Cutting concrete pavers is not difficult, but it does require special equipment and a certain level of skill to ensure that your hardscaping project turns out right. There are several methods for cutting. Read the article: Cutting Concrete Pavers: Overview for more general information. This article focuses on two methods which leave a rough edge to the cut paver:
- Hammer and Chisel
- Block or Paver Splitter
1. Hammer & Chisel
Hammer & chisel is the simplest and most inexpensive method for a few cuts. Simply score the paver along a cut line using sharp but light blows. By repeatedly tapping along the same cut line, the paver will eventually snap leaving a rough cut.
Advantages: Inexpensive, rough finish, ease of use.
Disadvantages: Slow, non-precise rough cuts, possible breakage.
2. Block Splitter
A block splitter is basically a large mechanical chisel or guillotine cutter. By using the leverage of a long handle, you can easily “snap” a paver, wall block or wall cap leaving a rough finished edge. Block splitters generally can snap material up to 6” thick. This is a great tool to use for creating corner wall blocks or caps where the cut side will be visible. Most hardscaping project contractors will use splitters when building walls to help create finished corner pieces.
Advantages: Ease of use, inexpensive to rent, attractive finishing tool, can cut on project.
Disadvantages: Non-precision cutting, must cut at least 2” to get “straight” cut.
It’s amazing that block splitters can snap material that’s 6″ thick because I imagine that takes a lot of force to do. I’m trying to build a new patio in my backyard out of pavers, but It’s going to need a few half-bricks. Maybe I should see about getting a block splitter to help me out with that.