Bricks come in different sizes. So to use it to fulfill your purpose, you may need to cut it to the right size, some part of brick at some point, sometimes at a slight angle.
Being able to cut bricks perfectly opens up many home improvement opportunities for DIYers. Ages ago, bricks were cut using hammers or cold chisels. Things have changed; now, we have different tools to do this job. An angle grinder is a tool that we can use with some knowledge to cut bricks, which has other great uses as well.
In this article, we will discuss the necessary steps you have to take for cutting bricks like a professional. After that, an angle grinder attached to a diamond cutting disc will be your go-to option as a DIY expert.
Is It Recommended to Cut Bricks with Grinder?
Yes, we certainly recommend using an angle grinder for cutting bricks. In fact, it is a convenient and affordable option for cutting such masonry materials. However, this requires the right size cutting disc with the grinder.
Some discs are so small that they cannot cut through those bricks in one pass. You may need to use a hammer to break the parts. Hence, it is crucial to use a large disc for cutting bricks.
Moreover, a grinder can cut bricks like a pro when you use the correct type of cutting disc. We prefer to use a diamond masonry cutting disc for this particular job. What’s more, debris blow-back in the grinder is crucial for this job.
What Size Angle Grinder Is Ideal for this Job?
You always have to use the correct size tool; when it is a matter of power tool, you have to be more cautious. If the instrument is too small for the project, it won’t perform as well as it should. It will waste your time as well.
Simultaneously, using a too large tool is likely to damage the material you work with. For cutting small bricks, 4.5-inch and 6-inch grinders would be good enough. A 4.5-inch grinder can cut 1 to 2 ½-inch deep into bricks.
However, angle grinders ranging from 7-inch to 9-inch are much more efficient in cutting larger bricks or brick walls. These are also suitable for heavier jobs. You can cut through larger bricks in one pass. So, if you are cutting plenty of bricks, a bigger size is recommended.
What is the Best Angle Grinder for Brick?
The role of the angle grinder you pick for cutting bricks is crucial. Earlier, a cold chisel and hammer were used to break the bricks. However, it requires many skills to cut bricks with those tools. Even experts did many trials and errors.
Thanks to new technology that makes the job easier. Let’s see our recommended angle grinders for cutting brick:
1. Metabo HPT G12SR4 Angle Grinder | 4-1/2-Inch
Metabo is a well-known brand. This Metabo HPT G12SR4 angle grinder is their best option for cutting bricks and other hard elements. The 6.2-amp motor of the grinder can produce 980W max power.
This powerful motor is capable of grinding jobs and cutting hard materials. It is protected from brick dust and debris. Despite being so powerful, the grinder weighs only 4lbs. Hence, this lightweight grinder offers greater control and flexibility.
Moreover, the grinder features a spindle lock for fast and easy disc changes. There you will see a switch on the left. It is a quick-off feature for added safety. Besides, the forward-canted, removable side handles offer added control.
You can use it for both sides, which is an excellent plus for right and left-handed users. Besides, the smaller grip can reduce fatigue. Overall, this Metabo HPT angle grinder can make your brick cutting job a breeze.
Benefits
- Compact design yet powerful
- Best for tough cutting and grinding jobs
- Added control and safety
- Lightweight
- Comfortable to hold
Drawbacks
- On/off switch is tricky to learn
Cut Bricks Easily Using the Angle Grinder – Step by Step Guideline
An angle grinder can cut through bricks to the size required for your project. Here is a step-by-step guideline for cutting bricks using an angle grinder quickly and safely.
1. Prepare a Work Area
It is always good to work in a suitable condition while using any power tools. When you are cutting bricks with a grinder, the tool will produce a lot of dust and debris. Make sure to work outdoor and away from your doors and windows.
Note: A dust shroud should be used with your grinder to avoid heavy dust, sand, and debris.
Instead of working on the ground surrounding bricks, you can cut on a workbench above the ground. Better if you take two sawhorses side by side and keep a piece of plywood in the middle.
Use this as your surface for cutting bricks. Also, you can use a non-slip under the bricks so that it doesn’t move. There is another simple way. Keep the two bricks side by side and place the brick to be cut between these two bricks.
2. Prepare Tools
Of course, the process requires various tools, including safety gear. Make sure you have the following tools and equipment:
- A 4 ½-inch angle grinder (4 ½ is recommended),
- Masonry/ Diamond Grinder disc for cutting bricks,
- Hammer
- Carpenter’s pencil/chalk marker
- Shop vacuum
Then, you must consider wearing safety gear to keep you protected. Although an angle grinder cannot take your life, it can give you severe injuries for a lifetime. Hence, make sure to wear the following protective gear before starting cutting.
- High-quality, thick hand gloves
- Safety goggles/a hard face mask
- Earplugs
- Dust mask
3. Use Best Angle Grinder Disc for Cut Brick
Having the best grinder disc can affect the result of the job. And, you need the correct type of disc for efficiently cutting bricks. You can either use a diamond cut-off blade or a 60 grit/80 grit masonry disc for the job.
Note that it is dangerous to use a disc that is not compatible with the size and speed of the grinder. We suggest doing a quick check before starting working. Attach the disc and plugin the grinder. Let the disc spin for a minute at maximum speed.
At this point, you can tell if the disk wobbles. Once you are sure that the disc size is suitable for the grinder, you can move on. You can consider the following discs for this job.
Here See dome Recommended Grinder Disc
a. DEWALT DW4725 Diamond Blade for Masonry
DEWALT DW4725 is a high-performance diamond blade best for cutting bricks, blocks, and other masonry materials. The blade includes a thinner kerf that enhances cutting speed while minimizing dust.
Moreover, it can cut at a constant depth at a faster rate. It makes the disc ideal for thinner and softer masonry materials. Above all, the grinder disc offers durability and improved materials removal.
b. S&R 9-Inch Diamond Grinding Disc
S&R is another top-rated manufacturer of diamond cutting discs. They manufacture this laser-welded diamond disc for universal use. It can cut through all building materials, including bricks, concrete, stone, masonry, etc.
The disc is equipped with quality steel cores and incredibly impact and temperature-resistant diamonds. A specially-developed diamond mixture is used in the diamond segments to make it durable and highly functional.
4. Mark Your Cut Line on Brick
So all you are equipped. Now time to measure the space where you want to set it. Get a straight edge and mark the estimation onto the brick using a pencil or chalk. Extend the line down the sides and opposite sides of the bricks.
5. Test the Angle Grinder before Final use
Plug the angle grinder in and start it. Allow the disc to spin for a while. If the disc does not wobble, it means the setup is correct. Your grinder is working with the proper disc attached to it. You can now move on to the next step.
6. Make the Cut
Hold the grinder at a 90° angle to the brick and turn on the switch. Allow it to run at full speed. Then, set the grinder close to the brick. Start cutting without applying too much pressure and let the grinder do its job.
After cutting to a certain depth on the front side of the brick, turn it to the other side to cut. You may not complete the cut in a single pass.
Don’t worry; you can make a second cut from the other side. Then, use a hammer to separate the partially cut brick. After separating the brick piece, you can smoothen any uneven surface with the grinder.
Few Alternative Ways of Brick Cutting
There are several ways to cut bricks. You can use the following tools to cut bricks:
- Circular saw – When attached to a masonry blade, it can perform clean cuts on brick and mortar. However, it tends to produce a considerable amount of debris.
- Masonry chisel and hammer – It’s a typical way to cut bricks. It takes time but offers greater control over the cuts.
- Reciprocating saw – If held firmly, it can cut straight lines. It is suitable for making plunge cuts in drywall but doesn’t work well on masonry walls.
- Multi-tool – It can perform plunge cuts.
Conclusion
There is no doubt that an angle grinder is the best option for cutting bricks than other tools. It would never disappoint you for sure. However, you need to make sure you are using the right cutting disc.
Besides, knowing how to cut bricks with an angle grinder will make your job easier. Always make sure to take safety precautions before turning on the grinder. Then, follow the guide and cut like a pro in no time.
Also Read
- Best Angle Grinder Disc For Paint Removal
- What Can I Do with an Angle Grinder?
- How To Remove Angle Grinder Disc
- How To Strip Paint From Metal Using Grinder
Leave a Reply