Best Way To Cut Landscape Blocks
Landscape blocks are commonly used for outdoor projects such as retaining walls, garden beds, and walkways. These blocks add an aesthetic value to the outdoor space and also serve to keep the soil and plants in place. However, sometimes you might need to cut the landscape blocks to fit into certain spaces. In this article, we will discuss the best way to cut landscape blocks.
Types of Landscape Blocks
Before we get to the cutting process, it is important to know the different types of landscape blocks. There are two main types of landscape blocks, namely concrete and natural stone. Concrete blocks are made from cement, sand, and gravel mixture while natural stone blocks are obtained from quarries. The type of block you have will determine the tool you will use for cutting.
Tools for Cutting Landscape Blocks
The tools you need for cutting landscape blocks depend on the type of block. For concrete blocks, you will need a circular saw, a chisel, and a hammer. On the other hand, for natural stone blocks, you will need a stone saw or a chisel and a hammer.
Cutting Process for Concrete Blocks
To cut concrete blocks, follow these steps:
1. Mark the cutting line using a straight edge and a pencil.
2. Wear safety glasses and a dust mask to protect yourself from the debris during cutting.
3. Using the circular saw, make shallow cuts along the line.
4. Next, use the chisel and hammer to make deep cuts along the line.
5. Tap the chisel gently along the line until the block breaks.
Cutting Process for Natural Stone Blocks
To cut natural stone blocks, follow these steps:
1. Mark the cutting line using a straight edge and a pencil.
2. Wear safety glasses and a dust mask to protect yourself from the debris during cutting.
3. Using the stone saw, follow the line and make the cut.
4. If you don't have a stone saw, use a chisel and a hammer to make shallow cuts along the line.
5. Then, tap the chisel gently along the line until the block breaks.
Cutting Curves
Sometimes, you might need to cut landscape blocks into curved shapes for a more aesthetic look. To cut curves, use a diamond-bladed wet saw for concrete blocks, or a carbide chisel for natural stone blocks. Make shallow cuts along the curve and use a hammer and chisel to remove the excess.
Final Recommendations
Cutting landscape blocks requires safety precautions, such as wearing protective gear and avoiding cuts that could damage the block. Additionally, practice makes perfect, so don't hesitate to ask for help or advice from professionals in your area. Finally, remember to purchase high-quality blocks that will not chip or break easily during the cutting process.
Conclusion
If you are looking for an easy way to enhance your outdoor space, landscape blocks are the way to go. However, sometimes you might need to customize the blocks by cutting them into smaller pieces or curved shapes. The key to cutting landscape blocks is using the right tools and following the right process. With these tips, you should be able to produce beautiful landscape designs.
