How to cut pavers without a concrete block saw

When undertaking projects like building a patio, fire pit, or retaining wall, you often face the task of cutting concrete blocks, bricks, stone pavers, or cinder blocks. As these materials are typically laid in a staggered pattern, precise cuts along the outer edges are essential for a polished look. Although there are various tools available for cutting masonry—from high-tech masonry saws to basic chisels and hammers—choosing the right concrete block cutter depends on the finish you desire, the volume of cuts required, and the tools you have at your disposal. Always start by donning protective gear for your lungs, eyes and ears.

How to cut concrete blocks

For projects requiring smooth and precise cuts, the optimal method is using a wet cutting concrete block saw, also known as a masonry saw. If you’re familiar with using a circular saw, you’ll find it relatively straightforward to adapt it for cutting cinder blocks, breeze blocks, and stone pavers. The key component in any concrete block cutting saw is the diamond blade; selecting the appropriate blade for the material you’re working with is crucial. Utilizing a saw helps minimize the creation of airborne dust, which can be hazardous to your health.

How to cut concrete without a saw

If a masonry saw isn’t available, there are still effective ways to cut concrete blocks without one. For smaller projects, a standard circular saw equipped with a masonry diamond blade or a simple chisel and hammer can suffice. If you frequently need to cut concrete blocks, it might be worth purchasing or renting a concrete saw.

Using a circular saw

When using a circular saw to cut masonry blocks, the most critical aspect is the diamond blade. You must choose a blade specifically designed for the material you are cutting, which is readily available at hardware stores or online at SIMA for instance. One limitation of circular saws is that they cannot be used with water, necessitating a dry-cutting blade. Before cutting, securely mark the block and clamp it to your workbench. Start the saw and let the blade grind through the concrete. Remember, dry cutting generates significant friction, so periodically withdraw the blade to prevent overheating. Depending on the block’s thickness, several passes may be required to cut through entirely.

Using a chisel and hammer

For those preferring a more manual method, cutting concrete blocks with a chisel and hammer involves a simple two-step process. First, place the chisel over your marked line and lightly tap it with the hammer to score a shallow groove about 1/8” deep around the block. Then, intensify your hammer strikes to deepen the score until the block splits into two. This method might leave a rougher edge but can be very effective for smaller or fewer cuts. These techniques for cutting concrete blocks cater to different levels of accessibility and project scales. Whether you choose to use sophisticated tools or more rudimentary methods, the key to successful block cutting lies in the precision and safety of your approach.

Find you perfect concrete block saw and blades at SIMA UK

Ready to take your project to the next level with precise and efficient cutting? Explore SIMA’s extensive selection of concrete block saws and diamond blades, designed to meet the needs of any construction task, big or small.