Cutting Tips for Bricks & Pavers
Bricks and pavers can be quite difficult to cut, and the quickest, most accurate method is to use a block splitter. These machines 'squeeze' the brick between an upper and a lower blade, exerting such a force than the brick snaps along the line of the blades. Splitters are simple to use, have no lethal moving parts (unlike power saws) and generate hardly any dust. They are available at most tool hire centres. However, care must be taken to support the offcuts from the splitter, to ensure that they do not drop and break on the floor. Place a piece of foam rubber or an old rug on the ground to reduce breakages.
Alternatively, bricks and pavers may be cut using a power saw. Whilst this method can quickly produce a number of neat cuts, it also generates a huge amount of dust. A table mounted saw with a diamond blade and a water source is recommended.
Always wear goggles when cutting paving blocks.
The third method for cutting bricks and pavers is using a bolster (a broad-edged cold chisel) and a club hammer.
- Place the brick on a firm, flat surface and, using the corner of a bolster and a straight edge, score a groove on both faces and edges to mark the cutting line.
- Using a bolster and club hammer, chisel a groove about 3 mm (1/8 in) deep along this line.
- Work the chisel along the line several times to define and deepen the groove.
- Place the brick on a firm surface and raise the smaller part of the brick to be cut onto a length of timber.
- Tap the brick sharply with the handle of a club hammer until a split forms along the line of the groove.
- Trim any rough pieces carefully with the bolster.
