If you are renovating your yard and creating a patio or paved area, you will probably need to cut blocks of paving tiles to fit your design.
Cutting sidewalk tiles by hand is not difficult, and it can be done in several ways. In this article, we’ll tell you the best way to cut paving tiles:
- Cutting paving tiles with a chisel and hammer.
- Cutting paving tiles with a circular saw (grinder).
- Cutting paving tiles with a block chopper (guillotine).
And if you want to create curves with pavement, we have some tips for cutting curved slabs.
Cutting paving tiles with a chisel and hammer
Cutting paving tiles with a chisel and hammer is a time-tested method. It is probably the easiest and most hassle-free method that requires the fewest tools. It’s also one of the safest methods, so if you’re not sure about using power tools, this may be the best option for you.
What tools are needed?
- A pin chisel or drill bit
- Lump hammer
- Safety glasses
- Protective gloves
- Measuring tape
- Pencil or chalk
Step 1: Measure the length of the paving block
The first step is to measure the space you want to fill with a paver, and then use chalk or pencil to clearly mark the size you want on your slab. Use a level for straight lines and a neat finish.
Step 2 – Cut the paving stone
Take a hammer and chisel to cut your paving stones. Hold the chisel just behind the line you drew on the slab, and gently but firmly strike with the hammer until the tile splits. Use a chisel to knock down any sharp rough edges and create a neat finish.
Step 3 – Laying the tiles
When you like the straight, even edges of your new-sized pavers, slide them into the allotted space and tap them with a rubber mallet to make sure they are firmly in place.
Cutting paving tiles with a circular saw
Whether you’re laying down your patio or replacing some areas, a circular saw will get the job done in no time. But be sure to use a diamond blade for masonry rather than the standard blade used for cutting wood, which won’t be strong enough to cut through paving tiles.
What tools do I need?
- A circular saw (the blade should have a diamond tip)
- Mounting stand with adjustable sides
- Rubber mallet
- Safety glasses
- Safety gloves
- Tape measure
- Pencil or chalk
Step 1 – Install the work stand
Set up the work stand and make sure the sides are adjusted to the length of the paver you will be working with.
Step 2 – Measure the length of the pavers
Use a tape measure to measure the space where you will need to install the paving stones, and then use a chalk or pencil to mark lines on the paving stones where you need to cut them.
Tip: Dip the tiles in a small amount of water to reduce dust – this will ensure greater accuracy when cutting the paving stones.
Step 3 – Cut the tiles with the saw
Secure the paving slabs to the work post and cut through them with the saw, guided by the lines with chalk or a pencil. Depending on its thickness, you may have to lift the blade and cut through just a small portion of the tile, then flip it over and repeat.
Step 4 – Laying the tiles
Place the tiles in the desired space and tap them firmly with a rubber mallet.
Cutting paving tiles with a block chopper
Also known as a guillotine or block cutter, the block and plate splitter works faster than a saw and produces no dust.
This means that it is often the preferred method of getting the job done. However, if this is your first time working with this tool, practice, as it requires a certain level of skill.
What tools do I need?
- Block splitter
- Rubber mallet
- Safety glasses
- Safety gloves
- Measuring tape
- Pencil or chalk
Step 1: Set up the chopper
Choose a place with a level and stable surface to set up the chopper. Make sure you have enough room around you.
Step 2 – Measure the length of the tiles
Use a tape measure to estimate the size of the space where you will need to install it. Use chalk or pencil to mark lines on the tile where you need to cut it.
Step 3 – Cut the tile
Lift the handle of the cleaver and insert the paving stone, positioning it so that the blade strikes the block in the correct position. Lower the handle until the blade cuts through the block.
Step 4 – Paving in place
As with the other methods, once the tiles are cut, it’s time to place them in the space and tap with a rubber mallet to level them.
How do I cut paving tiles?
Cutting paving tiles using any of the three methods listed above is a relatively easy way to achieve an even and straight garden path. It gets a little more complicated if you want a curved effect.
A curved edge or circle can give a new dimension to your outdoor space, but you will need to cut the paving stones at an angle to get the right edge. Although you can use a chisel and hammer to do this, you might get a more precise cut with power tools.
Using a circular saw. Mark out the paver as described in all of the methods described above, and set it on the supports, making sure that the marked area is above the space between the posts.
Use a masonry knife to cut along the marked line – this may take several tries, depending on the thickness of the bricks. It takes practice to create a perfect curve, but if you find that there are burrs or uneven edges left after cutting, you can saw them off with a rough metal file or grind them off with a grinding wheel. The result is a curved paving stone that will fit perfectly into your garden design.
