A reciprocating saw is an excellent tool for cutting through brick. Before you begin cutting, here are some things to remember.
A masonry blade is required to cut bricks with a reciprocating tool. Mark the area where you want to cut. Next, adjust the depth of the blade. Finally, you will need to cut the brick through its entire thickness.
This blog will cover the basics of using a reciprocating saw to cut brick, and some tips to get the best results. If you’re ready to get started, continue reading!
Step By Step Instructions On How To Cut Brick With A Reciprocating Saw
These are the steps you need to take in order to cut bricks with your saw.
1 Prepare
Before you start any other tasks, ensure that the saw is running at its slowest speed. This will reduce heat buildup and wear on the blade, as you are cutting through brick.
If it is a rainy day, allow the bricks to dry for a few days before cutting them. This will ensure that they don’t absorb water from the atmosphere.
To save time when you’re cutting bricks, get a set of metal cutting knives.
2 Mark Your Cut Line
Mark where you want to cut your bricks. You will need a straight piece or wood and a marker to mark the area where you want to cut your bricks.
When you draw this line, ensure that it is at least 1/10cm from any stone adjacent to it. This includes surrounding mortar lines. This will ensure a smooth cut when your saw blade passes through.
You should also ensure that the lines are parallel to the brick you’re cutting through. This will ensure an even cut.
3 Use A Hammer And Chisel To Make Hollow Cuts
If your bricks become hollow after repeated freeze/thaw cycles, you will need to use a chisel or hammer along with your saw.
After you have marked where your cuts will go, use lighter taps to push against the mortar joints.
Slowly increase the strength of your strikes until enough space is available for your reciprocating saw’s blade to pass through.
4) Cut Stone By Stone
Once everything is marked, you can start to cut stone by stone. Before you start cutting with your blade, make sure to slowly push it through each pass until it reaches about half-way.
This will remove any dust or stone that might have accumulated so that your blade does not get stuck on anything.
Safety Tips
Here are some safety tips
1 Wear Protective Equipment
Protective equipment is essential when you are cutting bricks with a reciprocatingsaw. While gloves and goggles are a must, earplugs and earmuffs can also be helpful.
If you don’t have proper eye protection, it will take you longer to complete cutting brick.
2 Cutting Brick Is Messy
This is because of the nature of your job (cutting through hundreds upon hundreds of pounds) and you shouldn’t do it outside unless there’s absolutely no chance of rain.
Dust can get everywhere so plan for cleanup.
3) Don’t Overtax Your Saw
It can be tempting, depending on how long your cut is and what you are cutting through it, to buy a saw with a higher power than you really need.
This can lead to problems, however, because it makes it more difficult to guide the blade and avoid breaking it or wearing down your motor quicker than necessary.
4) Do Not Forge Your Blade
This can happen when someone tries to make too many cuts at once. The problem is likely to be with your saw’s ability to make small cuts or refuses even to move.
This is usually a sign that the blade is not cutting smoothly because of a large knot. You should stop what you are doing and replace the problem part.
5) Move In Straight
For most reciprocating saws, you should move in straight and even cuts. This is the best way to start.
It is more likely that your top blade will break or catch on something if you make an angle cut.
6) Avoid Breaking Bricks
You might have the same problem if you are working on a job that involves cutting through damaged or broken bricks. You can’t always tell if a brick is in poor shape until it has been cut.
Stop if your blade does not cut or move smoothly.
Conclusion:
This article will show you how to use a reciprocating saw to cut brick. I explained how to make straight cuts and stressed the importance of choosing the right blade.
Finally, I shared some tips to help you avoid making common mistakes with this saw. Are you feeling confident? Try it! Always wear safety gear when working near electrical wires.
FAQs:
Which Type Of Blade Should You Use To Cut Bricks With A Reciprocatingsaw?
A general-purpose blade will be required with coarse teeth.
How Can You Cut Bricks Without Damaging Them?
Avoiding bricks by starting small and becoming familiar with how your saw works, before you tackle anything larger.
Are There Any Common Mistakes Made When Cutting Bricks With A Reciprocating Saw.
People make common mistakes when cutting brick with a reciprocatingsaw. They don’t have the right protective gear, especially in dusty environments.
Another error is to use a blunt blade that isn’t sharp enough for the job.
A hammer action is also not recommended for this type job, as it could cause damage to the blade.
The last mistake is to make too many cuts at once. This increases the chance of your saw breaking down or wearing out faster than you need.
