At times concrete blocks can fail to fit into the spaces that they are placed or they may need to get shaped into different sizes and shapes to fit a certain construction or aesthetic pattern. As such, whole concrete blocks may need to get cut to fit a chosen and proper size. There are few methods used to shape and cut concrete blocks to suit the construction requirements. The technique that you choose depends on the smoothness or roughness that you’d like your blocks to have, and the kind of block cutting machine that you have for the job.
There are three popular methods of cutting concrete blocks, including the concrete chisel and hammer option, and the electric saw and block splitter or separator options. You can select any of the three techniques depending on the tools at your disposal, the project that the blocks will serve, and the desired smoothness or roughness of the cut. Read on to learn more about the three-block cutting techniques.
The Electric Saw Concrete Block Cutting Option
Concrete blocks that are six inches or less in size can get cut perfectly by cut-off saws and circular saws. If you are planning to cut concrete blocks for your basement walls, patios, or sidewalks, then a proper electric saw and a bit of technical skills on how to use the saw can save you lots of expenditure that would go into hiring a contractor to do the work. By using an electric saw, you can cut concrete blocks with little effort and in a short period. You may use a circular or masonry saw, but before purchasing your ideal saw you should determine the kind of saw that will be ideal for your work requirements. You should adjust your saw and make a first light line cut before deepening the cut in subsequent cutting steps where you run the saw along the cutting line to get a cut that is clean and smooth.
The Concrete Chisel and Hammer Method
This method is the oldest and often preferred technique in concrete block cutting. The technique requires few tools and it doesn’t need any source of power like the electric saw method. The biggest drawback of this method is that it needs a lot of physical work and muscle to get the work done. You will require a little hand dexterity, and it’s not recommendable if you are in a hurry to get the process done because it’s a slow method. Ideally, you should start by marking the cut lines using a sharp object. Thereafter, you can wear on your personal protection equipment and start making light blows along the marked lines by using the hammer and chisel. You should continue repeating the hits with more firm blows till the block splits.
Block Separator or Block Splitter Option
The block splitter or separator is a special block cutting machine that makes the cutting process simple and quick. This professional answer provides accurate cuts. But you are required to buy or hire a block separator from a construction equipment supplier. To cut your blocks you have to put the concrete block firmly under the separator’s cutting blade to avoid any movement during the process. Lastly, you should apply the ideal amount of pressure to the equipment’s blade that will give the block a neat cut.
