[sgilroy]

is it ok to cut angles on the tub saw freehand? I thought i could have one edge/corner touching the fence and then angle the piece as needed and push through?

if this is a bad idea what are my alternatives for making many,many angled cuts, as i have a circular border going around a tree (and the field pavers that will need to fit the circle as well).

As always, thanks for teh help.
Scott

[VoodooChile]

I would use a four inch angle grinder to etch the paver to the depth of the blade, about 2". Then I would complete the cut with a 12" cut-off saw. Depending on the radius, each paver might need to be removed from the field to enable the final cut.

[jshilan]

Originally Posted by sgilroy

is it ok to cut angles on the tub saw freehand? I thought i could have one edge/corner touching the fence and then angle the piece as needed and push through?

if this is a bad idea what are my alternatives for making many,many angled cuts, as i have a circular border going around a tree (and the field paver's that will need to fit the circle as well).
Scott

Yes this is a horrible idea. Ignore Nike on this one and "Just don't do it". It is not safe and fingers cut much easier than pavers do (especially wet ones).

The way they are typically cut is with a demolition saw which you can rent. Mark the cut on the pavers with chalk or a lumber crayon and cut them in place. Cut them slightly angled into the paver (slight back bevel) so they fit together better. Wear a mask and goggles

If you haven't started the project there are circle kits available that are designed to be laid in a radius. Beyond a 13' radius +/- you can switch to another paver (6x6 for example) since the pavers can then be installed at a slight angle to each other. You won't need to make any cuts and you can risk your fingers on something else like a wood chipper (those things will take your whole arm if you want)

Good luck and please be careful.

[sgilroy]

I recieved 2 exactly opposite suggestions for the following post...

"is it ok to cut angles on the tub saw freehand? I thought i could have one edge/corner touching the fence and then angle the piece as needed and push through?

if this is a bad idea what are my alternatives for making many,many angled cuts, as i have a circular border going around a tree (and the field pavers that will need to fit the circle as well)."

I could use more input to decide what to rent for this task. One person replied he would first score with an angle grinder and then cut through with the cutoff saw. Another person replied absolutely do not cut with the tubsaw, use a demo saw. anyone else want to provide their suggestions, it would be greatly appreciated.

thanks,
Scott

[HRLand]

We do all our cutting on the wet/tub saw just the way you described. We'll mark everythig out on the ground then cut them individually. Curved soldier course pieces are marked and cut one by one. We've tried the demo saw/cut in place method and it works well but I can't stand seeing all that dust everywhere.

[Fine Edge]

I've cut 1000's of pavers with a tub saw and have angle cuts on every job.
I hold the edges of the paver and rip right through them.
Of course, my saw has a foot pedal so I can use both hands to steady the paver.
I don't know why someone would say to absolutely do not cut with the tub saw, they are made for that type of work.
I don't know if I would trust just one hand holding the paver even with an edge resting against the fence.
There's just too much power in most of the bigger saws and I value my fingers and hands.
It just depends on what type of saw you have and how comfortable you feel with it.

Just like with any tool that you use on a constant basis, you can make it do tricks that most people wouldn't try.

[jshilan]

In my defense, and to add some clarification to my post, I want say a few things. Tub saws are great for cutting pavers with curves and angles but not the way you described using it. Also, since you are a homeowner, and don't do this for a living, I wouldn't suggest testing the limits of the saw.

As HRL correctly pointed out, the demo saw does create a lot of dust which is why I suggested wearing goggles and a mask.

SGilroy, FYI you should have added this post to your last thread instead of starting a new one so everyone can read what was previously written and help you determine what is the best and safest approach for you.

Can using a circle kit solve your problem and eliminate the need for cutting at all?

[Stonehenge]

sgilroy, I think you may be overthinking this. They are both saws, made to cut brick. Some companies use only one type. Some use only the other. Some use both evenly. Some use mostly one type and a little of the other type. Some use mostly the other type and a little of the first type. Get my point? Everyone does it a little differently.

Because you are a homeowner and possibly unaccustomed to working with a cutoff saw, my recommendation is the tub saw. Safer for you.

And Jody was right - the two threads should have just been one. And it was made so.