If you need to cut some pavers in order to fit them into your patio design, you may wonder if it’s really worth it. How hard is it to cut a paver, anyway? Fortunately, there are a few different ways of cutting pavers, and none of them are really that difficult. Here’s a breakdown of a few of these options.
Cut Them by Hand
If you have a hammer and set of chisels, you can cut your pavers by hand if they’re not too hard. This method works for bricks, concrete pavers, and most other “soft” pavers. This is the oldest and traditional way of cutting pavers. You’ll want to measure the exact size you need and mark a line on all sides of the paver.
Now, place the paver on the ground or a flat surface and position your cold chisel on the line. Tap it down with a hammer. Do this on all four sides, then use the larger brick-set chisel to break the paver. If the stone doesn’t break, you may need to use the cold chisel to make deeper lines. You might also need to break off any uneven parts of stone still attached.
Use a Power Saw
A power saw doesn’t require as much manpower as using a hammer and chisel does, so it can save you a lot of work if you have a good number of pavers to cut. However, power tools of any kind can be dangerous, especially if you haven’t used them before and aren’t sure how to. You will want to make certain you are using all of the proper safety gear, including gloves, eyewear, and a dust mask, before you use a power saw.
First, start out with measuring and marking your paver, though this time you only need to mark the front and back. Next, install a diamond masonry blade in your saw. This blade is designed to cut pavers, though you will want to make certain the blade is also designed for use on the type of material (stone, brick, concrete, etc.). You will want to make a half-inch cut.
Place the paver on the ground or other flat surface and saw across the lines on both the front and back. Once you have these lines cut, take the paver over to a table or set of stairs. Place it so that the part to cut off is hanging off the surface. Use a hammer to hit this end while holding the other end stable. The paver should break right at the cut line.
Have other questions about cutting pavers? We can help. Contact Island Block & Masonry Supply today with your questions.
