What are floor & road saws?
Floor and road saws are wheeled cutting machines fitted with diamond blades designed to cut through concrete, asphalt, block paving and other hard surfaces. Road saws (sometimes called slab saws) are used for deeper cuts on carriageways and driveways, while floor saws are optimised for controlled cuts in floors and slabs. They come in petrol, diesel and electric variants, and in multiple cutting depths depending on blade size.
Typical jobs and trades that use them
These machines are essential for a wide range of groundworks and construction tasks. Common users include:
- Groundworkers cutting trenches for drainage or services
- Landscapers producing neat edges and removing old patios
- Builders and contractors installing joints and making openings in slabs
- Highways and surfacing teams repairing carriageways and kerbs
- Self-build homeowners tackling concrete removals or driveway works
Key things to look for when hiring
Not all saws are the same — match the machine to the job:
- Cutting depth: Check maximum blade diameter and cutting depth to ensure the saw will reach the required depth in one pass.
- Blade type: Diamond blades are standard; choose specialist blades for asphalt or reinforced concrete.
- Power source: Electric saws offer low emissions for indoor work; petrol/diesel suits remote sites without power.
- Water suppression: Many jobs need wet cutting to control dust — confirm the saw has a water feed or plan for dust controls.
- Transport and setup: Consider the machine footprint, kerbside access and whether you need assistance with loading — we offer delivery and free collection if you collect.
Why hire rather than buy
Buying a road or floor saw is a significant investment, plus you’ll need blades, maintenance and storage. Hiring gives you:
- Access to the right machine for each job without long-term commitment
- Serviced, insured equipment ready to use
- Lower upfront cost and no depreciation or storage hassle
- Flexibility to upgrade for larger or specialised jobs
For tradespeople we also offer exclusive trade account discounts as CPA members, which reduces ongoing hire costs for regular work.
Safety and operator tips
Floor and road saws are powerful tools — follow safety best practice:
- Training: Ensure operators are competent; consider our advice when booking. If you need a trained operator, ask about hiring one with the machine.
- PPE: Use eye protection, hearing protection, gloves, steel-toe boots and dust masks as appropriate.
- Dust & water: Use water suppression for wet cutting to reduce silica dust; for dry cutting use suitable extraction and respirators.
- Site prep: Mark services before cutting and isolate power or gas lines. Keep the work area clear and maintain good ventilation for indoor cuts.
- Maintenance checks: Inspect blades, guards and drive belts before use. Stop work immediately if the machine vibrates excessively or cuts poorly.
Why choose Breckland Plant Hire?
Breckland Plant Hire is a family-run company based in Attleborough with years of hands-on experience supplying plant to Norfolk and Suffolk trades. We pride ourselves on well-maintained machines, friendly support and reliable delivery. We deliver all plant within 20 miles of Attleborough and Wymondham and offer free collection for customers who prefer to pick up. As CPA members we provide professional standards and exclusive discounts for trade accounts.
If you’re unsure which saw you need, our team will recommend the right model and blade for your job. Browse our products, check availability on the hire page or contact us to reserve a machine and book delivery.
Book today
For fast, reliable floor and road saw hire across Norfolk and Suffolk, book online or call our Attleborough depot. We’ll help you choose the correct saw, arrange delivery within 20 miles, and provide practical safety guidance so your cut is clean and efficient.