Precision makes for a stunning outcome
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.
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.
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.
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.
