Whether you're building a classic patio or elegant fireplace, you'll need to know how to cut brick safely and with precision. While whatever structure you’re building may take some keen DIY skills, cutting brick is a feasible project most handy homeowners can tackle without much experience. All you need is the right tools and a bit of determination to get the job done.
Preparing to Cut Brick
When cutting brick, expect to encounter a great deal of dust. Choose a work area that is spacious and well-ventilated. Set up a workbench or another stable surface to place the bricks during the cutting process. You don't want to leave any wiggle room for accidents, so ensure the work surface you use is sturdy.
Ensure you have all the safety gear you need. Wear safety glasses to protect your eyes from debris, ear protection to reduce noise, and a dust mask to prevent inhalation of dust particles.
Use a tape measure and a carpenter's pencil to measure and mark the specific length you want to cut along the brick's surface. The markings should be clear and visible, and encircle the perimeter of the brick. If you're having difficulty seeing a clear line, try using chalk or a marker instead.
When measuring, be as accurate as possible so that you won't have to spend time recutting brick as you're continuing your project. Whether you're creating a stylish brick walkway design or constructing a sturdy fireplace, you want the end result to look excellent.
Prepare to Cut
Place the brick on the workbench or stable surface and make sure it’s steady and won't move during the cutting process. If needed, use clamps to secure the brick in place.
Prepare the angle grinder by attaching a diamond-tipped masonry blade to it. Ensure the grinder is unplugged while attaching the blade and follow the manufacturer's instructions for proper installation. If you are not in proximity to an outlet, you may need an extension cord.
Adjust the cutting depth of the angle grinder's blade to slightly deeper than the thickness of the brick. This will help prevent damaging the tool and ensure a clean cut. Before starting the grinder, double-check the positioning of the brick and the cutting depth. To keep others safe from flying debris, ensure no one is close to the work area who shouldn't be, such as children or pets.
Turn on the angle grinder and carefully lower the spinning blade onto the marked line on the brick's surface. Apply gentle and steady pressure as you guide the grinder along the marked line and keep a firm grip on the angle grinder throughout the cutting process. Avoid excessive force, as letting the tool do the work will yield smoother cuts and better results.
Continue cutting along the marked line until you have fully traversed the brick. Take your time and ensure a smooth and even cut. Once you have finished cutting, inspect the cut edge of the brick to ensure it meets your requirements and is even and clean.
After turning off the angle grinder, give the blade some time to stop spinning completely before setting it down. Always handle the angle grinder with care and store it safely to reduce risk of injury from the equipment.
DIY vs Hiring a Pro
For homeowners skilled at using an angle grinder, circular saw, or similar equipment, tackling this task on your own is a great way to save room in your budget for the rest of your project. However, if you're not confident in your skills in this area, consider hiring a local masonry contractor. Masons typically charge between $40 and $75 per hour, with an initial minimum of $200 to $400 which will cover the first few hours of work.
If you have room in the budget and want to outsource this step, it might be worth the price to hire a professional to handle cutting the brick. Otherwise, you could save hundreds of dollars by DIYing it.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, all types of bricks can be cut without an angle grinder or saw. A common method to use is a hammer and a chisel. While this method is effective, you're more likely to get a cleaner cut more quickly by using a power tool.
When only a few cuts are needed, the traditional hammer and chisel method can do the trick. If more accurate and extensive cutting is required, such as for a large project, then an angle grinder or circular saw with a masonry blade should be utilized for increased efficiency.
If you aren't using a power tool to cut a brick, wetting it may help decrease dust. However, if you are using power equipment, it's best to leave the brick completely dry. Water around power tools can be dangerous and you'll want to take proper safety precautions while cutting brick.
