Home Garden

How to Cut Flagstone With a Grinder

Flagstone is a popular rock to use in creating paths and patios. Creating these yard pieces is like putting together a puzzle. Not all pieces of the flagstone are used in their raw state. Some have to be cut in order to fit with the rest of them. To do this, a grinder--specifically an angle grinder--is needed to make the cuts. This larger tool is not incredibly difficult to use and does not require any professional training.

Things You'll Need

  • Flagstone
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Instructions

    • 1

      Choose the correct disc for cutting flagstone. The rotation of this disc is powered by compressed air, gas or electricity. Choosing the right disc for your job is important to make a clean cut. A diamond disc will be appropriate for flagstone.

    • 2

      Pick the correct angle grinder to fit your diamond disc, how it is powered (electric, gas or compressed air) and how much power on which it runs. For cutting flagstone at home as part of a do-it-yourself project, a 4-inch disc is appropriate. Purchase an angle grinder meant for that size disc. They can run up to 7 inches when it comes to commercial and professional projects.

    • 3

      Connect the grinder to a power source. Plug it in if you are using electricity. Connect it to a compressor if using compressed air. Add gas to the tank of the grinder if running off of gasoline power.

    • 4

      Turn on the grinder. Turn the power switch to on for electric or compressed air models. A pull starter may exist on some gas-powered models.

    • 5

      Position the flagstone to be cut over a flat surface with a gap. The area to be cut should sit over the gap.

    • 6

      Hold the grinder with two hands. One hand should be placed on either side of the grinder. There is a handle on each side.

    • 7

      Moisten the flagstone and the disc of the grinder with water. This will reduce friction and overheating of the disc and stone. Keep a hose nearby to re-moisten as needed.

    • 8

      Begin your cut. Start on the end of the flagstone that is closest to you. Gently press the disc into the stone and run the disc towards the end of the stone that is farthest from you. This will complete your cut.

    • 9

      Turn off the grinder after completing all cuts. Unplug the grinder as necessary.