How to cut Sandstone Paving?

April 21, 2022

When it comes to prepping your garden for a new patio, you may consider different designs that require your paving to be cut. But how do you cut sandstone paving?

To cut sandstone paving, carefully cut across a straight pencil line using a handheld circular power saw. Use a dust suppression system when needed.

You will need:

Tape Measure (For a straight edge and measuring)
Pencil (to mark the straight lines)
Steel / Aluminium Ruler
Workbench (Wood is preferable)
C-Clamps
Power Saw (Diamond tipped is best)
Diamond-tipped Blade
Rubber Mallet

To start, set the handheld circular power saw to the correct depth and make sure that the blade is sharp and in good condition.

Mark out the line that you need to cut with a chalk line or felt-tip pen, before starting to cut. To avoid the blade slipping, clamp the sandstone paving patio slab down onto a stable surface.

Cut along the line on the sandstone slowly and steadily, making sure that the blade does not overheat. Allow the saw to do the work, and don't apply too much pressure. When you reach the end of the cut, switch off the power saw and let it cool down before removing the cut piece of sandstone paving.

Make sure to carefully cut along the cut line; the slower you go, the more likely you are to cut in a straight line. Gently apply pressure with the power saw to create a nice deep cut.

Steps to use a power saw to cut sandstone paving

Mark out the line to be cut.
Clamp the sandstone slab down onto a stable surface.
Cut along the line slowly and steadily, letting the saw do the work.
Switch off the power saw and allow it to cool before removing the cut piece of sandstone paving.

When cutting sandstone paving, always wear safety goggles and a dust mask to protect your eyes and lungs from the debris. Also, make sure to wear gloves to avoid blisters. Finally, always clean up any debris after cutting to avoid accidents.

Can porcelain paving be cut?

Porcelain Paving, Sandstone, Granite, Limestone, and even setts and cobbles can all be cut using a diamond-tipped blade power saw. We have a full guide here on cutting porcelain paving.

What is a diamond blade?

A diamond blade is a power saw blade that is coated with industrial diamonds. This makes the blade extremely hard and durable, able to cut through even the hardest paving slabs.

How to avoid uneven edges?

If you want to avoid creating an uneven edge, start the cut in the middle of the slab. Use a guide, such as a straight edge or another paving slab, to help you keep the power saw steady and go along the marked line. Work from the middle of the slab outwards to each end.

Can I use an angle grinder to cut sandstone paving?

No, we do not recommend using an angle grinder to cut sandstone paving. This is because an angle grinder will create a lot of dust and debris, which can be dangerous. It can also cause the sandstone to crack or chip.

How to avoid dust clouds when cutting paving?

When cutting paving, always wear safety goggles and a dust mask to protect your eyes and lungs from the debris. We would also recommend some form of dust suppression system such as a water pump which can be controlled by a second person. You should avoid dry cutting where possible.

Use a Slab Splitter

Slab splitters are suitable for cutting paving slabs, and to cut sandstone paving in particular, slab splitters come in a variety of configurations, including electric and hydraulic models.

You'll also need a tape measure, chalk, and a rubber mallet when using a slab splitter.

Make sure the machine is on a level surface and that you have enough room to work.

Measure the area where the slab will go and mark it with chalk.

Lift the slab splitter's handle and place the slab inside, with the chalk line positioned at the point to be cut.

Lower the handle, applying force to split the paving slab.