How to Cut Paver Stones
Paver stones are much weaker than traditional indoor ceramic and natural floor tiles. They are typically aggregates of other materials or a weak clay-fired product. To make up for the weaknesses in their material, they are much thicker than a typical tile. Because they are weaker, many people cut paver stones by scoring and cracking the tiles. This not only takes a long time but has variable results, such as cracking and jagged edges. Cutting paver stones should be done with a wet saw, a type of saw featuring a carbide blade and a wet pan that pumps water onto the cut. A wet saw guarantees a smooth cut that will not crack or crumble along the edges. Wet saws are relatively inexpensive to rent from a local hardware or rental company and will make the process of installing paver tiles much easier and quicker. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
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Cutting Paver Tiles
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1
Set the wet saw up on a sturdy surface, check the blade for cracks or defects and fill the pan with water up to the level recommended on the pump.
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2
Measure the area where the paver will be placed, and mark where you want your cut on the paver.
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3
Place the tile on the sliding tray. The tray of the wet saw has a ruler marked on the back and a gap in it where the cut will go. With the saw turned off, place the paver on the tray and line up your mark with the cut gap. Slide the tray toward the blade, and make sure the blade will hit where you want your cut. Adjust if necessary.
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4
Pull the stone back from the blade. Turn the saw on. On most saws, this will also turn on the water pump but some saws have a separate switch, so if necessary, also turn on the water pump. Wait for the water to begin to flow out over the blade.
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5
Push the tray, with two hands, slowly toward the blade. Moving too quickly will not give the water enough time to cool the stone as it is cut and will result in cracking. Your rate of advance should be about an inch a second.
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6
When the cut is finished, turn the saw off BEFORE removing the stone from the tray.
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Tips & Warnings
Debris may accumulate in the water pan after several cuts. If there is too much debris in the tray, it may begin to interfere with the performance of the water pump. Drain and clean the water pan as necessary.
