Okay, so I had this project where I needed to build a small fire pit in my backyard. I’d picked up some fire bricks a while back, but I quickly realized I needed to cut them down to size. I’d never done this before, so it was a bit of a learning experience. Let me tell you how it went!
Getting Started: Tools and Safety
First things first, I needed to figure out what tools I needed. I did a little research (aka, watched a couple of YouTube videos) and found out a few ways about how I cut them. At first I realized I didn’t have any fancy power tools so I might try what I had.
I gathered my stuff:
- Fire bricks (obviously!)
- A hammer.
- A wide brick chisel.
- Safety glasses
- Gloves
- A marker
- A straight edge
Safety first! I put on my safety glasses and gloves. No way was I getting brick dust in my eyes or chipping a nail.
Marking and Scoring
Next, I used the straight edge and marker to draw a line where I wanted to cut the brick. I made sure to mark all the way around the brick, so I had a guide from every angle.
Then, I placed the brick on a soft surface, think a patch of grass or some sand. This helps to cushion the brick and prevent it from breaking unevenly. I took my brick chisel and positioned it on the line I’d marked. With a firm grip on the chisel, I gave it a good whack with the hammer.
I went all the way around the brick, scoring along the line,I didn’t try to break it in one go. It’s all about scoring it first. The idea is to create a weak point so the brick breaks cleanly. It’s kind of like cutting glass, but with more, you know, force.
The Big Break
I kept scoring, going around and around, deepening the groove with each pass. After I was done all sides. Then, I give it a solid tap and I did it! My fire brick was cutted successfully!
Cleaning Up
After cutting all bricks that I need, I used the chisel to knock off any little jagged bits. I wanted a nice, clean edge for my fire pit.
And that was it! I was surprised at how (relatively) easy it was. It definitely took some elbow grease, and my arms were a bit sore the next day, but I got the job done. Now I’ve got a pile of perfectly sized fire bricks, ready for my fire pit project. It’s a pretty good feeling to do something yourself, even if it’s just cutting some bricks!