How to Cut Concrete Blocks
Cutting concrete blocks can be done a few different ways. The easiest would be with a circular saw and a masonry cutting blade. It will provide a perfect cut but is very dusty, so be prepared for a bit of cleanup and the need for wearing face dust masks.This "how to" will show a manual method of cutting concrete blocks with a chisel and hammer.Note that cutting concrete blocks should be used as a second best option to buying smaller blocks or blocks cut to size by a professional at a hardware type of store that specializes in masonry. Does this Spark an idea?
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Things You'll Need
- Concrete block
- Safety glasses
- Gloves (optional)
- Pencil, marker or chalk
- Sander
- Masonry chisel
- Bricklayer's or masonry hammer (heavy three-pound type)
Instructions
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Directions
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1
Find a concrete block that is meant to be cut. It will have a vertical concrete bar in the middle.
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2
Lay concrete block on the ground or sturdy work area.
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3
Draw a line on one side of the block where you need the cut. Use a ruler as a guide for a straight line.
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4
Turn the block over. Draw a line where you need the cut. Use a ruler as a guide for a straight line. Be sure it is in the exact same position as the line made on the opposite side in Step 3.
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5
Strike the chisel on to the line in Step 3 with a bricklayer's or masonry hammer a few times across the line (not in the same spot or it will crack the block).
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6
Turn the block over. Strike the chisel on to the line in Step 5 with a bricklayer's or masonry hammer a few times across the line (again not in the same spot or it will crack the block).
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7
Listen for a ringing sound when you hit the block.
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8
Continue hitting the line with the chisel and rotating sides for an even break.
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9
Continue hitting the line with the chisel until the ringing sound turns flat as the crack grows.
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10
Hit it all around the line once more and the block should part.
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11
Sand the broken edge if it is too jagged.
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1
Tips & Warnings
Always wear safety glasses because jagged piece of concrete might fly into the eyes.
Gloves are optional but recommended as they will provide a better grip on the chisel and hammer.
Face or dust masks are recommended when cutting block, especially when cutting with a circular saw.
- Photo Credit wikicommons: Achim Hering
