Cutting Basalite Blocks to Fit

Calculate the size you need the block to fit properly in your project. Take into account mortar or any gaps required for water to escape, if necessary, and deduct the amount from your block measurement.

Draw a line across the block on all sides so that you can clearly see the cut line. Chalk lines are ideal, but any clearly visible cut line will work.

Set up the table-mounted masonry saw. Follow all instructions included with the masonry saw, since the blades are not forgiving, and you just might need those fingers for other things in life. Make sure that the saw is on a flat and level surface to prevent excessive shaking or wobbling.

Connect your power cord to an electrical outlet that is designed to handle the voltage of the saw. Table saws can draw a lot of power, so be sure that the outlet isn't already in use by other tools. Never connect one extension cord into another to get the distance needed.

Place the block on the masonry table saw and align the blade with one chalk line. Connect the water line to the saw and put on your safety glasses and earplugs. Turn the water on and then the table saw and slowly make the cut. If the blade is large enough, you can make the cut in one pass. If the blade is smaller, however, such as a brick cutter would be, then cut along the line on all sides. Deal with one chalk line at a time. When you're done, turn off the saw and then the water. You will return to the saw later to make additional cuts if they are necessary.

Place your block on the ground and insert the tip of your block chisel in the groove if the saw blade was not large enough to cut through the entire block. Give the block a hard hit with a mashing hammer.

Place the block on the table-mounted masonry saw and make a cut along the next chalk line. Break the piece off with the block chisel and mashing hammer, as you did previously. You will now have a cleaner cut than what was possible with just the chisel and mashing hammer.