It can seem intimidating to cut any type of brick or stone. You might feel overwhelmed if you add fire to the name. It is far from true. The question of how to make firebrick is easy to answer with a little knowledge and a few tools that are readily available.
We will cover all you need to know about how to cut firebrick so that you can make your masonry projects more impressive without the assistance of professionals.
What You’ll Need
We’ll be covering both the traditional way of doing it and a more powerful tool-centric version. Woo! You won’t need any tools in either case.
You only need this if you want to go the old-fashioned way
- Masonry chisel
- A short sledgehammer is a good choice, but any hammer can be used in an emergency.
- Safety goggles
- Mask for the face
- Tape measure or ruler
- Chalk
A saw is a great tool for precise cuts. You will need your trusted miter saw in this instance, rather than a masonry tool and a short sledgehammer.
Step 1: Measurement
Measure your brick accurately to ensure that you can cut it perfectly. This is the first, and perhaps most important step. You will need to measure the exact area you want to cut with a ruler or tape measure. Next, use chalk to mark where you’ll be cutting. This is especially important if you’re using a saw for your cut.
Step II: Scoring The Brick
You can skip to step IIA if you’re going to use a saw to cut the brick. If you’re going to be using a saw to cut your brick, skip to step IIA. However, if you plan to use a hammer or chisel to break it, you will need to score the brick all around before you get started.
You will first need to put on your gloves. Gloves not only protect your hands but also limit vibrations from the chisel when you strike it with a hammer. This greatly reduces hand fatigue.
Start by marking the brick on the side that you want to score. Place the brick on a level, flat surface. Place the chisel on top of the brick and lightly strike it with the hammer. Continue doing this until there is a visible mark in the brick.
This process should be repeated on all four sides. The brick’s outer surface will be cracked by scoring it. This will allow you to achieve a more consistent break in your firebrick.
Step 3: Breaking The Brick
After the brick has been scored you can swing to break it. You don’t have to swing for fences. You don’t have to swing for the fences. Let the hammer do its work and make sure you follow through with all your swings in order to allow the energy of the hammer transfer to the brick and chisel.
Make sure that you are contacting the handle of the chisel with every swing of your hammer. The brick will eventually break down exactly where you want.
Firebrick is more difficult than regular masonry bricks to break. You can always try again if you have trouble breaking the brick.
Step IIA: Sawing Through The Brick
A saw is the best way to ensure a precise cut for your project. If you have to make angled cuts, a saw is the best way to cut firebrick. It is very simple to cut firebrick using a mitersaw. This is also easier than breaking bricks by hand, especially when you have several bricks to cut.
You might want to soak your brick in water for at least two minutes before you cut. This will dramatically reduce brick dust and is especially useful if you are cutting indoors. Allow the bricks to dry for five minutes before cutting.
This job can be done quickly with a variety of saws. No matter what saw you choose to use, it is important that you use a Masonry blade for your cutting. Masonry blades have been specifically designed to cut brickwork.
Take your brick and place it on top of the fence. Next, cut the brick.
The Final Word
Although it might seem daunting at first, cutting firebrick is very easy. Masons have used a hammer, chisel and chisel to cut their firebrick for centuries. Modern craftsmen prefer to use a saw to cut their firebrick. These tips will help you achieve amazing results with your next project, regardless of the method you choose.
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