Cutting concrete blocks with a circular saw is not as hard as you think, but it does require some specific safety precautions. You will need to wear protective clothing and eye protection and follow the directions of the circular saw manufacturer.
Materials Needed To Cut Concrete Blocks:
- Circular saw
- Protective clothing
- Eye protection
- Tape measure
- Square
- Chisel
- Hammer
Procedure:
Once you have done this, use these steps to cut your next block:
Step 1:
Mark the cut by holding the triangle of the masonry blade on top of your block, lining up with the edge of the block. Extend this angle down over all four sides of the block. Draw a straight line connecting these angles. This is where you will cut your concrete blocks.
Step 2:
Put on your safety glasses and ear protection. Sometimes, you can hear the blade “scream” before it breaks at a cut, so if this happens, stop immediately and check the blade for any rocks or other materials. Proceed to step 3 when you are ready to make your cut.
Step 3:
Make sure your circular saw is running in forward (clockwise) mode. Begin cutting the block by putting the saw blade on your line and pressing down, just hard enough that you can still push forward on it with some resistance. Gradually increase the pressure as you continue to cut through the block.
Step 4:
When your circular saw has made a complete pass all around the outside of the concrete block, stop and release the pressure. Do not try to “finish” the cut by going back over it; you may damage the blade or the block.
Step 5:
Move your block out of the way and check to see if your cut is clean. If not, use a chisel and hammer to clean it up.
Benefits of Cutting Concrete Blocks With A Circular Saw:
There are several benefits to cutting concrete blocks with a circular saw:
1. It is a faster way to cut blocks than using a hammer and chisel.
2. You can make more precise cuts with a circular saw than you can with a chisel.
3. You don’t have to worry about damaging the block or your blade in a concrete block cutting machine.
4. You can cut through a concrete block, which would damage a diamond blade in a masonry saw. However, you should make sure the circular saw is not running in reverse (counter-clockwise) mode when you are making your cut because it could be damaged by doing so.
5. You can cut blocks in any shape or size that you want, which is not possible with a masonry saw.
How To Use The Right Blade On Your Circular Saw?
When you are cutting concrete blocks, you will need to use a diamond blade. There are several different types of diamond blades on the market, and it can be confusing to know which one to choose. The best way to choose the right blade is to match the blade’s characteristics with the job you are going to do.
There Are Two Main Types Of Diamond Blades:
– Continuous Rim Blades:
These are the most commonly used blades for cutting concrete blocks. They have a continuous, unbroken blade that is good for making straight cuts.
– Segmented Rim Blades:
These blades have several small, sharp pieces of diamond that are good for cutting curves and other intricate shapes.
When choosing a diamond blade, you should also consider the following factors:
– The Size Of The Blade:
The larger the blade, the thicker the block you can cut.
– The Type Of Concrete:
If you are cutting a block that is made from reinforced concrete, you will need a tougher blade than if you are cutting a standard concrete block.
– The Speed Of The Blade:
The faster the blade spins, the smoother the cut will be.
– The Type Of Saw:
Not all diamond blades are compatible with all types of circular saws. Make sure to check the specifications of the blade before you purchase it.
Tips And Tricks:
- When you’re cutting a concrete block, draw both lines for the inside and outside cut, then connect them. The blade will follow your line on the inside of the blocks where it’s safe to cut.
- You can also use a diamond blade in an angle grinder if you have one available.
- Remember that if the circular saw starts to make more noise than usual, or if you hear a “scream” before it breaks at a cut, stop immediately and check the blade for any rocks or other materials. Proceed to step 3 when you are ready to make your cut.
- When cutting concrete blocks with a circular saw, keep in mind that the blade will be hot. Allow it to cool down before changing the blade or putting the saw away.
Cautions:
When cutting concrete blocks with a circular saw, there are several safety precautions you need to take:
1. Always wear protective clothing, including a long-sleeved shirt, pants, and closed-toe shoes.
2. Make sure your hair is tied back and your clothing is not loose or flowing.
3. Always wear safety glasses and ear protection.
4. Make sure the blade is sharp and in good condition before you begin cutting.
5. Do not try to cut concrete blocks that are wet – it will damage your blade.
6. Do not try to cut more than one block at a time.
7. Only cut blocks that are one layer thick.
8. Make sure your cut is straight down before you begin cutting, or the concrete block could break in half while you are cutting it.
9. Move anything that might get in your way out of the area where you will be making your cut before beginning to cut the blocks. Also make sure no children or pets are in the area.
10. Be aware of your surroundings and make sure no one is walking behind you while you are cutting the blocks.
11. Always keep the saw blade guard in place while you are cutting.
12. When you are finished cutting, unplug the circular saw and put it away safely.
That’s all there is to it! Cutting concrete blocks with a circular saw is not as hard as it seems, but be sure to take all the necessary safety precautions. Once you have completed a few cuts, you will be an expert!
