Clean Soff-Cut® joints are the hallmark of a skilled concrete contractor. Proper cutting techniques can prevent raveling and spalling, ensuring durable, professional results. Follow these expert tips to achieve clean Soff-Cut® joints and maintain the integrity of your concrete work.

Break in Your Blade Properly

Before making any cuts, always break in your Soff-Cut® blade to expose the diamonds for optimal cutting performance. Here’s how:

1. Install the diamond blade on your saw.

2. Reduce the engine RPM to 50%.

3. Run the blade through green concrete for 50–100 feet at 50% RPM.

4. Check for exposed diamonds on the blade segment.

Breaking in the blade properly extends its lifespan and enhances cutting efficiency. Learn more about breaking in your Soff-Cut® blades.

Cut in the Green Zone™

Soff-Cut® saws are designed to operate when concrete is in the Green Zone™, the ideal cutting window. To identify the Green Zone™:

1. Press your hand onto the concrete—if there’s no imprint, proceed to step 2.

2. Step onto the concrete—if no footprint remains, move to step 3.

3. Roll your saw onto the surface—if no mark is left, the concrete is ready for cutting.

Timing is critical—cutting outside the Green Zone™ increases the risk of raveling and joint failure. Watch Husqvarna's video on detecting the concrete's Green Zone™.

Check the Skid Plate Alignment

The skid plate prevents the blade from wobbling, which can cause raveled joints. It is located at the bottom of the blade block and attached to two spring-loaded pistons. Misalignment increases the risk of uneven cuts.

To check alignment:

1. Install the blade on your saw.

2. Drop the blade into an existing cut.

3. Ensure the blade sits in the center of the skid plate and that the pistons move freely.

If the skid plate or blade block is damaged, visit one of our Repair Centers for service. 

Use Joint Protectors

A must-have for every Soff-Cut® contractor, joint protectors are small, corrugated plastic pieces that:

1. Protect existing joints at intersections.

2. Prevent saw wheels from damaging joints.

3. Reduce the risk of concrete collapse during cutting.

Using joint protectors ensures long-lasting, professional-quality concrete joints.

Fix Raveled Joints with the Husqvarna X150D

For contractors needing to repair raveled or spalled joints, the Husqvarna Soff-Cut® 150D is an excellent solution. Designed for decorative cuts, driveways, and parking lots, it:

1. Cleans and refines damaged joints.

2. Prevents tear-outs.

3. Creates beveled or radius edges for a hand-tooled finish.

Investing in the right equipment can save time, reduce rework, and deliver superior results.

Achieve Cleaner Cuts with Expert Support

By following these best practices, you can ensure clean, durable Soff-Cut joints while minimizing costly repairs. Need more guidance? Contact our team for expert recommendations and equipment support.