Reduce Your Brick Paver Cutting Time By 50%+

The following is a way that will allow you save at least 50% of your time while cutting the body of your patio or driveway.:

Most contractors will lay the majority of the body of the patio, then lay the soldier course and then cut pavers individually to fit in between the two. It's the way I started laying pavers and the way most people learn. If all you have is a table saw then it is the only way.

If you use a handheld cutoff saw then there is an easier way. Lay the body of the patio/walkway/driveway and overlay to where you plan on the soldier course to lay. Next mark out on the body of the pavers where the inner edge of the soldier course will be. To provide a smooth line when a curve is desired use a narrow piece of pvc pipe and have a guy on each end holding it in place and 1 to make the mark. You can also use a long tent pole to get more distance and flexibility. Pave Tech also makes a kit that can be used as a one man show.

Once you have the mark made fire up the Stihl cut off saw and cut all along that line. Make a mental note of what 5cm will look like on your blade so you don't cut too much into the setting sand and base. When you finish the cut pull the scraps, lay your soldier course and that's it. All the tedious cuts at the table saw and trips to and from are saved.

On the smaller pieces you will still have to use the table saw to get good clean cuts. This method will burn through a diamond blade faster than normal since you will have it somewhat in the sand. The time savings will greatly outweigh this additional cost and you will become closer to your diamond blade salesman (I know, just you wanted). This method does take a little getting used to and should only be done with someone comfortable with handling a cutoff saw. Remember safety first.

Let me know if you have any comments, suggestions, or other feedback on this method. Please use the comments section below.