the job done. Cobra Concrete Cutting provides safe and efficient services, and is available 24/7 to answer any questions or concerns.

What should I consider before cutting?

Our skilled and highly trained employees set about their jobs with safety in mind: both theirs, yours, and your property’s. Are you afraid there may be pipes, cables, lines, or other dangerous objects lurking under your concrete? Cobra has the ability to examine underneath concrete with ground penetrating radar as a way to visualize where they can make cuts. This way, Cobra can safely proceed while cutting your slab without having worry about disturbing a gas line or electrical conduit. This state of the art method is safe, quick, and precise. The first thing Cobra looks for is any objects under the surface. The team will mark the items on the surface to alert our employees or any other workers you may have.

Does Cobra have the right equipment for my job?

Are you concerned with the thickness of the concrete slab? Cobra has a wide range of slab saws that can cut through a thickness of up to 32 inches. The slab saws come in both electric and gas (diesel). When operated by our technicians, they are very effective and efficient. If you are worried that the job requires special equipment, or that the job might not require any heavy-duty machinery, we have the right tools to finish any concrete job. We have hydraulic and electric handheld saws, that can cut thinner slabs up to six inches. In the case of a larger job, like a wall opening, we have chainsaws for cost-effective and precise cutting. No concrete slab is too thick or thin, too oddly placed, or too difficult to shape. We have our machinery regularly inspected, and performing properly for your job.

If you are a busy, hardworking professional, then you do not have time for surveying, scanning, restricting an area, or worrying over specific machinery and equipment. We take the guesswork out of trying to choose, rent, or maintain your own machinery, which frees up your time to start new consultations or work with other clients. Sometimes the easiest way to perform a job like this is to contact a professional company that specializes in the task at hand. It can save you valuable time, money, and resources. Cobra Concrete is the cutting edge of concrete services in the Chicago area. Contact us today, and we will safely, efficiently, and cost-effectively provide the service you need.

Concrete Wall Sawing – Why Precision Cutting Matters

Tue, 01 Nov 2016 13:39:00 GMT

Commercial construction projects require precision-oriented cuts in equally challenging materials, such as brick and concrete.

Wall sawing utilizes a track-mounted saw that allows for precise cuts in walls, floors, roofs, footings, and beams. It is vital to make precise cuts, especially when preparing for elevator openings, windows, doors, stairs, HVAC openings, and more.

Know What You Need

It is also imperative to plan for the depth of the cut needed. Concrete wall sawing often requires sawing depths of up to three feet on each side, or a total depth of up to six feet. When hiring a specialist, ensure that their saws can provide the depth you need. Some services offer shorter blades, and will not be able to perform the job you require. Devices such as those employed by Cobra Concrete Cutting Services Co., allow for flush cuts. With both electric and hydraulic wall sawing capabilities, Cobra’s approaches are versatile as well.

Wall saws, also known as concrete track saws, use a diamond blade that allows for horizontal and vertical cuts. This is important when cutting on a steep incline. You need openings that are precise, and edges that are smooth and ready for fixture fit. Choose only seasoned professionals with high-quality machinery for your job, and you will save time, money, and headaches. Since concrete services often charge by the linear foot, one estimate may come in considerably higher or lower than the other; be sure to factor in the company’s experience and machinery.

Conventional vs Diamond Cutting Techniques

Compare conventional concrete removal techniques with today’s diamond-cutting technology. Conventional methods are painfully slow, loud, and labor-intensive. Wall sawing with updated machinery allows faster material removal, and is relatively quiet. Conventional methods yield ragged cuts that offer a poor fit, and considerable patchwork is required, which creates yet another timely delay.

Dirt, debris, and excessive rubble are also components involved in conventional concrete removal. Diamond cutting systems employed by cutting-edge specialists protect your site from disarray, allowing for less cleanup, fewer workers, and protection for surrounding structures. Concrete service companies with the latest equipment can also work in tighter spaces, and even in remote environments.

Certifications to Consider

Careful consideration of a wall cutter’s experience and certification, along with understanding the type of machinery the company employs, ensures that a job is done with efficiency, precision, and integrity. The CSDA, or Concrete Sawing and Drilling Association, provides classes and certification for concrete companies and their employees. Look for professionals and service companies with non-profit CSDA certifications and you will find experienced, vetted workers.

If you have a wall sawing job that requires precision cuts done by certified craftsmen, contact Cobra Concrete . Our workers are experienced, and highly qualified. Our equipment offers all the cutting-edge advantages you want for a job done well. Offering certified, high-level concrete services in the Chicago area, including our new site in Champaign, we pride ourselves in safety, reliability, and exceptional customer service. You want your wall-sawing, concrete or masonry job done right the first time, and so do we.

Experienced Cobra Team Opens Champaign Concrete Excavation Office

Fri, 30 Sep 2016 16:54:00 GMT

Cobra Concrete Cutting Services opened an office in Champaign, IL. We brought along with us our 17 years of experience in concrete excavation, breaking, and concrete patching.

Everyone in the construction business, large or small, at some point, faces the task of concrete excavation. Whether repairing or renovating, Cobra is prepared to make any concrete excavation job as seamless and efficient as possible.

There is much to consider before deciding to break-up and attempt to remove concrete. Our excavation crew will work closely with your project foreman. We will not only plan for the most efficient removal method, but also understand and work within the overall site plan.

Mini Excavators, Demolition Robotics & More

Cobra’s electric mini excavators eliminate the need for hand digging. Our equipment can perform fume-free, which is perfect for working in the proximity of others. We can work in tight places where other equipment may not be able to go. We also have properly trained and experienced operators, who only work in the concrete field.

Also on staff, Cobra has remote-controlled demolition robotic equipment, which features a concrete crusher, a breaker with multiple chisels, and a bucket for excavation. This equipment can reach areas that are less-safe for a technician to work.

Our skid steer services for breaking and removal, will breakdown trenches and take down walls, removing pieces to dumpsters or trucks as needed. In tighter areas, our equipment can break pieces down to size for removal by hand when necessary.

Additional Office Opens in Champaign

In Chicago-land, Cobra has worked with some of the top names in the business on projects for schools, hospitals, malls, condos, city landmarks, and tourist attractions. We are excited about bringing our equipment and expertise for Champaign concrete excavation to the area.

As in our Chicago office, we offer 24-hour immediate response services, realizing that not everyone is on the same time-frame, and that emergencies can and will arise.

Safety the Number One Priority

We have added additional experienced field personnel, who have obtained their OSHA-30 Hour Construction Safety and Health Card. With safety being our number one priority, all employees attend safety meetings and receive additional safety training as needed.

When working in concrete there is always the possibility of electrical conduits, water pipes and other potential hazards buried within, or underneath the concrete. Our experts, with specialized antennas, will scan the area for possible obstructions before we cut and excavate.

We can patch back precast or wall panels, and also patch around doors and windows. We assure that these newly patched areas will not buckle or shift as they set. We are proud of the relationships we have built in the construction industry. Some of our awards and accolades include: ASA 2014 Chicago Subcontractor of the Year, Concrete and Sawing Drilling Association Level 2 Certification, ASA Chicago Safety Award Recipient, and Ranked #42 in the Inc. Magazine “Fastest Growing Construction Companies in the Country.”

Explore our website to learn more about who we have worked with, and what concrete work we handle. Contact us for a quote on your next project.

A Cut Above the Rest: Cobra Concrete’s Core Concrete Cutting Services

Thu, 29 Sep 2016 17:32:00 GMT

Here at Cobra Concrete Cutting Services Co., we take pride in our experience, expertise, and top-of-the-line equipment. When you choose to work with our company, you can rest assured that you are getting one of the best cut and core concrete cutting services in the industry.

We offer core concrete services, and our seasoned team can tackle any problems you may encounter. All new hires, personnel, and management attend monthly safety meetings and come certified with an OSHA-30 Hour Construction Safety and Health Card in order to maintain our high safety standards. No matter what job you need done Cobra is available here 24 hours a day to help complete it safely and efficiently.

Despite concrete cutting’s misleading name, the process itself actually involves grinding down the concrete. Concrete saw blades hold diamonds set into place to create an abrasive surface, which grinds away at the concrete at high speeds, essentially “cutting” away at the material. Sharpening a diamond blade differs from how you would sharpen any other type of cutting utensil. As the blade itself gets worn down, new diamonds become exposed, allowing for continual use. Armed with our experience from servicing large contracting companies and municipalities, we provide the capability and skilled manpower to help you with your next concrete project. Our trained team of professionals come with extensive knowledge in many forms of cut and core concrete cutting methods such as Core Drilling, Wire Sawing, and Slab Sawing.

Core Drilling

If a round hole is what you require, then Core Drilling is our method of choice. We perform Core Drilling when exact, circular cuts are necessary. Our craftsmen can drill anywhere from 1/2″ to 60″ inch diameter holes and to virtually any depth. Our top-of-the-line core drills can cut various hard surface types like cement, rocks, and wood.

Lubricated with water for a dust-free operation, Core Drilling is the cleanest way to penetrate a concrete surface with circular precision. This technique ensures the safe-keeping of the structural integrity in surrounding areas by pushing through the surface in a twisting motion.

Typical applications of this procedure include HVAC openings, plumbing lines, floor drains, anchor holes and fiber optic runs. Other common implementations involve floor drains, sewer drains and tie-ins, and concrete testing samples.

Wall Sawing

Our Wall Sawing techniques precisely penetrate reinforced steel concrete, metal, masonry walls, and any other type of tough material in your way. Our team of skilled personnel can make full depth cuts in walls for door and window openings with no structural damage, making the pneumatic breaking of concrete walls obsolete. Our state-of-the-art Wall Sawing tools are able to make precise cuts in horizontal or vertical surfaces.

Cobra Concrete Cutting Services Co. is proud to offer either hydraulic and electric options for Wall Sawing. Our hydraulic wall saws provide more than enough power to saw through the toughest and thickest materials for your assignment. Alternatively, our electric wall saws can easily get to those hard to reach areas without compromising horsepower.

The most labor intensive of all concrete cutting jobs, Wall Sawing is the typical procedure for cutting doors, elevator openings, and most other building modifications.

Slab Sawing

Whether your job is sawing on a roof or inside a building, Cobra has the best saws and operators to complete your job efficiently. Requiring only one operator, our slab saws feature a diamond blade mounted on a walk-behind machine. We offer three top-of-the-line slab saw models to fit your job’s needs – gas, diesel or electric. Our saws are powerful, ranging from five to one-hundred and ten horse power and have a cutting depth of up to 32″ inches.

Slab Sawing is now commonly used in the repair and rehabilitation of concrete floors, asphalt parking lots, and roadways. This procedure is most widely used on concrete slab, suspended slab, bridge decks, and asphalt. Common Slab Sawing practices include removal of large areas of slab to make room for new concrete surfaces and cutting below grade trenches to install pipes.

Wire Sawing

Large concrete masses, metal engine blocks, and even copper chunks are no match for our proficient Wire Sawing division. If working space is already crowed or the material is too resilient for our conventional cutting methods, we substitute them for our Wire Sawing techniques. Our wire saws can cut anything at any depth, ranging from concrete masses to underwater piers.

Wire Sawing provides full depth cutting for any configuration of concrete walls or foundations by wrapping our diamond wire around and pulling. This procedure creates little noise and is the safest option for large-scale concrete removal.

Virtually nothing is impossible for our Wire Sawing division and it continually proves itself as a vital part of our success. Our customers benefit from the plentiful knowledge and experience of Diamond Wire Sawing on their projects. There are few objects – if any – that Cobra cannot cut with our top-of-the-line diamond wire saws.

Handheld Sawing

Over cutting corners becomes eliminated by our Handheld Sawing method. Handheld Sawing provides easy portability and speed to your projects, making it a more cost-effective option then the other cutting methods. Our state-of-the-art handheld saws are available in the hydraulic or electric models, depending on your particular need and are able to cut up to a 6″ depth.

Handheld Sawing is ideal for inside job sites with restricted working space. The hand saw can safely and effectively cut materials such as concrete, pipes, manholes and other strong material. These saws are carefully designed to cut flush with existing floors and walls to create HVAC openings and small openings for windows and doors.

For more information about services please contact Cobra Contrete .

Cobra Concrete: Experts in Sawing and Drilling

Thu, 29 Sep 2016 13:45:00 GMT

Contractors in need of competent, reliable concrete work done, count on Cobra Concrete Cutting Services Co. Founded in 1999, Cobra is privately owned and has grown into one of the largest and most successful concrete sawing and drilling contractors in the Chicago area.

While primarily focusing on serving the Tri-State area, Cobra Concrete is willing to carry out jobs on a national scale based on the requirements of the tasks at hand.

Known for its safety and innovation, Cobra is one of the leading concrete companies in business. Their mission statement clearly represents what they hope to achieve, quoted below.

“To revolutionize the concrete sawing and drilling industry through our innovation and attitude, provide a level of service and passion that our customers, our employees and our community desire to experience.”

Cobra Concrete is, of course, a contractor that prides itself in its sawing and drilling capabilities. Among the services offered in those fields, they provide:

Core Drilling
Handheld Sawing
Wire Sawing
Horizontal Curb Cutting
And More!

Cobra is also capable of completing any removal jobs needed, including but not limited to:

Offering a twenty-four hour service, as well as immediate response times, you will know that your job will be done in the most time-efficient manner possible when hiring Cobra. Not only are they time effective, but their safety ratings are some of the highest. All field personnel and management have to be certified with an OSHA-30 Hour Construction Safety and Health Card to be able to be qualified to work for Cobra. As such, you can put your mind at ease about the safety of all those working on or near your project.

Cobra, through its dedication to a job well done, has been honored to receive multiple awards over the past fifteen years. They’ve come out on top, becoming the leading concrete and drilling subcontractors in the Chicago-Land area, and holding steady with that title for over a decade. Two such awards they’ve received are:

Annual Safety Award from American Sub-Contractors and Affiliates
ASA Awards 2014 – Subcontractor Of The Year Award

Cobra Concrete is also proud to say that they donate time, support and services to multiple charities in the Chicago area, as well as nationwide. Little Angels and The Leukemia Research Foundation are two such organizations that Cobra supports, among quite a few others. Cobra hopes to make the world a better place for everyone living in it, and contracting on your projects aids Cobra is fulfilling this charitable mission.

Whether it’s drilling, excavation or sawing, Cobra is just the company you need for all of your concrete work. As the best in the field, they know the easiest, most cost-effective and timely solutions to any problem you could possibly throw at them.

If you’re looking to hire a subcontractor for a concrete project, contact Cobra today. See our new listing on concretecontractor.com .

Concrete Issues on the Job? Use Concrete Safety Syst

Fri, 23 Sep 2016 22:28:00 GMT

Concrete Safety systems: Your Job, Your Concerns

You have a huge task ahead, and though you have contracting expertise, you know this job has multiple challenges, including the most solid challenge of all: concrete. Here are some issues to consider when working on a project that involves concrete.

Demolition and Job Safety

When you have tight spots that require concrete demolition, the last thing you need is injuries on the job. Search for a company that offers demolition robots . These remote-controlled devices can go into spaces that are unsafe for your employees, demolish unneeded concrete, and even help in the excavation process. With multiple chisel points and a bucket for loading debris, a demolition robot offers you job success combined with employee safety. Skilled and properly trained employees can guide demolition robots to do jobs efficiently and safely, working alongside your employees as they complete safer aspects of the demolition process.

Concrete Scanning

Do you know what is beneath or within the pre-existing concrete on your job? Could there be cables, existing electrical lines, water lines, or phone connections underground? Ensure you do not invoke costly mistakes by working with a company who provides the clarity of concrete scanning services . Effective services can identify the location of rebar, PVC pipe, cables, and electrical conduits on your site that are encased in concrete slab. Save time, stress, and extra expenses by working with a company that offers concrete scanning. Precision-focused concrete companies not only identify hidden issues on the job, but provide work-around capabilities as well.

Concrete Sawing

Demolition and scanning is not all you have to consider. Ensure you can complete your job with efficacy by choosing a concrete company well-versed in the precision of concrete sawing .

Most high-profile construction jobs require the assurance and ease of precision cuts. Whether you are cutting concrete for elevator access, stairwells, windows, or HI-Vac units, you want the job done right. Work with a company that understands the intricacies and importance of the cut, and you will save both time and money as you avoid patchwork repairs that slow down the construction process. Precision cuts save time as you avoid the timely and costly repairs of patchwork from cut or repair estimates.

Concrete Patching

As a skilled contractor, you understand and envision places where you can save your client both time and money. Concrete patching services are a way to meet both your needs as a contractor and the timelines of your client.

Look for Certifications

The CSDA, or Contract Sawing and Drilling Association, provides credentials for well-trained professionals. Ask for credentials from the professionals you hire for your job. If the company does not provide credentialed employees, you should look for another company to ensure your job is done right. ASA, or Association of Subcontractors and Affiliates, awards are another designation you should look for in choosing high-quality subcontractors for your job.

If you are looking for a company to provide all you concrete needs: cutting, drilling, breaking, patching, and excavation, combined with ground-penetrating radar, contact Cobra Concrete Cutting Services Co . We offer all the services you need, combined with born-in-the-USA work ethics and delivery. You want your job done right, and so do we.

Champaign Diamond Core Drilling

Tue, 30 Aug 2016 15:51:00 GMT

Professional services are readily available for you with Champaign core drilling. By extending to this new area, we seek to provide our award-winning services to a wider range of those looking for experts in our particular field.

With our outstanding line up of experience and proficiency, you won’t be intimidated by taking on your project alone or unskilled.

Diamond Core Drilling Techniques

Core drilling holes can be made as small as 1/2″ to 60″ in diameter and to any depth in concrete slabs, precast concrete, asphalt, brick, cinder block and tile walls. We drill holes the exact size in order to meet your demands. Drilling is also done at any angle and even upside down through a ceiling when there is no accessible means of entry.

Diamond core drilling techniques can be used for:

Plumbing
Electrical
HVAC
Telecommunication Lines
Anchor Bolts
Concrete Sample Analysis

Core drilling machines usually run on electric power sources but for large diameter holes, hydraulic is ready for use as well. We work to ensure satisfaction by providing both options without hesitation.

An added perk to using a core drill is how they operate without excessive noise, dust or pollution. Projects done indoors become easier with the advantages provided from using our diamond core drilling technique.

Why You Should Choose Cobra

At Cobra Concrete Cutting Services, our supremely trained employees accomplish tasks under acute safety precautions. Rest assured that our team completes projects with scrutiny to each individual job. Along with our unmatched excellence in safety, our company provides staff who can be reached 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Our company has been honored with a number of awards including the ASA Subcontractor of the Year Award in 2014. We rank at #42 in the fastest growing construction companies in the country by INC. Magazine. Cobra is also level 2 certified with the Concrete and Sawing Drilling Association.

Due to our adaptability and large quantity of equipment, Cobra can work for nearly any contractor on a job-site. We pride ourselves with a responsibility to give unprecedented service while cultivating and building relationships within our industry.

At Cobra, we believe in giving back to the community. We ardently donate time, support and services to charitable organizations with our fondest regards. These include Little Angels, The Muscular Dystrophy Association, The Leukemia Research Foundation, JDRF, The American Lung Association and Bountiful Hope Farms. Choosing Cobra to perform on projects not only ensures quality work but also gives back in more ways than one.

Our mission is to revolutionize the concrete sawing and drilling industry through our innovation and attitude, provide a level of service and passion that our customers, our employees and our community desire to experience.

Contact Us About Core Drilling in Champaign

To learn how we can assist, save money and increase safety at your work site as your concrete coring drilling contractor in the Champaign area, contact us at anytime. Please contact us for an estimate, scheduling needs, general information and any questions you have.

Does Your Concrete Contractor Make the Cut

Wed, 24 Aug 2016 18:59:00 GMT

You’re overseeing a huge job, and want to ensure the subcontractors you hire for your project will do the job right, and do it on time.

Delays due to inaccurate or shoddy work are unacceptable, and you know that your Champaign concrete contractor has to have the latest tools and expertise to keep your project moving.

What to Look For in a Concrete Cutting Contractor

There are vast differences in the quality of concrete contractors. One important quality and protective aspect is whether the contractor has the proper equipment for your project. Ground Penetrating Radar (GPS) can pre-determine concrete slab thickness, as well as locations of conduits, pipes, rebar, cables, and soil-bound hazards like propane tanks. Without this equipment, your project runs the risk of time delays and reconstructive work that is not on your promised timeline.

Your contractor may promise a good price, but again, ensure he is using equipment and up-to-date methods that will get the job done without extra headaches and possible delays. For example, some contractors use conventional methods of wall sawing to attempt cutting openings for stairs, windows, HVAC systems, and even elevator shafts. This method can create imprecise openings that cause delays while patchwork is done, and debris as well as noise can preclude other work from being completed nearby. If your contractor uses high-tech wall saws, precise cuts are made, and noise and debris are kept to a minimum. Most importantly, the job is done right.

Are there areas on your job site where fume-free excavation is essential? If you have other work going on nearby, you must assure your clients that the concrete contractor can get the job done without emitting noxious fumes. Check with your contractor to make sure this is the case.

How about OSHA compliance? There are often tight spaces in a demolition area that are unsafe for workers. The best concrete companies will have equipment that ensures employee safety, such as remote-controlled demolition robots.

Employee training and certification is another look-for. The Concrete and Sawing Drilling Association (CSDA) offered trainings and certifications for concrete workers. The company you choose for your project should be closely affiliated with CSDA, and its workers certified to do their jobs. Safety should be paramount.

What Other Abilities Should a Concrete Company Have?

A well-versed concrete company offers much more than concrete pouring and excavation, and understand the correlation of telecommunications, plumbing, electrical, and HVAC needs. Core drilling done for these purposes must be versatile. Does the contractor have the ability, for example, to drill a core through a ceiling upside-down, should space not allow a top drill? Are they using diamond-cut technology, which results in precision cuts, or will patchwork have to be done after the cut is made?

In areas that need simple re-aligning, does the company offer concrete grooving? This cost-effective technology allows you to save both time and money on your project by avoiding expensive excavation of some areas, and adding rumble strips or grooved re-alignment to pre-existing concrete.

How to Find the Best Contractor

If you are looking for a contractor who can meet all of the above specifications and more, contact us . We are Cobra Concrete Cutting Services, and have proudly, efficiently, and safely served the Chicago area for over seventeen years. With our new location in Champaign, we’re ready to help you with your next project.

Robotic Demolition in Champaign

Tue, 16 Aug 2016 13:34:00 GMT

Robotic demolition units are among the most exciting developments in the construction industry

Champaign robotic demolition equips its teams with robots that can cut and demolish concrete, especially in areas of tight quarters and where air impurity control issues can endanger them.

Hand-held demolition can cause significant injury. The dust from demolition can be inhaled or swallowed causing disabling diseases of the blood vessels, nerves or joints. Hand-held heavy demolition tools cause injuries because they depend on large vibrations to cut or break down concrete.

Demolition robots resemble conventional jack hammers or cutters, except that are mounted on two-ton self-propelled track vehicles that are directed to place and anchor themselves on their internal outriggers at the demolition site. Most robots are small enough to fit standard door frames. Their size makes them ideal for work on road crews as well as interior demolition. They are controlled by radio Bluetooth, or cables by operators at a distance up to several hundred feet away. Most robots operate on high-capacity Lithium-Ion batteries so they are completely exhaust free and pose no chemical danger to the crews.

Operating demolition robots requires special training.

These robots operate with telescoping arms that can extend the reach of the cutters or hammers to accurately aim at the key demolition points. They are able to travel up inclines, even climb stairs to be positioned where they need to be. They come equipped with buckets, clam-shell buckets, beam grapples, scabblers, planers, hydraulic drills, cut-off saws, and rock splitters. Cameras can be installed on them. Workers can stand away from the noise, and dust. They do not need to handle heavy intensely vibrating machines. The control systems can resemble the cockpits or control systems of manually operated machines, but the worker hand-holds the controls like the controls of radio controlled models or cars.

The use of robotics in the field of demolition has been increasing.

The machines keep getting better and more powerful as the use of demolition robots matures. The machines are getting more powerful and more compact with every new iteration. The largest demolition robots weigh 11 tons and have a reach of more than 22 feet. These machines can be used in mining and tunneling as well as demolition.

Cobra Concrete Cutting Services has been the leading concrete sawing and drilling company in the Chicago area since for 17 years. The recent expansion into Champaign Robotic Demolition brings the state-of-the-art demolition potential to the central Illinois area of Urbana-Champaign. This expansion gives the company capacity to serve the contractors and developers throughout the state, Western Indiana, and the tri-state area. The company combines its technology in underground and concrete scan imaging with the use of advanced robotics to reduce the risk of injury. For top-notch demolition services, please contact us to discuss your project.

Champaign Wire Sawing – Additional Location, Same Great Service

Fri, 05 Aug 2016 22:04:00 GMT

Wire sawing is a safe option to use when you need to cut great amounts of concrete.

With decreased noise and absolutely no limit to the amount or depth of the material that needs to be cut, Cobra Concrete Services has always provided the most effective resources for sawing in the most convenient way possible. Our services have always guaranteed that we will get the job done with no damage to any of your surrounding structures. What better promise could you receive?

Our services are expanding to new areas

Our company is launching in a new location! We are now introducing services in Champaign, Illinois. Champaign Wire Sawing brings with its debut all of the same trustworthy and reliable services that our previous established locations have provided. With the same mission and goals in mind, this big step in Cobra Concrete Cutting will have an immense effect on the community around it, and for the organization as a whole. This advancement will allow us to expand our services to more people who need it.

Located at 311 S. Staley Road, Unit D, our Champaign center is conveniently located south of Chicago in the Metro Chicago area and west of Indianapolis, Indiana. This makes our 15th location in Illinois, and our 17th location total.

With this move, we are bringing in additional skilled workers who share the same expertise and professionalism that our company and workers have been providing for seventeen years.

Champaign in particular will also focus strongly on the following aspects:

Safety

We value safety first, above all else. All technology and equipment is current, in an effort to reduce injuries that could also result in lost time. Our professionals use highly specialized antennas to detect hazards on the scene, such as hidden pipes.

Time

Time management is important. Using specialized equipment allows us to maintain a specific schedule so your needs are met when you need them without any delay. Utilizing professional staff means that less supervision is needed, which in turn results in more time used to get the job done.

Money

Saving money is important, too. We can help you with that. Getting the right equipment can be expensive, but Cobra Cutting Services has a clean record of getting the best equipment with no additional costs to you. Since all staff are already trained professionals, no excess money is needed to spend on training or paid classes for our employees that will be serving you.

We have on call professionals.

We have staff who can be reached 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Other than wire sawing, here are some other services offered at the Champaign location:

Concrete scanning
Location underground utilities
Bridge deck inspections
Core drilling
Slab sawing
Wall sawing
Interior grinding
Robotic demolition
Fume free electrical excavation
Concrete patching

If you’re interested in seeing more of what we have to offer in all of our locations, contact us today!

Champaign Slab Sawing

Wed, 03 Aug 2016 14:15:00 GMT

Cobra Concrete, in our Champaign location, is ready to provide professional slab sawing services in the Champaign-Urbana area.

Our newly opened Champaign office is convenient and accessible, backed up by the quality and precision for which Cobra Concrete Cutting is known.

What is slab sawing?

A slab saw is a large machine with a spindle mounted blade. An operator walks behind the machine guiding the saw to cut concrete slabs on grades, or pre-formed concrete slabs. The slab saw is used on asphalt, as well. Slab saws are designed to cut trenches for pipes and for removing larger sections of concrete. These saws come in electric or diesel versions. We have both diesel and electric so that you can choose the one that best fits your needs. The saws cut to a depth of up to 32 inches. It is important when cutting into concrete to be aware of present hazards such as electrical wiring, water lines or other structures within the concrete. Our state-of-the-art ground-penetrating radar detects these dangers, before cutting, assuring the safety of all workers.

Why should I sub-contract with Cobra Concrete at Champaign?

For more than 15 years Cobra Concrete has served the Chicago area. Cobra has garnered numerous awards including the ASA Subcontractor of the Year Award for 2014. Cobra is ranked #28 in the fastest growing construction companies the tri-state area category by INC. Magazine, and #42 in the fastest growing construction companies in the country category.

Giving back to the community is important to us. We support numerous community activities and projects including Bountiful Hope Farms, which helps to feed those in need. The Muscular Dystrophy Association is another organization we support. For more information about our charitable giving browse here.

What about cost?

Because you avoid costly mistakes, operator training costs, and expensive equipment investments when you contract with Cobra Concrete’s Champaign location, you save both time and money. All Cobra field personnel and managers complete and maintain the OSHA 30-hour Construction Safety and Health training. Health and Safety consciousness results in fewer accidents and injuries on the job. Worksite injuries can easily become a financial nightmare.

Cobra Concrete Cutting at Champaign serves different industries and trade professions. Contact us today for information about concrete sub-contracting. We offer 24-hour emergency and scheduling services for our customers.

Introducing Champaign Concrete Cutting Services

Fri, 29 Jul 2016 21:20:00 GMT

Cobra Concrete Cutting adds a new location to the metro Chicago area with the opening of the Champaign location.

The Champaign site provides a more local option for contractors in the Champaign-Urbana area, as well as increasing our ability, with additional skilled workers and state of the art equipment, to provide professional and knowledgeable concrete cutting services for your work site. Here are a few reasons why adding a professional concrete cutter to your team is essential to attaining desired outcomes such as timeline adherence and quality of construction delivered.

Safety First

Current technology and equipment, handled by skilled concrete workers, prevents time lost due to injuries that result when inexperienced concrete workers use equipment for the first time.
Hidden pipes, electrical conduits, and other hazards may lurk beneath the concrete slab you are clearing. These can causeinjury to equipment operators, and other workers or passersby, and equipment, when hit. Using highly specialized antennas our professionals can scan concrete, up to 18″ thick, for hazards and obstructions.

Time Management

Skilled concrete workers, using highly specialized equipment assures adherence to strict timelines saving your money and your reputation. The incidence of cutting the wrong location, hitting essential pipes, or breaking equipment, all of which push back your timelines creating delays, is avoided. Our scanning division uses equipment manufactured by the Geophysical Survey Systems, Inc. (GSI)
Crew Leaders expend less of their time and energy having to instruct and supervise workers when professional concrete workers handle these tasks. Freeing up your leaders to concentrate on moving ahead, instead of spending valuable time instructing unskilled crew members, helps maintain your timeline for construction.

Money Savings

Contracting with Cobra Concrete, you gain well-trained skilled workers, allowing you to concentrate your efforts on other critical areas without having to provide expensive training and paid class-time, helps your bottom line.
Specialized concrete cutting equipment is expensive. Contracting with Cobra gets you the equipment you need, at no additional costs.

Services We Offer

Concrete Scanning
Locating Underground Utilities
Bridge Deck Inspections
Core Drilling
Slab Sawing
Wire Sawing
Wall sawing
Interior Grinding
Robotic Demolition
Fume Free Electrical Excavation
Concrete Patching
and M ore

Immediate Access to Professional Help

If something unexpected does happen, you have professionals on call. Cobra’s emergency services can be reached 24 hours a day and are here to help anytime.

Contact us to learn more about the services we offer and ways we can help. We invite you to contract with us for all of your concrete needs.

Reasons for Hiring a Professional Concrete Drilling Company

Thu, 21 Jul 2016 20:23:00 GMT

Oftentimes thousands of holes are drilled in the process of a major construction project. Drilling in concrete allows unobstructed access for drains, electrical wiring, telecommunication wires, and anchor bolts.

Drilling in concrete has many functions and is better left in the hands of a trusted and competent professional.

What is concrete drilling?

Concrete or core drilling, as it is also known, is the process of drilling exact holes in concrete floors, walls, asphalt, cinder-block, and soil. Drilling in concrete is high in demand because it offers solutions for many construction problems. Before we drill a hole we need to know the aggregate composition of the concrete and whether or not rebar or post tension cables are present. At Cobra Concrete Cutting Services we use Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR) to determine what obstructions if any could be encountered. Some concrete is harder than others which makes it more difficult to drill through. Concrete that contains limestone, slag, and coral are somewhat soft and easier to drill. Concrete mixed with river gravel or quartz is of medium difficulty to drill. Flint or granite aggregate is among the most difficult to drill because of its hardness. Cobra Concrete professionals use diamond tipped core drills as small as 1/2″ up to 60″ in diameter.

Reasons for hiring a skilled and professional concrete drilling company

Instead of placing your drilling projects in the hands of those with limited experience, let Cobra Cutting Services assist you with your concrete cutting and drilling needs. With no job too big or too small, Cobra Cutting Services is leading the way in ground-breaking methods of concrete drilling and sawing.

For more information about who we are and what we can do for your drilling and cutting needs, contact us today. We look forward to working with you!

Champaign Ground Penetrating Radar — In The Summer Time

Mon, 18 Jul 2016 16:39:00 GMT

Champaign-Area Contractors! It’s summer time. The sun is out, and the UI students are out also. Consequently, there is much work to be done on the less-crowded, UI campus. Since very few are studying on campus, this is the perfect opportunity to drill through or cut into concrete.

Remember (especially when you are working on those high-rises) to scan the concrete in order to find all possible obstructions before drilling. The two most common methods of concrete scanning are GPR and X-ray. They are often referred to as the same method since they serve the same end. But their means and their results are vastly different. Here are four reasons why you should use Ground Penetrating Radar instead of X-ray.

Should you desire to talk further about how we can meet your concrete construction needs, don’t hesitate to contact us . We are the premier Champaign Ground Penetrating Radar providers.

Advanced Concrete Cutting—When A Saw By Itself Just Won’t Cut It

Mon, 11 Jul 2016 16:38:00 GMT

“Should I rent the saw and cut the slab myself? That would save time and money…How hard can it be?”

A few contractors have fared well with DIY concrete saw-cutting, usually because the slab they cut had absolutely no obstructions in it. Or they could have been lucky. But for those who are not sure what lies beneath the surface, the job will require more than beginner’s luck. It will require a plan. Consider these three questions before assuming your slab is clear.

Are there power cables in the slab? Power lines are not always clearly found. and, at times, their depths may vary. Sawing through a power line holds the potential for injury, lost time, and costly repairs.

Does the slab contain post-tension cable ? If so, this must be located first. Post-tensioning is:

…a form of prestressing. Prestressing simply means that the steel is stressed (pulled or tensioned) before the concrete has to support the service loads. Most precast, prestressed concrete is actually pre-tensioned-the steel is pulled before the concrete is poured.

Contractors produce this stress on the cables by intertwining them and winding them to fit the desired shape before they pour the concrete (picture a rubberband being wound at both ends in opposite directions). Should a saw or a drill bit touch one of those cables, all of the tension will be released. The slab and anything near it will be the unfortunate recipient of the unwinding .

Does anyone have as-builts or photos of the site before the concrete was poured? PT cable and power lines may not be the only obstructions in the slab. Sewer vents, water lines, and other various items have been known to find their way into a concrete slab pour. The only way to ensure a proper cut is with requisite research and planning.

There is a tool which can help contractors if they are unsure of one or all three questions above: Ground Penetrating Radar. GPR uses the same principle as Sonar or X-Ray. It emits an electro-magnetic impulse into the concrete and that impulse bounces off material that is denser than the concrete around it. This “echo” bounce returns to the antenna, which images the finding on a computer screen. The obstruction’s location is then recorded on the concrete with marker or paint. The markings are literally right above the findings!

Though GPR operates under the same principle as the other methods, its output far outweighs them. GPR’s accuracy is unrivaled. All findings are within a quarter-inch to the left or the right of their surface markings. Similarly, they are within a half-inch on depth. Also, the GPR technician produces these markings in real-time. They are not post-processed in a lab onto film, driven back to the job site, and then recorded.

Should you desire this additional help with advanced concrete cutting , Look for the firm with the concrete cutting equipment, experience, and GPR: Cobra Concrete Cutting. Contact us today to see how we can save you time and money by utilizing GPR.

We Have Added A New Location in Champaign IL

Wed, 06 Jul 2016 21:05:00 GMT

We are excited to announce our new location in Champaign Illinois!

Located at 311 S. Staley Rd. Unit D, Champaign, IL 61822-9271
Tel: (217)-607-5013, Fax: (217)-607-5014

This will allow us to serve a broader customer base with the same expertise and professionalism as always.

Areas we now serve:

Illinois

Bloomington-Normal
Carbondale
Champaign-Urbana
Danville
Decatur
Effingham
Galesburg
Jacksonville
Kankakee-Bradley
Charleston-Matoon
Mount Vernon
Ottawa-Peru
Quincy
Peoria

Indiana
Lafayette
Terre Haute

Post-Tension Concrete: a Technique for Concrete Reinforcement

Wed, 06 Jul 2016 13:43:00 GMT

In the constantly changing real estate industry, properties have to be properly maintained and periodically remodeled to keep up with the latest trends.

This is especially true for urban real estate; town homes, condominiums, high rises, and skyscrapers are constantly tended to and updated to suit changing tastes. To that end, contractors are sorely needed who know how to handle the materials these buildings are constructed with.

One such material is post-tension concrete , a special type of concrete slab that should only be handled by experienced contractors. This material requires careful handling and the use of specialized equipment in order to retain structural integrity and avoid collapses and injuries to you and your team.

If your next contract involves post-tension concrete slabs, there are a few things that you should know:

What is Post-Tension Concrete?

ConcreteNetwork.com defines post-tension concrete as a type of concrete slab where steel cables are stretched from one end of the slab to the other and stretched, increasing the load capacity of the slab, reducing shrinkage, and increasing the possible length of the slab without increasing thickness. It also reduces the occurence of cracks, and keeps cracks held tightly together to preserve structural integrity. It is an extremely useful building technique often used in urban construction.

Applications

Post-tension concrete reinforcement can be used for:

Slabs on ground where soil is likely to move. Most often this is seen in housing projects and even tennis-courts to produce crack-free surfaces.
External upgrades to strengthen existing structures against earthquakes.
Bridges, primarily to allow for longer spans of concrete and to keep cracks tight.

Handling Post-Tension Concrete

In the event that a slab of post-tension concrete needs to be drilled, cored, or cut, it must be handled with extreme caution by an experienced professional. Because of the plastic coating surrounding the cables within the concrete, the cables themselves do not bond to the concrete, meaning that if the cable is damaged or cut, it loses effectiveness over the entire length of the slab. This compromises the stability of the slab, and could be disastrous for the structural integrity of the building as a whole. Work can only be safely performed after using x-ray or GPR equipment to verify the location of the cable within the concrete. Even then, any cutting or drilling must be done with extreme care and caution in order to avoid the marked cables while still making the necessary adjustments to the slab.

Find the Right Person for the Job

Cobra Concrete Cutting Services Co. is the leading concrete sawing and drilling company in the Chicago area, and is superiorly equipped to handle any post tension slab drilling, sawing, or cutting to suit your needs. When it comes to post-tension concrete, leave it to the professionals. Hiring ill-equipped teams or taking on a project without proper training, experience, and equipment increases the risk of structural collapse and team-member injury.

Don’t waste time and risk injury with a less qualified team. Contact us to get the best people for your concrete drilling and cutting needs.

Three Questions About GPR Answered

Thu, 23 Jun 2016 20:37:00 GMT

You are contracted to do extensive renovation work on an existing concrete structure. It’s a skyscraper and you are doing work on a few floors. The work requires installing some plumbing, maybe changes to electric or new ventilation shafts.

Unfortunately, the floors have a lot of structural elements hidden in the concrete, including post tension cable. Cutting that cable is dangerous to both the building and the operator doing the cutting. Drawings don’t show the cable’s location, so how will you safely do the necessary drilling or cutting?

The answer is that you need to find a concrete contractor who can perform concrete scanning with ground penetrating radar (GPR). GPR can be used for nondestructive testing of buildings or pavement, for locating buried utility lines and other structures within or through concrete. It can mean the difference between a successful renovation or rebuild and a disastrous one that takes extra time and money and compromises the safety of the structure or those working on the project.

How Does It Work?

GPR uses high-frequency radio waves to send electromagnetic energy into the ground or other surface. When it encounters an object those waves may reflect, refract, or be scattered back to the surface. Higher frequency waves do not penetrate as far as lower frequency waves, but they provide better resolution. So there is always some trade-off between resolution and depth of penetration, and this is just one area in which GPR requires an experienced user to understand how best to use this tool in any specific project. For example, if you’re looking for buried pipes or unseen objects like storage tanks, you need to use relatively low frequencies in order to allow the radar to penetrate deeply enough to find these items.

What Does It Show?

Have you ever seen a medical x-ray? If so, you can probably identify certain structures such as lungs, bones, probably the heart. But you can’t read the x-ray as a doctor can, because the things they are looking for are often subtle and not easily interpreted. There is an art to accurately reading them. Although GPR is not an x-ray, it is similar in that interpreting its data is not intuitive and requires both training and experience. In order to get the best results from any GPR survey it’s important that you talk to your contractor and make sure they have all the information they need about your project and the kind of information you’re looking for.

Who Provides It?

Chicago’s Cobra Concrete Cutting Services has been providing the industry with GPR services for many years, and we recognize the influence this technology has had on construction and renovation over the past 15 years. It’s largely because of this technology that renovation has become a larger part of the commercial concrete industry. GPR allows safe cutting of existing concrete structures as well as ensuring safety for digging, electrical, and utility crews.

We believe that the time spent assessing, scanning, and analyzing your project with GPR more than pays off in terms of preventing injury along with saving time and money. Contact us to arrange for a GPR survey of your next project.

Diamond Concrete Cutting

Fri, 17 Jun 2016 22:06:00 GMT

We are Cobra Concrete Cutting Services. We are a specialty firm that provides innumerable types of cutting, sawing, and excavation services to general contractors and commercial construction companies.

We have been in business since 1999 and in that time have provided cutting, drilling, and excavation for over 100 commercial firms in the greater Chicago area. Such places as Soldier Field and Wrigley Field, DePaul University and Northwestern University, Costco and Sams Club, Adler Planetarium and the Lincoln Park Zoo – to name a few.

In this post we would like to discuss the advantages of diamond concrete cutting and why we are the company in Chicago that contractors choose above all others.

What materials will a diamond drill bit cut through?

Since a diamond is nearly the hardest material known, there is almost nothing that it won’t cut into. Bore holes through various grades of concrete, hardwood, asphalt, tile, brick, and cinder-block. The main focus of this article will be concrete.

Why use a diamond drill bit?

A diamond core drill bit is hollow. This enables a greater efficiency in drilling than a regular drill bit as it is removing less material. A diamond drill bit is designed to manage many applications. The most common cores we drill are for plumbing, electrical wiring, HVAC systems, telecommunication lines, anchor bolts, and for an analysis various types of concrete.

What we want contractors know:

Core drilling is difficult when the operator does not know what they are doing. Cobra trained personnel are highly trained with an emphasis on safety. We require our new hires obtain certification with the OSHA-30 hour construction safety and health program prior to actual field work.

The actual process

Disclaimer: the information we are providing in this post is to provide confidence and sound advice when the time comes for reaching out to Cobra Cutting. This post in no way presupposes that you are considering this operation yourself. We do not recommend it and we are not attempting to teach anyone how to use a diamond core drill bit for coring out concrete.

Cobra Concrete Cutting field personnel know that some of the items they will need for the coring application are a core drill, diamond core bit, water hose, anchor, electric cords, wrenches, and appropriate PPE (personal protection equipment). Our employees will obtain training and knowledge to use the equipment in a safe manner.

At least four components entail a successful diamond concrete cutting application. No one component is more important than the other as they are all integrated to ensure a successful outcome.

Water – The correct amount of water is essential. An over-abundant amount of water and the concrete dust particles wash away, and nothing remains to keep the diamonds on the drill bit exposed. Not enough water and there is nothing to create the slurry by mixing with the dust and debris. When using the correct amount of water, the goal is to produce a slurry that keeps the core cool and the diamonds on the bit exposed as they come in contact with the particles in the slurry.
Anchor – In order to produce a core that is straight, anchor the drill rig by using a physical anchor rated for core drilling.
Speed – Proper grinding occurs with the motor set to the correct RPM’s. Diamond cutters perform optimal cutting at a predetermined surface speed. Standardized ratings consist throughout the industry. The smaller the bit the faster the speed. Therefore, many electrical drills come equipped with multiple speeds giving the operator the leverage to use different sized bits.
Power – In order to maintain the correct drilling speed, the operator needs the necessary amount of power to do the job. We recommend an amp meter in conjunction with electrical drills in order that operators can seek to push the drill to a maximum rated amperage but without exceeding it. Too much amperage and the drill will bog down, slowing down productivity and eventually burning out the inner components of the core drill.

By adhering to these four components, operators will be able to core holes with maximum efficiency, thereby increasing productivity.

From a tiny core of 1/2 inch all the way to 60 inches in diameter, Cobra Cutting is the choice above all others. Contact Cobra Concrete Cutting Services today for all your concrete cutting jobs. We look forward to hearing from you.

Reasons to Hire a Professional Core Drilling Company

Mon, 06 Jun 2016 16:40:00 GMT

Whether you are working on a remodeling project or new construction, there’s a good chance you will need to get through a slab of concrete to install utility or plumbing lines or for some other purpose.

The temptation could be to rent the equipment and turn the job over to one of your trusted employees, but the safer bet would be to call on the services of concrete coring company drilling contractors .

1. Precise cutting

Concrete core drilling is a precise way of creating holes through concrete, from 1/2″ to 60″ in diameter, for a number of applications, including but not limited to:

Plumbing, including installation of water or gas lines plus sewage and draining needs
Electrical
HVAC
Telecommunications lines
Anchor bolts
Concrete sample analysis

Diamond core drilling equipment is designed to be used on various construction materials, including concrete, precast concrete, asphalt, brick, cinder block and tile. Drilling also can be done down, sideways or even up.

2. Save Time and money

Concrete drilling can save time and money over having to break out sections of concrete to create space for installation of plumbing or sewer lines, electrical conduits, etc.

Concrete coring company drilling contractors have the specialty equipment available to meet whatever your drilling needs, whether it be larger spaces for HVAC ductwork or smaller holes for telecommunications lines. By drilling holes to the exact size to meet your needs, you save money and time over patching, as well.

3. Safety for everyone involved

But the biggest advantage of hiring a core drilling contractor is the safety the company can provide. A contractors’ employees will have hours of training on each piece of equipment plus years of experience dealing with various grades of concrete and other construction materials. Maybe you already know what lies under or inside the concrete you need to drill through, but if previous electrical conduit or gas lines were laid into the concrete, you do not want your workers to uncover this surprise while drilling. Qualified concrete coring company drilling contractors will have access to ground penetrating radar so that before drilling begins, they can ensure the area is safe or can be made safe by locating and disconnecting live wire or gas lines.

Accurate measuring and drilling of holes also saves time and money over having to re-drill and patch mistakes.

4. Experience makes all the difference

Experienced core drilling workers also will be aware of various construction materials and will adapt their drill bits and equipment to match. They will be able to detect changes in material as they are drilling and adapt quickly so the drilling does not cause damage or harm structural integrity.

Since 1999, Cobra Concrete Cutting Services Co. has emerged as the premier concrete drilling and cutting service in the Chicago-land area. All of the company’s management and field employees are required to obtain the OSHA30-Hour Construction Safety and Health Card. They also continuously update training and participate in monthly safety meetings with management. Their safety concerns are for themselves as well as your employees on the job site. Contact us today to learn how we can assist, save money and increase safety at your work site as your concrete coring company drilling contractor.

Champaign Saw Cutting Professionals Now Available

Mon, 30 May 2016 15:42:00 GMT

Cobra Concrete Cutting has earned an outstanding reputation in Chicago, IL as a leader in its field. Now Cobra is available for Champaign saw cutting services.

Dedicated to providing excellent service with a positive attitude, the Cobra professionals are ready to serve you. They have all the right tools and are trained to work safely and effectively. They are also experienced at working with a variety of different contractors and know what to expect.

They strive to set new standards in the industry and it shows in the quality of their work. Cobra offers many helpful services and takes pride in what they accomplish. They are trained and experienced with five different types of sawing. They are experts in: slab sawing, wall sawing, wire sawing, hand-held sawing and hydraulic chain sawing.

Types of Sawing

Slab sawing utilizes a machine that the operator walks behind with a mounted blade, often used to cut out large areas of concrete. It can also be used to cut out trenches. Cobra Concrete Cutting has a range of slab saws available with differences in horsepower and fuel. Some run on diesel gas, and others can run on electric power. Their slab saws can cut a maximum depth of 32″ inches.

Wall Sawing

Wall sawing is performed with a saw that’s mounted on a track. It is useful when precise cuts need to be made in floors and walls. It is also used to cut beams, footings and roofs. They can cut a maximum depth of 36″ inches, and are versatile as well as precise. Wall saws can be set at any angle and can cut evenly with surfaces that are adjacent to it.

Wire Sawing

Wire sawing makes use of a diamond wire. It is a very efficient tool for separating sizeable structures that are made of concrete, such as bridges and foundations. It is also considered a safer option when large amounts of concrete need to be taken out because it is less likely to cause damage to any other nearby structures.

Hydraulic Chain Sawing

Hydraulic chain sawing is often used with wall sawing. Overcast can be avoided by using a chainsaw, which keeps the rest of the area in good condition. In some cases it is less expensive to use a hydraulic chainsaw when cutting openings in floors and walls.

Hand Held Sawing

Hand held sawing is used for smaller jobs. They can be used to make openings for HVAC from bricks or cinder blocks. They can also be used to make other small openings in walls or slabs.

Power sawing can be dangerous for the operator and for others in the area. Cobra Concrete Cutting places safety first. Their employees have not only been trained to run the equipment, they have also received a 30-hour construction safety and health card from OSHA. That is in addition to monthly and annual safety meetings as well as orientations.

The Cobra Concrete Cutting crew uses ground penetrating radar technology to find out what concerns can lurk unseen. The Ground Penetrating Radar has no limits in regard to the size of the area that’s scanned, and can quickly scan large areas.

More information is available, if you have any questions, contact us .

What you Must Know about Concrete Core Drilling

Fri, 27 May 2016 17:01:00 GMT

Cobra Concrete Cutting Services Company is a privately owned, full service concrete cutting and drilling contractor serving the Chicago area for 15 years. We are dedicated to, not only meeting or exceeding, but to setting the standard in this industry.

Our services include concrete sawing and drilling, breaking, patching and excavation, and ground penetrating radar technology.

We employ only the most highly trained and experienced personnel with safety being a priority.

At Cobra, no job is too large and no job is too small. We work within every aspect of construction projects from general contractors to home owners.

What is concrete drilling?

Concrete drilling is a technique used by professionals to make a precise circular cut into existing concrete, brick, asphalt, tile, or cinder block. While there is certainly still a necessity for backhoes and jack hammers in some construction projects, consider the ease and effectiveness of drilling a hole to technologically precise dimensions instead.

Why concrete drilling?

Concrete drilling is a time and cost-effective method for making passage in existing surfaces to house plumbing, HVAC, electrical, and telecommunication lines as well as anchoring devices. Drilling for a specific application instead of removing whole sections of a surface reduces the time and expense involved in removing debris, replacing surface, and limited or no use of the area while under construction.

Why core drilling?

A core drill removes a precisely measured cylinder of material. Instead of the mess created and repairs involved by breaking the surface, a core drill neatly removes an exact portion of material to enable the application of lines or wires.

Using state of the art diamond core drills, a sharp, precise hole can be achieved in nearly any surface at diameters ranging from 1/2″ to 60″. The applications are virtually limitless. Holes can be drilled precisely according to any specifications into slabs, walls, and ceilings, straight or at angles.

Core drilling is faster and more exacting than other methods. Holes can be drilled to any depth and in limited and confined spaces. Using core drilling greatly reduces the time involved in set up, completing the job, and cleanup, as well as the necessity to employ multiple pieces of heavy equipment.

Core drilling is cleaner. Using either electric or hydraulic power, core drills have the ability to operate without excess noise, fumes or exhaust, dust or debris. This gives core drilling an overwhelming advantage for indoor projects including factories, offices, and homes.

As you can see, concrete core drilling is an extremely practical and viable solution for your construction needs.

At Cobra, we offer a full range of concrete cutting services, state of the art technology, highly qualified employees, a ‘safety first’ mindset, and unequalled customer service. We are committed to seeing your project through from beginning to end. We are located in Chicagoland and service the tri-state area, but offer nationwide service depending on the scope of your project. We are committed to innovation, our customers, and our community. Contact us for all of your concrete cutting and drilling needs.

Tips for selecting the right Concrete Drilling company

Fri, 27 May 2016 16:56:00 GMT

Choosing the right subcontractors for your project can be a difficult process, especially where there’s concrete involved. Concrete constitutes an important structural element in any building, so when you need to penetrate it, maintaining the integrity of the job involves several considerations.

But simply searching for a local core-driller doesn’t mitigate the stress of these considerations. Searching on Google for concrete drilling companies turns out a page of twenty contractors in Chicago alone. So when you try to find the right contractor, what considerations should you keep in mind?

Tip #1: a great safety record

A background of consistent safety measures and a low index of recorded injuries means that the contractor values his employees as much as he values his product. In projects with heavy oversight, owners and engineers may ask for a contractor’s safety record and ratings to ensure that everyone on the job can leave every evening in the same condition that they arrived in. Concrete drilling companies may not list their safety ratings on their website, but a good contractor will list any safety certifications and awards. These prove that they value the health of all job site personnel and practice best management techniques in implementing safety measures.

Look for somebody that wants you to know that they can complete your project while keeping everyone’s well-being in mind.

Tip #2: The Right Technology

Concrete drilling involves a specific kind of technology because it is a very specific kind of job. When penetrating a rated wall, a builder wants to make sure a core-drill is only big enough to allow exactly what he needs to run through it. He knows he’ll have to patch it up after it’s finished in order to maintain the rating. Drilling in such a way as to allow for the least impact on the wall’s strength requires a process which uses diamond core drills — core drills manufactured specifically for cutting concrete with precision without wearing down. A good core drill is minimally invasive and easy to clean. Compare this with what you have at the end of several hours with even the best hammer drill: a mess.

A core drill can be dangerous if a structure or a public space already has utilities or pipes running through it. In addition to interrupting these utilities, an ignorant driller can also put himself and others in a fatal position. Hitting a live circuit can electrocute the driller. Your concrete-cutting contractor should suggest or offer radar scanning services.

With this additional technology, the contractor can confirm that he is not going to damage anything that old as-built drawings or utility location estimates don’t necessarily know about. Using radar technology to establish a clear path for drilling can prevent severe injury and expensive repairs for reestablishing circuit or plumbing continuity. This should be an essential part of planning for avoiding those costs that stack up on the back-end of the job and ultimately earn a bad rating for a builder.

Tip #3: REputation for quality and Safety

When wanting to sign that vital contract for core-drilling, finding a contractor with accolades for quality and safety is required. Whether this core-drill is a tiny change-order or a huge part of developing the construction plan, you should use the best drilling contractor available to deliver an exceptional job. Cobra is a concrete-cutting company with the experience you deserve. No matter the size of your job, you should contact us to see how we can help you achieve a fine-tuned, finished building project.

Concrete Cutting Companies: It’s a Grind

Fri, 20 May 2016 16:37:00 GMT

Concrete is a commonly used construction material because of its cost effectiveness, long lifespan, and adaptability to virtually any environment. However, working with concrete is often challenging for building designers and engineers.

Creating access to ventilation ducts, elevator shafts, and stairwells or places to hide plumbing or electrical wiring requires cutting or drilling of concrete. Concrete cutting companies like Cobra are experts in this type of work that is crucial to the successful construction, modification, or rehabilitation of any concrete building.

When sawing ‘soft’ materials such as wood, a toothed blade chips at the material and cuts right through it. Concrete sawing is different in that it grinds the concrete away to the specified width and depth. Grinding is a two-way street: not only does the saw grind the concrete away, but the concrete also grinds the saw blade away. The solution to this problem is to use a diamond saw blade. Diamond blades have diamonds laser welded to the blade in segments. The blades wear down much more slowly, and though they do need to be replaced eventually, they make a thinner cut, which means there is less concrete to remove. This results in faster cutting.

Slab sawing and wall sawing are two techniques that are frequently used in concrete construction and modification projects. Slab sawing is most often used to install pipes below grade or to remove large areas of slab to allow new concrete surfaces to be created. The rougher edge of the removed concrete helps to bind a new slab to the old one.

Wall sawing uses a saw mounted on a spindle that follows a track. The track is mounted on a wall, ceiling, or any surface at any angle. This type of concrete cutting is used when cuts of more precise dimensions, such as for doors, windows, access panels or HVAC systems are made.

Concrete cutting really is an important part of the process in any project that involves concrete buildings or other structures. All of the services a concrete cutter like Cobra supplies are about removing concrete through a grinding and removal process. This includes sawing, drilling, breakup, and demolition. All of these are processes that subtract concrete. Just as sculpture removes extraneous stone or other material to create a specific form, concrete cutting does the same for specific utilitarian purposes.

Concrete is here to stay. In fact, it has a service life of about 100 years. It has significant advantages for a variety of projects: durability, economy, better energy usage across building life, and it is a safe and sustainable material. The advances seen since Cobra came on the scene have made concrete cutting more efficient than ever, a fact that increases its usefulness as a building material.

We’ve recently worked on projects as varied as Wrigley Field, a variety of Jewel/Osco, Mariano’s, and Costco locations, the Jardine Water Purification Plant, CTA Red and Blue Lines, and Alexian Brothers Medical Center. We can help steer your project to success as well. Please contact us .

Finding a Chicago Concrete Contractor With the Right Equipment, Experience, and Attitude

Fri, 13 May 2016 18:15:00 GMT

When you need a Chicago concrete contractor to handle projects involving sawing and drilling of concrete, breaking, excavation, patching, or projects that require the use of Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR), you need to look at a number of factors.

It’s important to bring the right equipment, the right experience, and the right attitude to every project you work on. Cobra Concrete Cutting Services does all three.

As Chicago’s leading concrete and drilling subcontractor, Cobra will bring the right equipment for the job. Whether it’s wall sawing, the use of various grinders and groovers, remote control demolition robots, or GPR, Cobra can handle it. Fancier or newer equipment isn’t always what’s needed to get the job done, but it’s important for contractors and subcontractors to be aware of the latest innovations and techniques. If your project could benefit from relatively new technology that’s available, wouldn’t you want to know about it? That’s one element that separates a leader from a merely good contractor.

Having the latest equipment doesn’t help if operators don’t understand how to use it to best advantage. Ongoing training is necessary to help all workers stay apprised of the best ways to use specific equipment. Selecting cutting blades and diamond core drill bits is a combination of knowing the attributes of the various equipment, having experience in similar situations, and analyzing the conditions at the work site. Our ongoing training includes hands on training and online courses, and covers developments in the industry as well as equipment-specific training. We also use outside consultants and manufacturers for equipment training.

Another area where ongoing training and monitoring is extremely important is workplace safety. Cobra has an outstanding safety record which we maintain with an intensive safety program. All of our current field personnel and management , as well as new hires, are certified with a OSHA 30-Hour Construction Safety and Health Card. There are monthly safety team meetings conducted with Cobra management, training on job hazard analysis, and site safety inspections conducted by Cobra management as well as outside consultants. Our emphasis on safety has earned us the Annual Safety Award from American Sub-Contractors and Affiliates.

The final piece in the puzzle when it comes to selecting a concrete contractor that goes above and beyond is their overall attitude and enthusiasm for the job as well as the community. Our awards and certifications speak for themselves in terms of our commitment to provide the highest level of service and passion. When people care and are enthusiastic about the work they do, it makes even the most challenging projects proceed more smoothly.

Another aspect of our passion is giving back to the community and taking actions that benefit all of us. We have been able to use our success in the concrete business to donate our time, support, and services to organizations that include Little Angels, The Muscular Dystrophy Association, The Leukemia Research Foundation, Bountiful Health Farms, JDRF, and the American Lung Association. Some people might not think that matters when selecting a concrete contractor, but it’s one more thing that helps set us apart.

Contact Cobra Concrete Cutting Services to find out the ways we can bring our cutting edge equipment, excellent training and safety, and enthusiasm for the work we do to your project.

Chicago Concrete Wall Sawing: Cobra Has the Expertise

Fri, 06 May 2016 23:38:00 GMT

During a construction or rehab project there are many instances where a precise opening in a concrete wall is required. Common examples include doors, windows, HVAC vents, access for wiring, and openings for elevators or stairways.

The best cutting method for these needs is concrete wall sawing. Cobra Concrete Cutting stands ready to tackle Chicago’s concrete wall sawing projects with the expertise that comes from a track record of success.

The wall saw, sometimes also called a track saw, consists of a circular blade mounted on a track attached to a vertical wall, incline, or other surface that will not allow use of a flat saw, such as a slab saw. The track allows the saw to climb walls or make cuts in ceilings. The wall saw is used to cut an opening to specified dimensions, and it is capable of making straight or beveled cuts.

The wall saw blade is circular, with a steel core and diamond sections at the outer edge. The blade is attached to a spindle and guided by a saw track. The track is bolted to the wall or other cutting surface for accuracy and safety. These blades are from 18″ to 72″ in diameter and are capable of cutting to a depth of 32″. Wall sawing leaves a smooth finish, ready for installation of doors or windows or other needs, and is also excellent at cutting round surfaces like towers or industrial silos.

Wall sawing sounds straightforward, but there are a large number of variables and safety issues to consider when working with this technique. Bolt holes, using drop-in steel anchors, are drilled into the wall, and the wall saw track is carefully installed and examined. The saw blade diameter is carefully chosen to meet both the specifications of the needed cut as well as conditions at the site. The operator must use sufficient water or other coolant to cool the blade and cut down on the amount of dust created to control silica exposure.

Sometimes renovations or modifications to an existing structure require a new opening. Wall sawing is an excellent choice because it is less intrusive and destructive than some other cutting methods. For example, structures such as residential buildings or hospitals require cutting without emissions. Wall saws typically use an electric power source, which is perfect in these instances. Wall sawing uses low vibration, minimizing any possible damage when removing concrete slabs from existing structures. For projects involving large cuts for new construction or demolition, we also have hydraulic-powered wall saws.

Wall sawing is sometimes used in demolition projects where large slabs of concrete are separated into more manageable sections for removal. Known as a separation cut, this kind of work poses challenges with regard to safety and knowledge of cutting techniques. When separation cuts are needed in large walls or at difficult angles, wall sawing is often the best technique to use.

Cobra Concrete Cutting can take care of all your concrete sawing, drilling, demolition, and removal needs. Contact us to discover what makes us Chicago’s concrete experts and put us to work on your next project.

How Concrete Removal Companies Can Make Clean-up Simple

Fri, 06 May 2016 23:09:00 GMT

While some rocks may last a lifetime, concrete isn’t forever. No matter the size or type of your business, the day will eventually come when cracks or crumbling reveal that it’s time to replace the concrete around your property.

Most business owners believe that commercial concrete removal is expensive and messy. But it doesn’t necessarily need to be. As one of Chicago’s largest commercial concrete sawing companies, Cobra Concrete Cutting Services possesses the experience and expertise to make your commercial concrete-removal job flow as smoothly as possible, no matter the scope or specifics.

For bigger sites where it isn’t economical to cut apart large amounts of old concrete by hand, we employ skid steers , whose easy maneuverability and impressive power-to-size ratio makes them perfect for breaking up concrete paneling, trenches, and walls. Not only does the size of our fleet mean we have ample availability, it can also cut down on costs by reducing needed manpower. Skid steers both break down your old concrete and ferry the debris to waiting waste-removal trucks or dumpsters provided by Cobra. If our skid steers can’t easily work their way into certain parts of your site, Cobra will remove those sections using manual means. Related services include sweeping, scrubbing, and vacuuming the area, as well as disposing of any scrap.

Not every business can or wants to deal with various hazards related to concrete removal such as diesel fumes. Hospitals, grocery stores, bottlers, canneries, and other similar enterprises simply cannot handle large amounts of exhaust that may damage products or people. Fortunately, we offer fume-free excavation. Our mini excavators can get into virtually any space, the electric saws we employ help keep your business’ air fresh and clean, and our electric forklifts will safely carry away the scrap in the end.

Speaking of safety , it always comes first at Cobra, and our remote robotic tools mean that we can tackle virtually any sort of project with minimal risk. While small spaces and precarious positioning may prove risky for personnel, our remotely operated demolition robot addresses situations that may initially seem impossible. Not only are these machines armed with an array of chisels, a crushing head, and a debris-removal bucket, they’re manned by veteran operators trained to manage all kinds of hazards.

Of course, the job doesn’t end once we’ve carted away the old concrete. In addition to our various demolition and removal services, Cobra also provides patching for a diverse assortment of areas . Precast panels, wall panels, areas around windows and doors—we manage these and many more types of patching projects. Additionally, we take steps to ensure that your newly patched areas won’t shift or buckle as they set and cure.

Concrete-removal projects can often seem daunting. Yet whether your needs are large or small, specialized or general, site-sensitive or easily understood, Cobra Concrete Cutting Services knows how to address your issues with fairly priced professionalism. Peruse our past projects to see why we’re one of the most reputable concrete companies in the Chicagoland area and contact us for a quote.

What Is Core Drilling?

Fri, 29 Apr 2016 21:39:00 GMT

Concrete drilling, or core drilling, is used every day on construction and engineering projects around the world. Bridges, dams, telecommunications lines, rehab projects, sewer tunnels–these are just some of the many places you’ll find concrete drilling used.

Though the projects themselves are big news, you seldom hear specifically about the techniques used that made it a success. Cobra Concrete Cutting Services Co . is one of the premiere companies in Chicago’s concrete drilling industry. Of course it’s important to have the right equipment to accomplish the drilling that’s needed. Many companies have the drilling equipment that’s needed, but not every operator is fully experienced or prepared to use their equipment safely and effectively to achieve the desired effect.

Diamond coring techniques create a precise circular penetration to the concrete. These holes are anywhere from 1/2″ to around 60″ in diameter, and can be created in any type of concrete slab or wall, at any angle.

Some of the things that the drilling operator has to understand about the core drilling process include:

Wet core drilling

When drilling with a wet core bit, the correct amount of water needed is a key element determined by the operator’s experience. More water is not necessarily always better. The purpose of the water is to create a concrete slurry from the dust that drilling creates. If there is too much water, it simply washes the dust away. If there is too little, the bit continues grinding the same particles and is less effective. In either case no slurry is created and the result suffers. The slurry also serves to cool the diamond drill bit.

Anchoring of drilling machine

The drilling rig must be anchored properly in order to insure a straight core. If the rig is not anchored properly, it is difficult to produce the hole that’s needed with any degree of precision. In addition, there are safety issues involved with improperly anchoring the rig.

Speed

Setting the motor to the proper revolutions per minute is very important to success in diamond core drilling, as it determines whether the diamond surface is grinding correctly. Every core bit is run at its optimal speed, with smaller bits generally requiring higher speeds.

Power supply

To maintain the correct drill speed, the power supply must be adequate and consistent. Most core drilling machines are electrically powered, although hydraulic is available for large diameter holes. Operators try to run the motor near its maximum rated amperage, but without exceeding it, which might cause the drill motor to overheat.

Another use for core drilling is concrete sampling analysis. This technique can assess the strength of concrete, frequently to determine whether it needs repair and reconstructive work. Cylindrical specimens of specific depth obtained with core diamond drilling are then prepared and tested by a lab. The results determine the concrete’s density and strength, its water and gas permeability, and a variety of other factors.

Whatever project you are working on, whether plumbing, electric, HVAC , or sample analysis, you can rely on the experience and training of Cobra Concrete Cutting to do the necessary concrete drilling effectively and safely. Please contact us to discuss the ways we can put our expertise to work for you.

Concrete Slab Sawing in Chicago

Mon, 25 Apr 2016 17:47:00 GMT

So how do you put a pipe or conduit under a concrete slab, once it has set? Maybe you’re adding functionality to an old building, or putting new services into an area where you have to cross a road.

Either way, you don’t want to just rip everything up; jack-hammers leave a terrible mess. You want to make nice clean cuts to make a trench that can be easily patched afterwards. And that’s where concrete slab sawing by Cobra Concrete Cutting of Chicago comes in.

Of course this is done with a circular saw. Because the size ranges anywhere from 5 to 110 horsepower, these machines are mounted on wheels so that you only need steady the machine as you walk behind it while it cuts. The machine is easiest to control on a flat surface, so this is sometimes called flat sawing, though of course it can be done on moderate slopes. For instance, the moderate banking you see on roads is no trouble, and this process is also called road sawing.

Besides, if you’re putting a trench across a road, motorists are likely to be impatient about road closures. For roads, the ease of running the saw across the road and removing just the small pieces of concrete that result makes it much faster than busting up the road with a jack-hammer and then dealing with the rubble. The trench can be laid and filled quickly, and the road put back in service in minimal time.

Another reason to use a concrete saw is if you are dealing with an old area of concrete that has been patched too many times. By sawing out a regular area, dealing with the underlying foundation problem, and then laying a new, uniform slab over the trouble spot, you get a better-than-new professional-looking surface instead of a patchwork quilt advertising past troubles.

Finally, if you’re working with suspended slabs such as on bridges, using a concrete saw allows you to go directly to the trouble spot without damaging the supporting mechanisms, either through direct impact or the shock waves from a jack-hammer or manual chisel operation.

These saws are available with gas, diesel, and electric drives, which are especially useful when your operation is indoors and you don’t want to have to deal with toxic fumes from the exhaust. The electric drives are ideal when you are modifying an existing metal frame building on a concrete slab to bring water, power, or data lines to a new manufacturing operation in your growing business.

If you want to learn more about Cobra, and the wide range of equipment we have to address your concrete cutting challenges, please contact us . We are the largest concrete cutting firm in Chicago, and we have the trained operators to get the job done, regardless of which cutting technique is best for the job. You can also read about our latest news by clicking here .

Whenever your plans are blocked by concrete, we’re here to help you get through to the end.

Concrete Cutting Chicago: Cobra Concrete Cutting Services Awards and Affiliations

Sat, 16 Apr 2016 22:13:00 GMT

Concrete cutting Chicago means Cobra Concrete Cutting Services. We recently celebrated fifteen years in the concrete cutting and sawing industry, and we are leaders in this business.

While we concentrate largely on Chicagoland and the tri-State area, we are capable of providing our services nationwide for large projects.

Safety is a major concern in the concrete cutting industry, and Cobra’s safety record is excellent. The Association of Subcontractors and Affiliates (ASA Chicago) has awarded Cobra with their Annual Safety Award as well as their 2014 Subcontractor of the Year Award. We are also associated with the Concrete Sawing and Drilling Association (CSDA), an organization that actively promotes the highest standards of safety and quality among its members.

Cobra excels at providing innovation and excellent service to its customers. Because of our attention to detail, we have continued to grow quickly. Inc. Magazine rated Cobra number 42 in the category of Fastest Growing Construction Companies in the Country and number 28 in the Fastest Growing Companies in the tri-State area (Illinois, Wisconsin, Indiana) category. The long list of companies and organizations we have successfully worked with is the reason for this growth.

Cobra carries Level 2 certification from the Concrete Sawing and Drilling Association (CSDA). According to the CSDA website :

Companies that achieve a Level 2 certification have shown that they follow generally accepted business practices based on the internationally recognized ISO processes. Level 2 companies have implemented effective business systems to operate more effectively on a daily basis which can lead to cost savings and improved customer satisfaction. Level 2 companies will meet the requirements for most heavy industrial jobs.

CSDA featured a large project that Cobra Concrete Cutting Services worked on in their publication, Concrete Openings . Renovating the Doane Observatory at Chicago’s Adler Planetarium entailed cutting several window and door openings in the observatory’s 14-inch-thick concrete walls. Workers also removed a section of internal wall that partitioned off the hollow interior of the building. This hollow area was “essentially a 20-foot-tall enclosed foundation wall/footing for the telescope on the upper level”, according to Cobra president Dan Foley. The work required a great deal of precision and care because it was of the utmost importance that the telescope, housed above, not be disturbed.

Cobra recognizes the importance of communicating with the contractors they work with, and our representatives attend many industry meetings and conventions where they can talk directly with clients. We have recently attended events such as the ASA Chicago Construction Expo, Illinois Association of Plumbing, Heating, and Cooling Contractors Expo, and ASA Chicago Meet the GCs.

All of the certifications, awards, and expos demonstrate Cobra’s commitment to our mission: “To revolutionize the concrete sawing and drilling industry through our innovation and attitude, and provide a level of service and passion that our customers, our employees and our community desire to experience.”

Cobra has worked on projects in a wide variety of public and private sectors, including restaurants, arenas, landmarks, hotels, condominiums, hospitals, and schools. Contact us to discuss ways we can put our commitment to innovation, safety, and community to work on your next project.

Concrete Excavation in Sensitive Places

Mon, 11 Apr 2016 18:35:00 GMT

If you own or rent a modern metal-frame building on a concrete slab, then concrete excavation is likely in your future.

Any time you must add an electrical conduit, drains, or plumbing, you’re going to have to break through the concrete slab to get to the dirt beneath it. You might even have to dig down to reinforce an area if heavier equipment is going to be moved into an area not designed to support the load.

Jack-hammers are used on city streets where dirt and noise are not an issue, the concrete is not to be saved, cleanliness is not a concern, and the patching-up job, after the work is done, can be a slap-dash temporary affair. This is not what you want done inside your building.

Concrete cutting is used to make regular and even slices in the concrete. This is then smooth enough to form the basis of a grated drainage ditch or be covered by access plates. If the area is to be re-sealed, the patches can be well-defined and aesthetically pleasing. In some cases, the concrete slab can be saved and used in the patch process, reducing the materials cost in resealing the excavation site. In the end, your wheeled carts and other rolling equipment should be able to roll smoothly over the place where the excavation was done.

Another reason you might wish a more controlled excavation process is that you’re not completely sure what is down there. You might encounter undocumented electrical lines, drains, or plumbing.

We at Cobra Concrete Cutting have the tools and equipment to cut and excavate trenches through existing concrete slabs, in a careful and controlled way, and in confined spaces. Our mini excavators are designed to clear narrow spaces so the dirt need not be removed by hand.

The best thing about Cobra’s equipment may not occur to you until you think about the impact this operation will have on the rest of the building. Exhaust from an internal combustion engine contains toxic and potentially corrosive fumes that might not be good for sensitive electronics, chemical operations, FDA certified or pharmaceutical preparations, and most especially are not good for worker health and safety. For indoor operations we have electric-powered cutting and excavating equipment. This can get the job done without smoke and fumes intruding into adjacent areas. Besides, the electric motors are quieter than any gasoline or diesel-powered engine typically found on traditional construction equipment.

We also have equipment that can cut through existing walls and footers to add functionality to your building with minimum disturbance of operations.

If you want to learn more about Cobra’s concrete excavation or our electric mini-excavation equipment, then contact us or visit our website. You can also learn about other news and developments at Cobra Concrete by clicking here .

No battle plan remains unchanged after the opening horn has sounded. The plans for your building are no different. Every new operation or activity you add to your growing business is another chance to revisit the blueprint. When this happens, give us a call to see how we can help!

CSDA Award Winner

Wed, 20 Jan 2016 15:37:00 GMT

Cobra Concrete Cutting Services, Co. is proud to announce that our article, “Aiming for the Stars” from the 2015 March issue has been selected by the CSDA ( Concrete Sawing and Drilling ) magazine as an award winner !

Their magazine, Concrete Openings, is published four times though out the year. In March 2015, Cobra was the feature story for the work we completed at the Doane Observatory in downtown Chicago.

The Concrete Openings Awards program was created to showcase the best job stories covered in the magazine each year and acknowledge the CSDA contractor members who did the work. The panel scored each job based on its pre-planning, use of innovation, degree of difficulty and quality requirements.

In 2015, Cobra Concrete Cutting company’s project scored the highest in the Building Construction category!

We are extremely honored and grateful for receiving this award. For those of you who have not read the article, please feel free to click the link below!

Aiming for the Stars

CSDA December Issue- Small Feature

Wed, 13 Jan 2016 15:18:00 GMT

For those who receive or read the CSDA (Concrete Sawing and Drilling Association) magazine, Cobra has a small feature in this month’s December issue.

CSDA has recognized Cobra Concrete Cutting Services, Co. for our 15th year anniversary in the sawing and drilling industry. The magazine has also highlighted our brand new website that launched earlier this year.

The article is on page 65 for those who are interested in seeing it!

Happy New Year!

Mon, 04 Jan 2016 19:47:00 GMT

On behalf of everyone here at Cobra Concrete Cutting Services, Co., we would like to wish everyone a Happy New Year!

We are looking forward to another exciting year where we can grow as a company and better serve our customers and community. We will continue emphasizing our mission- “To revolutionize the concrete sawing and drilling industry through our innovation and attitude, provide a level of service and passion that our customers, our employees and our community desire to experience.”

We celebrated our 15 year anniversary in the concrete sawing and drilling industry this past December. From all of us here at Cobra Concrete Cutting Services, Co., we are looking forward to the many more years to come!

Cobra at Meet the GC’s

Tue, 13 Oct 2015 14:28:00 GMT

Cobra was in attendance last week at the ASA Chicago (The Association of Subcontractors and Affiliates) Meet the GC’s event.

Our team here at Cobra Concrete Cutting Services, Co. was able to meet with industry professionals who we work with on a daily basis. It is always a great opportunity to connect with our customers whom we do business with in the concrete cutting and drilling industry.

ILPHCC Expo

Wed, 11 Mar 2015 15:37:00 GMT

Cobra Concrete Cutting attended the Illinois Association of Plumbing, Heating, and Cooling Contractors Expo at Drury Lane on March 20th.

This was a great event to help network and meet some of our plumbing customers who we perform work for.

http://www.ilphcc.com/expo

Little Angel’s Pledge Run

Wed, 11 Mar 2015 15:21:00 GMT

Cobra is proud to give back and be a part of the Little Angel’s organization located in Elgin, IL.

Little Angels is a loving home for children and young adults with severe disabilities and complex medical needs. On May 17 ^th , they will be hosting their 28 ^th annual Little Angels Pledge Run. For more information or if you are interested in buying raffle tickets, please contact Dan Foley at danfoley@cobraconcrete.com

http://www.littleangels.org/

http://www.lapledgerun.com/

ASA Safety Expo

Mon, 02 Mar 2015 15:11:00 GMT

Cobra attended the ASA Chicago Construction Expo at the Drury Lane Conference Center.

The Association of Subcontractor of Chicago is an independent, nonprofit trade association representing the subcontracting industry and its affiliates. Several employees of Cobra were present at this event and we were fortunate to have Mrs. Illinois as a member of Cobra’s team.

CSDA

Sun, 01 Mar 2015 15:01:00 GMT

Check us out in the CSDA March issue!

Cobra has been selected for a featured story in this month’s CSDA Magazine. The project featured in this story is the Doane Observatory, which is part of the Adler Planetarium located in downtown Chicago.
Check out the link below:

Aiming for the Stars

AirClimb 2015

Sun, 08 Feb 2015 14:51:00 GMT

Cobra gathered a team to help raise awareness and money for the American Lung Association’s event called Fight for Air Climb.

Several employees here at Cobra climbed 31-62 flights of stairs at the Oakbrook Terrace Tower located in Oakbrook Terrace. We all had a great time together and definitely got a great work out in!

View More At:

http://www.lung.org/pledge-events/il/oakbrook-terrace-climb-fy15/

http://www.lung.org/