How to Cut Concrete Blocks with Circular Saw

Most people have a love-hate relationship with the concrete blocks when it comes to cutting them.  Since concrete blocks are made with gravel and cement, the blocks are oftentimes extremely hard. But that doesn’t mean they have to tough to cut.

With the right tool, you can cut the concrete blocks into your desired shape and size with ease. One such tool is a circular saw. It performs a myriad of jobs and cutting concrete blocks in one of them.

In today’s DIY tutorial, I am going to describe how to cut concrete blocks with circular saw most conveniently and straightforwardly.

So, are you ready?

Circular Saw Blades

Circular saw is a unique power saw that can hold a variety of cutting blades for a different purpose. And even for concrete cuts, the saw has many types of modules. You can choose from these variations depending on your project.

The most common circular saw blades used to cut concrete blocks are:

• Masonry abrasive blade: This blade is widely available, inexpensive, and can easily cut through stucco, concrete blocks, and asphalt. It is capable of only shallow cuts and isn’t fast also.
• Diamond blade for dry-cutting: The blade works best on deep cuts without getting overheated. It is preferable for series cuts and has a toothed rim.
• Diamond blade for wet-cutting: The module comes with a continuous perimeter, whereas the blade can be both toothed or smooth. It uses water while cutting that acts as a lubricating agent to make the cut fast and cool down the blade. For large cutting projects, this blade is famous worldwide.

How to Cut Concrete Blocks with Circular Saw – 5 Easy Steps

Once you are ready with the proper circular saw blade after assessing your project needs, it’s time to move on the main cutting steps.

In this DIY cutting project, we are using a conventional masonry abrasive diamond blade for the concrete.

Things You Will Require:

1. Wrench
2. Circular saw masonry diamond blade
3. Measuring tape
4. Chalk
5. Hammer

Step 1: Setting Up the Masonry Blade

At first, you will need to replace the standard blade of your circular saw with the diamond masonry blade. The replacement process may slightly vary from one saw to another, and so, you should go through the saw user manual for proper guidance.

In general, you will have to remove the bolts and washer at first to remove the old blade and then replace it with the new diamond masonry blade. Then use a screwdriver to tighten the washer and bolts. Make sure the bolts hold the new blade securely.

Step 2: Adjusting the Depth

Now you will need to adjust the depth of the blade approximately in ¼ inches or according to your desired cutting thickness. You can change the depth with the lever and knob located at the side of the circular saw. However, the adjustment may vary from one model to another.

We prefer the ¼” shallow cut to prevent blade’s abrasion and kick.

Step 3: Marking the Cut Area

This is extremely crucial since you will run the circular saw blade on this exact outline. So, select the area where you will perform the cut on the concrete block. Take a measurement tape and caulk to outline the block.

Remember that the outline must be straight and accurate. Otherwise, you may waste the block with inaccurate cuts.

Step 4: Making the 1^st Cut

Before you move on to the cutting procedure, drip the concrete block into the water so that dust will reduce and also make the cutting easy.

Now turn on the circular saw and carefully bring it down on the outline and start cutting. You will need to move the saw blade back and forth to cut through the desired depth. You will have to make sure that the circular saw cuts straight through the line in the opposite direction.

Step 5: Parting the Concrete Blocks

Once you have cut through the entire concrete block with a constant ¼ inches depth, you will require to part the boulders along the scoreline. Use a hammer and wrench to section right through the scoreline. Make sure you don’t use much power to damage the block.

That’s it- you have successfully cut the concrete blocks using a circular saw.

Precautionary Measurements During the Cutting Session

1. Don’t enforce the blade; instead, allow the weight of the saw does the cutting job for you.

2. If you are using a dry-cut blade, turn it off for every 3-45 seconds so that it cools down and prevent overheating.

3. For a wet and masonry blade, you must use water to lubricate and cool down the blade.

4. The blade should never be twisted.

5. Always wear protective gear such as goggles and gloves to safeguard you from flying particles.

Conclusion

The cutting process of a concrete block with a circular saw is exceptionally straightforward. Also, it doesn’t require much gear and time. Hence, with some guts and determination, you can easily do the job at home.

And in this regard, our detailed guideline on how to cut concrete blocks with circular saw will come helpful for you.

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