Concrete blocks - Advice on best cutting method

[EdF_uk]

Hi everyone,

I’m getting close to laying the blocks for my wall but first I need to cut some of them to size. Can someone tell what the best method is to achieve this? I’ve seen there is a disc cutter or a block splitter or a hammer and masonry chisel. I need to cut around 20 or so blocks so the chisel might be a bit time consuming?

The block size is 440 x 215 x 140.

Any advice would be appreciated.

Thanks,

Ed

 

[^woody^]

Hammer and 4" bolster chisel and about 5 seconds per block

 

[Charlie George]

If it's the hollow ones you are using, you would be better using a disc cutter.

 

[noseall]

Hammer and 4" bolster chisel and about 5 seconds per block

Swell. Can you cut me 10 at 20mm each please? Those 675mm (brick) returns play havoc with the perp's.

 

[oldbutnotdead]

9" grinder and a diamond disc. And some dust suppression

 

[^woody^]

Swell. Can you cut me 10 at 20mm each please? Those 675mm (brick) returns play havoc with the perp's.

No, but I can advise you on better setting out.

 

[noseall]

No, but I can advise you on better setting out.

A three brick outer return always works a full block internally with a massive perp (or slithers) or just more inevitable cutting.

It doesn't help that blocks are now noticably smaller than they used to be.

 

[^woody^]

A three brick outer return always works a full block internally with a massive perp (or slithers) or just more inevitable cutting.

It doesn't help that blocks are now noticably smaller than they used to be.

Or two bigger cuts?

 

[noseall]

Or two bigger cuts?

As I said, just more unavoidable cutting.
The slither method is the most economical - laid internally of course. You would cut your halves as normal then use a slither and then the half or full block up to the jamb.

 

[noseall]

You do need an angle grinder though.

 

[EdF_uk]

If it's the hollow ones you are using, you would be better using a disc cutter.

No it’s the solid blocks that need cutting. None of the hollow blocks need cutting thankfully.

 

[John D v2.0]

Concrete blocks dense, for a raised bed.
I used a small angle grinder to score a line on the front and back then a wide cold chisel and a couple of whacks, works well for half and 1/3.
The little bit I had to cut off the end needed a bit more tidying up with a chisel.
Not the quickest but it works for someone with no experience.

 

[EdF_uk]

Thanks guys. I've decided I'm going with the Hammer and Bolster since I've already got these and I've now watched copious youtube videos. They make it look so easy!

On another note - regarding concrete (which is coming on Thursday) I have a few areas which I've shuttered using plywood. Although not essential I'd like to be able to remove the wood if possible. Can anyone recommend a release agent?

Cheers,

Ed

 

[John D v2.0]

I have a few areas which I've shuttered using plywood. Although not essential I'd like to be able to remove the wood if possible. Can anyone recommend a release agent?

normally I just use the empty ballast (plastic) bag as a liner and if necessary hit it with a hammer the a day or two later. I'm sure you're supposed to leave it a week or something though

 

[mrrusty]

Bolster is quickest, but for slithers this is a great tool https://www.screwfix.com/p/evolutio...O_89hpSBsGDo3YQI3BRoCyzMQAvD_BwE&gclsrc=aw.ds

good for paving as well