A kerf cut is a:

A kerf cut is defined specifically as a cut that is made only as wide as the saw blade used for inspection. This term originates from the fact that the cut creates a narrow opening that allows firefighters to inspect structural materials, such as the integrity of a roof or wall, without causing significant damage. The precision of a kerf cut is crucial, as it facilitates targeted assessment without unnecessarily compromising structural strength or stability.

Kerf cuts are used strategically to assess conditions such as fire spread or hidden fire in concealed spaces. This method helps in understanding the situation more effectively, and the narrowness of the cut minimizes potential hazards while still providing important information about the structural condition of the material being inspected.