How to Cut into Concrete Paving Stones

When you are setting out to create a patio in your yard or making a pathway to or through a garden you will most likely use concrete paving stones. Concrete paving stones are versatile because they can be stained or painted to whatever color you like but they can also be cut to create any layout you prefer. Cutting a concrete paver is no easy task due to the thickness of concrete. It takes a lot of muscle, power, and time. Making mistakes can ruin more pavers than you would like. The article that follows will walk you through the procedure on how to easily and safely cut concrete paving stones.

Step 1 - Determine the Size

When you create your pathway or patio you need to know how much space you have and how many concrete stone pavers you will need. Once you know this you will need to measure each of the pavers to determine what, if anything, needs to be trimmed or cut from them. Use the measuring tape to determine the size but use a nail to etch the surface. Draw a line straight down to mark the area to cut. Make it as defined as possible so you can see it while you are cutting the concrete paving stones.

Step 2 - Prevent the Blade from Overheating

When you use a tile saw the blade can become very hot and can cause it to break along with damaging the paver. To prevent this you need to use water. The tile saw has a reservoir tank attached to it; fill it with cool water. As you are cutting the concrete paver stones the water pours over the stone washing it while keeping the blade cool. Always maintain a decent water level.

Step 3 - Cut the Concrete Paver Stones

Make sure you are wearing your safety glasses and gloves. The blade on a tile saw is not sharp but it is spinning quickly so it can still cut you. Place the first paver on the feed rail and then wet the top of the paver. This prevents chipping. Turn the tile saw on and push the paver toward it. You always want to push the paver slowly to create a smooth and even cut. It is imperative to also use the same pressure and rate of speed during the cut or else it will be uneven and sloppy. Once the concrete paving stones meet the blade you need to keep going and if the cut seems sluggish then apply more pressure. If the blade stops moving then turn the tile saw off and remove the paver. Wait a few seconds and turn it back on and once the blade comes to full speed you can continue the cut. Always try to keep the paver wet to assist in a decent cut.