How to Cut Cinder Block to Install a Beam
Cinder-block walls may be fitted with a wooden beam for roof or floor support. Most often, though, these beams cannot be placed directly on top of a wall, but must be inserted into slots cut out of the concrete blocks. The do-it-yourselfer can cut cinder blocks in preparation for beam installation in two to four hours, depending on the size and scope of the project. Does this Spark an idea?
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Things You'll Need
- Tape measure
- Pencil
- Square
- Circular saw
- Masonry blade
- Brick hammer
- Brick chisel
- Vacuum
Instructions
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1
Measure and mark the cinder block at the correct location. Measure the beam width and thickness and add 1/8 inch to each measurement to allow for wood expansion. Locate the correct height of the beam placement in relation to the wall, and place a line to represent the center of the beam. Measure over to the right and left by half the thickness of the beam. For example, if your beam is 4 inches thick and you added 1/8 inch to that total, then measure over 2-1/16 inches to the left and right of the center mark and place marks to represent the outer edges of the beam.
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2
Square the beam measurements equal to the measurements of the beam using a speed square or framing square. Place square marks, creating a complete square that represents the area that will be cut out.
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3
Cut into the cinder blocks with a circular saw and masonry blade. Put on eye goggles and a dust mask before proceeding. Start the saw before placing the blade against the wall. Gently press the blade into the pencil marks on the wall. Cut all four sides of the pencil marks that represent the beam placement.
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4
Break away the cut cinder block with a brick hammer, working carefully. Break small chips from the cinder block rather than larger ones. Chipping large pieces may damage the cinder block and ruin the project. Chip the interior of the cinder block with a chisel and brick hammer. Use the chisel to slowly carve the interior of the cinder block to receive the beam.
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5
Vacuum the dust and broken cinder block from the interior of the cut. Continue to clean out the cinder block with the brick chisel and hammer until the opening is large enough to receive the wooden beam. Clean out all dust and debris before inserting the beam.
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References
- "Masonry Skills"; R.T. Kreh; 2002
- "Masonry & Concrete"; Benjamin W. Allen; 1997
- "Building with Masonry"; Dick Kreh; 1998
