Sometimes in hardscape, you will need to cut some pavers. These cuts can be very simple or very complex, depending on the needs of your design. Either way, knowing how to cut pavers and the right techniques involved is a must.

Today, we are going to provide you with a quick and simple guide on how to cut pavers using six different methods – starting from the simplest one to the most complex.

How to Cut Pavers: Preparation

Before embarking on our tutorial on how to cut pavers, there are four things you are always going to need, despite the method you’re going for:

• Protective Eyewear
  Always use protective eyewear. Even in the most controlled environments, working as carefully as possible, accidents can still happen. So make sure to always be careful and put on some protective glasses before doing anything else.
  
• Work Gloves
  When working with saws, you must have a good grip on everything. Work gloves will make sure you have that grip and will also protect your hands along the way. This is especially true when working with saws and water, as we will see ahead.
  
• Measuring Tape and Carpenter’s Pencil
  Basic things that you will always be going to need, in all six methods.
  
• Ear Protection
  Working with saws can get loud. Real loud. So make sure to have ear protection available.

How to Cut Pavers: 6 Different Methods

There are six ways how to cut pavers: two of these ways involve the use of a hammer, chisel, and brick splitters, and the remaining four concern the use of some kind of saw.

So let’s discuss each of these ways in depth, starting with the simplest one.

How to Cut Pavers With a Hammer and Chisel

The most basic method involves tools that probably everyone has at home. This method is indicated when you have only a few pavers to cut, and these cuts don’t have to be perfect. Also, you can only get straight cuts with this method, so keep that in mind.

Start by simply measuring the paver you wish to cut and using the carpenter’s pencil to mark that measurement. This mark should be done in a way where you circumvent the whole paver, making one continuous line in all four faces of it. After that, you score the paver using the chisel, giving a few gentle taps with the hammer.

With the score done, you can now place the chisel on the marker, as centered as possible, and swing the hammer on it a few times. In time, your paver will split right open, and there you go. You can then clean up the edges a little bit to give the paver a better finish.

How to Cut Pavers With a Brick Splitter

You will use the same technique as before to mark the pavers. In fact, this marking will be done exactly the same way for all methods.

A brick splitter, if you can get your hands on one, is probably the most practical method available, but it also only provides straight cuts. After marking the paver, simply place it on the brick splitter, apply some pressure on the handle, and you’re finished. The cuts are a lot easier and cleaner than the ones you get with a hammer and chisel.

How to Cut Pavers With a Circular Saw

Let’s talk about dry and wet cutting. They are pretty self-explanatory: dry cutting involves cutting a paver while it is dry, and wet cutting is when you add water to the paver as you cut it. Wet cutting prevents the formation of dust as you cut the pavers.

This is highly recommended, as this dust is extremely prejudicial to your health. If, for some reason, you have to cut dry, make sure to wear a protective mask.

Another thing to consider: circular saws were not made to cut pavers. It is a viable option, but be mindful that it can ruin your saw or your blade. If you decide to go for it, there’s no mystery – simply mark the stone as before, place the saw, and cut along the mark.

How to Cut Pavers With a Demolition Saw

Demolition saws are powerful tools used to cut walls and even iron. Most of them have a system where you can insert a hose with water for you to be able to cut wet. They are also portable since they work on gasoline. Exactly as before with the circular saw, mark your stone and cut along the mark using the demolition saw.

How to Cut Pavers With a Tile Saw

The tile saw is actually more of an entire table. It has a built-in system that wets the saw as you cut it. It is very simple to use, and since you can place your paver on a table and cut along a guided line, it is less likely you end up making a mistake.

How to Cut Pavers With a Masonry Saw

The masonry saw is “the” tool for this job. Some models even allow you to cut dry, as they have a vacuum system that eliminates the dust cloud as you cut it. If you have a complex project that involves the cutting of a lot of pavers, consider acquiring a masonry saw.

How to Choose the Right Method

At the end of the day, choosing the right method to cut pavers depends on various factors.

The size of the project is the main one. For larger projects, investing in or renting a high-quality saw may be more efficient and cost-effective. For smaller projects or occasional use, a less expensive tool such as an angle grinder may suffice.

Consider your budget constraints when selecting a cutting tool. While saws offer precision and efficiency, they can be costly to purchase or rent. Cheaper alternatives like angle grinders or manual tools may be more suitable for those on a tight budget.

It is also important to take into account how comfortable you are using the tools. Some of them, such as wet saws, require a certain level of skill and safety precautions. If you’re inexperienced with power tools, you may feel more comfortable using manual tools or seeking assistance from a professional.

Read as well: Paver maintenance – the most complete guide you’ll ever find

Secret Method on How to Cut Pavers: Professional Help

If you want to make sure everything is done correctly when cutting pavers, your best choice is still to hire professionals to help you with your project. They can cut all the pavers you need and plan your project so you don’t even need those cuts in the first place.

And if you happen to be around the Sarasota and Manatee counties, in FL, we here at S&S Pavers can gladly provide that help for you. We have more than 10 years of experience and are ready to give you all the help you require with your project! Give us a call right now at 941-773-3098 or email sales@sspavers.com for a free estimate.