How to Cut Pavestone Retaining Wall Caps

Retaining wall caps rest on the retaining wall's top block layer and give the wall a finished look. When you install the caps, notice how each cap has only one smooth side. This works fine until you reach the corner, then you are left with an exposed smooth end that may extend further past the retaining wall than you like. A special tool, called a guillotine cutter, cuts the cap to the appropriate size and roughens up the smooth end. Rent a guillotine cutter at your local hardware store.

Tape measure
Chalk
Guillotine stone cutter

Instructions

- 1
  Measure the retaining wall from the last installed cap's end to the corner. Add the appropriate inches to the measurement to maintain the cap's overhang around the corner. Transfer this measurement to the pavestone cap and mark the cap with a pencil or chalk.
- 2
  Place the pavestone cap under the guillotine's blade. Line up the pencil or chalk line with the blade. Turn the guillotine's side handles until the pavestone is secured in place.
- 3
  Place one foot on the guillotine to stabilize it and grab the lever with both hands. Quickly pull down on the lever to split the pavestone cap along the line. Push the lever back up and remove the cut pavestone cap.

How to Lay Wire Fence

Stone Wall Types

Fences & Walls