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How to cut a trench in asphalt or a concrete slab like a pro

Cutting trenches in concrete or asphalt with a floor saw

Do you need to cut through a concrete slab or asphalt driveway? Whether you’re working on plumbing, fiber-optic installations, or simply fixing pavement, knowing how to cut a trench in asphalt or concrete is a crucial skill for construction, landscaping, and roadwork. With the right tools—like a trencher road saw or asphalt cutting saw—you can get clean, precise results in less time and with less effort.

What’s the best way to cut a trench in concrete or asphalt?

First things first: can you cut asphalt with a concrete saw? Yes, you can! In fact, a road saw (also known as a concrete saw) is one of the best options available. But if you’re cutting a trench, it’s much more efficient to use a trenching saw or asphalt trencher, like those offered by SIMA. Why? Because trench cutters are designed with two parallel blades and adjustable width, allowing you to cut both sides of the trench in one go—saving time, effort, and ensuring perfect alignment.

Compare that to a standard floor saw, which requires two separate passes for each trench wall—doubling your work time and increasing the chance of uneven cuts.

What is a ditch witch used for?

You’ve probably heard of the Ditch Witch. So, what is a Ditch Witch used for? It’s a versatile trenching machine often used to install cables or pipelines, and yes, a Ditch Witch can cut asphalt—but only if equipped with the right diamond blades or asphalt-specific blades. If you’re looking for a ditch witch trencher alternative with more accuracy for smaller or shallower trenches, SIMA’s concrete trench cutters are the perfect solution.

Tips for saw cutting asphalt and concrete trenches

Want smooth, safe, and efficient trench cutting? Here are some pro tips:

  • Use diamond-tipped blades for cutting asphalt or concrete slabs.
  • Always wear protective gear: gloves, goggles, and a respirator if dry cutting.
  • Avoid pushing down on the saw—let the machine do the work.
  • Align the blade with your cutting line before turning on the machine.
  • Adjust both the depth and width of your cut before starting.
  • Wet cutting reduces dust and blade overheating—safer for you and your equipment.

Whether you’re cutting asphalt with a circular saw, a road saw, or a trenching saw, the most important factor is using the right blade. For instance, circular saw blades to cut asphalt should feature diamond teeth and venting slots to clear debris and avoid overheating.

Don’t forget your diamond blades: choosing the right one matters

Before every job, inspect your asphalt saw cutting blades or concrete trenching blades for damage. Use wet-cut blades when water is available, and dry-cut blades only in well-ventilated areas with the proper safety gear.

Also, keep an eye on your machine’s arbor and ensure that water is flowing evenly on both sides of the blade during wet cuts—this helps extend the life of your tool and ensures a cleaner cut.

Cut trenches like a pro with Sima

If you’re still wondering how to cut asphalt, how to cut a trench in concrete, or how to cut driveway asphalt, you’re not alone. But now you’ve got the answers—and the tools.
Browse SIMA’s full range of trench saws, asphalt cutters, and diamond blades designed specifically for asphalt cutting, concrete trenching, and pavement cutting tasks.

Enjoy international shipping and easy returns when you shop at SIMA. Check out the SIMA catalogue now and gear up for your next trench cutting job

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