The cost to saw cut asphalt generally ranges from \$5 to \$15 per linear foot, but this price can change a lot based on the job’s size, the asphalt’s thickness, and where you are located. This article will break down all the things that affect asphalt saw cutting prices so you can get a better idea of what to budget.
Factors Setting the Price for Asphalt Cutting
Saw cutting asphalt is not a one-size-fits-all service. Many elements work together to set the final price you see on a professional asphalt cutting quote. Think of it like buying groceries; the final bill depends on what you buy and how much you need.
Depth of the Cut: The Biggest Factor
The depth of the asphalt layer is one of the most important parts of the cost. Deeper cuts take longer. They also need tougher equipment and specialized blades.
- Shallow cuts (under 4 inches) are faster and use less powerful machines.
- Deep cuts (over 6 inches) require heavy-duty equipment. This increases labor time and wear on the tools.
When looking at flat saw cutting prices per foot, the depth is almost always the first number the contractor asks for.
Square Footage and Length of the Job
Most contractors base their rates on linear feet (the length of the cut). However, very small jobs might have a minimum charge, while very large jobs might get a bulk discount.
- Small Jobs: If you only need a short cut, expect a higher per-foot rate to cover the setup time.
- Large Jobs: For long trenches or many cuts, the cost of road cutting services usually drops per foot because the machine is already set up and running.
Type of Blade Used
To cut asphalt, contractors use special blades, often diamond blade asphalt cutting cost being a major component of the overhead.
- Diamond blades are essential for clean, fast cuts in hard surfaces like asphalt and concrete.
- These blades wear out. The cost to replace or maintain them is built into the service price. Thicker or older asphalt wears out blades faster.
Site Conditions and Access
Where the cutting needs to happen matters a lot for the final price.
- Accessibility: Is the area easy to reach with heavy equipment? If the crew has to carry heavy saws a long distance, labor costs go up.
- Traffic Control: Cutting on a busy street means you need cones, signs, and maybe flaggers. This adds to the pavement cutting services pricing. Safety measures are non-negotiable.
- Water Availability: Most wet cutting requires a constant supply of water to keep the dust down and cool the blade. If water access is difficult, extra costs for hauling water may apply.
Deeper Look at Pricing Structures
When you ask for a quote, you will see different ways contractors charge for their work. Knowing these terms helps you compare offers fairly.
Hourly Rates vs. Per-Foot Pricing
Some contractors prefer charging by the hour, while others stick to per-foot rates.
Hourly Rates
Hourly rates are common for tricky jobs, repairs, or when the depth or material is uncertain. This covers the time spent even if the actual cutting slows down.
| Task | Typical Hourly Rate Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Operator & Flat Saw | \$75 – \$120 per hour | For basic cutting tasks. |
| Crew Labor (2 people) | \$90 – \$150 per hour | Includes setup, cleanup, and assistance. |
| Minimum Service Call | \$250 – \$500 | Standard charge just to show up and start work. |
Per-Foot Rates
Per-foot rates are best for straight, simple cuts where the depth is known. This is where you see the low flat saw cutting prices per foot.
- For standard 4-inch asphalt, expect rates near the lower end of the overall spectrum.
- For thicker asphalt or cuts requiring special cleanup, the price moves higher.
The Cost of Asphalt Demolition Cutting
If the goal is not just to make a line but to remove a section (part of asphalt demolition cutting cost), the price changes. Cutting is only the first step. Removing the debris (hauling and disposal) adds significant expense.
- Cutting cost is only part of the removal job.
- Disposal fees are based on weight and local landfill charges.
Asphalt Joint Cutting Expenses
Sometimes, the work is specialized, like cutting control joints in new pavement or slicing existing pavement to manage cracking. Asphalt joint cutting expenses might be lower because these cuts are usually shallow (1-2 inches) and quick to perform with smaller tools.
Equipment Choices and Their Impact on Cost
The equipment used directly affects speed and the final price. The most common tool is the walk-behind floor saw, often called a flat saw.
Flat Saw Cutting Prices per Foot and Machine Type
Contractors must choose the right saw for the job.
- Small Electric Saws: Good for interior work or very light cuts. They are quieter and cheaper to operate but slower.
- Gas-Powered Flat Saws: The industry standard. They are powerful enough for most roads and parking lots. The running cost (fuel, blade wear) is factored into the flat saw cutting prices per foot.
- Large Tractor-Mounted Saws: Used for massive highway projects or extremely deep cuts. These involve high mobilization fees.
Flat Saw Rental Cost vs Hiring a Professional Service
Many homeowners and small contractors wonder if renting is cheaper than hiring experts.
- Renting a Flat Saw: A good quality walk-behind saw might rent for \$100 – \$250 per day.
- Hidden Costs of Renting: If you rent, you must also factor in:
- Buying or renting a specialized diamond blade (can cost \$300 – \$800).
- Labor costs for your own crew to operate it safely.
- Water source setup and dust control equipment.
- Disposal costs for the cut asphalt pieces.
- Insurance liability if something goes wrong.
For most asphalt cutting projects, hiring a company that provides pavement cutting services pricing that includes labor, equipment, and insurance is often less expensive and definitely less risky than renting.
Location, Location, Location: Geographic Cost Variations
Where you are in the country plays a role in asphalt saw cutting prices. Labor wages and material costs differ widely between regions.
- High Cost of Living Areas (Major Cities): Labor rates and permit fees are much higher in dense urban areas. Expect prices on the higher end of the spectrum.
- Rural Areas: Lower labor costs might result in cheaper per-foot rates, but mobilization fees (travel time) might be added if the contractor has to drive a long way.
Always specify your exact location when requesting a quote.
What About Cutting Concrete? Comparing Costs
While this article focuses on asphalt, it is helpful to see how concrete saw cutting rates compare, as contractors often do both.
Asphalt is generally softer and easier to cut than concrete.
- Asphalt Cutting: Faster, lower blade wear, generally cheaper.
- Concrete Cutting: Slower, much higher blade wear, often requires stronger saws, resulting in higher concrete saw cutting rates.
If your project involves cutting through an asphalt overlay down to a concrete base, the contractor must quote for both materials, which will increase the overall cost.
Obtaining an Accurate Professional Asphalt Cutting Quote
To get the most accurate professional asphalt cutting quote, you need to provide detailed information upfront. Don’t just ask, “How much to cut the road?”
Provide the following details:
- Exact Location: Address or detailed description.
- Material Type: Is it just asphalt, or is there concrete underneath?
- Depth of Cut: Measure the thickness of the asphalt layer accurately.
- Total Length: Measure the exact linear footage needed.
- Purpose of Cut: Is it for utility repair, drain installation, or control joints? (This affects required precision).
- Time Constraints: Are there specific windows of time you need the work done? (Rush jobs cost more).
A good contractor will visit the site if the job is complex before finalizing the price.
Summary of Cost Influencers
Here is a quick review of what pushes the price up or down for your asphalt cutting job:
| Factor That Increases Cost | Factor That Decreases Cost |
|---|---|
| Very deep cuts (over 6 inches) | Shallow cuts (under 3 inches) |
| Difficult site access or cleanup | Easy, open access to the cutting area |
| High traffic areas needing complex traffic control | Quiet, private areas |
| Small, minimum service calls | Large volume jobs (bulk discounts) |
| Cutting old, very hard asphalt mixes | Cutting newer, softer asphalt |
| Needing specialized concrete base cutting | Asphalt-only cuts |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Asphalt Saw Cutting Costs
What is the average cost per foot for asphalt saw cutting?
On average, you can expect asphalt saw cutting prices to fall between \$5 and \$15 per linear foot for standard depth cuts (4-6 inches). Remember, very small jobs may incur a higher effective rate due to minimum service fees.
Does the depth of the cut drastically change the asphalt demolition cutting cost?
Yes, significantly. Doubling the depth often requires much more powerful equipment, slower cutting speeds, and faster blade wear, which can raise the asphalt demolition cutting cost by 30% to 50% or more, depending on the starting depth.
Can I save money by using concrete saw cutting rates principles for asphalt?
No, you should not assume concrete saw cutting rates apply to asphalt. Asphalt is usually cheaper to cut. Trying to apply concrete pricing to asphalt might mean you overpay, or trying to apply asphalt pricing to concrete will result in a low quote that the contractor cannot honor.
How do I know if I need to pay for water during the service?
Water is crucial for cooling the diamond blade and suppressing silica dust. Nearly all professional pavement cutting services pricing includes water usage. If a quote seems suspiciously low, check if they plan to “dry cut,” which is often illegal in busy areas due to dust concerns and is damaging to the blade.
If I rent equipment, how much is the flat saw rental cost vs hiring?
A flat saw rental cost vs hiring comparison usually shows that hiring a professional is cheaper for jobs over a few hundred linear feet. Renting might save money on a very tiny, one-hour job, but when you add the cost of blades, fuel, labor to run it, and cleanup, the professional service usually wins out.
Are there special fees involved in asphalt joint cutting expenses?
Asphalt joint cutting expenses are usually on the lower end because the cuts are shallow. However, if the joints are difficult to access (e.g., inside a tight warehouse floor), small setup fees might apply.
Do I need to handle traffic control myself?
For public roads or busy private lots, the professional contractor will include traffic control setup in their cost of road cutting services. They are liable and trained to set up cones and signs safely. Do not attempt large road cuts without professional traffic management.