Stone Cutters

About Stone Cutters

Stone cutters are specialised power tools designed to cut through concrete, stone, brick, masonry, and other hard materials with precision and efficiency. These robust machines use diamond-tipped or abrasive cutting discs rotating at high speeds to slice through tough materials that would quickly blunt standard cutting tools. Whether you're cutting paving slabs, creating chases in concrete walls, or trimming brickwork on site, a quality stone cutter delivers clean, accurate cuts whilst minimising dust and vibration.

Available in various sizes from compact 125mm handheld models to substantial 355mm floor-standing units, stone cutters are essential equipment for construction professionals and serious DIY enthusiasts. Modern stone cutters incorporate water-cooling systems to reduce dust, extend blade life, and prevent overheating during prolonged cutting operations. The range includes both portable handheld cutters for versatility on site and larger bench-mounted saws for workshop use where precision and repeatability are paramount.

Leading manufacturers like Makita produce stone cutters engineered to withstand the demanding conditions of construction sites whilst delivering consistent performance. Whether you're working with natural stone, concrete blocks, or fired clay products, selecting the appropriate disc diameter and motor power ensures you achieve professional results efficiently and safely.

Jargon Buster

Diamond Blade

A cutting disc with industrial diamonds bonded to the edge, designed specifically for cutting hard materials like concrete and stone. Diamond blades don't actually cut but grind through material, offering superior longevity compared to abrasive discs.

Wet Cutting

A cutting method that uses water to cool the blade and suppress dust during operation. Water-fed systems significantly reduce airborne silica dust, extend blade life, and provide cleaner cuts with less chipping.

Cutting Depth

The maximum thickness of material the stone cutter can slice through in a single pass, typically measured in millimetres. This is determined by the blade diameter and the design of the machine's guard and base plate.

No-Load Speed (RPM)

The rotational speed of the blade measured in revolutions per minute when the tool is running without cutting. Higher RPM generally provides smoother cuts but must be matched to the blade specification.

Plunge Cut Capability

The ability to start a cut in the middle of a material rather than from an edge, useful for creating openings or chases. Not all stone cutters offer this feature.

Soft Start

A motor control feature that gradually increases the blade speed when starting, reducing kickback and protecting the motor from current surges. Particularly important on larger 305mm and 355mm models.

Who Uses Stone Cutters?

Stone cutters are essential tools for a wide range of trades and applications:

• Bricklayers and Stonemasons – cutting bricks, blocks, and natural stone to size for walls and structures
• Groundworkers and Landscapers – trimming paving slabs, kerb stones, and concrete edging
• Concrete Specialists – creating expansion joints, removing damaged sections, and cutting concrete slabs
• General Builders – chasing walls for pipework and cables, cutting lintels, and general masonry work
• Electricians and Plumbers – cutting chases in masonry walls for cable runs and pipe installations
• Demolition Contractors – controlled cutting and removal of concrete and masonry structures
• Tile and Stone Fixers – cutting large format tiles, natural stone, and porcelain pavers
• Renovation Specialists – creating openings in existing masonry walls for doors and windows
• DIY Enthusiasts – tackling ambitious home improvement projects involving hard landscaping or structural alterations

How to Choose the Right Stone Cutters

Disc Diameter: The blade size determines cutting capacity. A 125mm cutter suits lighter work and offers maximum portability, ideal for chasing walls or cutting smaller materials. Mid-range 305mm models balance power with manoeuvrability for general construction work, whilst 355mm stone saws provide maximum cutting depth for thick concrete and heavy-duty applications.

Motor Power: More powerful motors maintain blade speed under load and cut through dense materials more effectively. Consider the hardness and thickness of materials you'll typically encounter – harder stone and deeper cuts require more robust motors.

Wet or Dry Cutting: Wet-cutting systems are essential for prolonged use and where dust control is critical, particularly when cutting materials containing silica. HSE regulations require effective dust control measures when cutting masonry materials. Dry cutting may suffice for occasional light work in well-ventilated areas, but wet cutting significantly improves operator safety and blade longevity.

Portability Requirements: Handheld models offer flexibility for working at height or in confined spaces, whilst bench-mounted or wheeled floor saws provide stability and precision for repetitive cuts or workshop applications. Consider your typical working environment and whether you'll need to transport the tool between sites.

Cutting Depth and Capacity: Check the maximum cutting depth specification matches your requirements. Some projects may require cuts deeper than a single pass allows, necessitating cutting from both sides of the material.

Build Quality and Durability: Professional-grade tools from established manufacturers like Makita feature robust construction, sealed bearings, and effective dust protection to withstand demanding site conditions. For trade use, investing in quality equipment reduces downtime and delivers better long-term value.

Popular Accessories

• Diamond Cutting Blades – available in various specifications for different materials including concrete, stone, brick, and asphalt. Segmented blades for fast dry cutting, continuous rim for smooth wet cuts
• Water Bottles and Feed Systems – essential for wet cutting operations, providing consistent water flow to the blade
• Blade Flanges and Locking Nuts – replacement mounting hardware to securely fit blades of different specifications
• Depth Guides and Fences – attachments for achieving consistent, parallel cuts and controlled cutting depths
• Carrying Cases – protective storage for transporting your stone cutter between sites whilst keeping accessories organised
• Replacement Carbon Brushes – essential maintenance items for keeping motors running efficiently
• Blade Dressing Stones – for cleaning and sharpening diamond blades to maintain cutting performance

Safety Information

Stone cutters are powerful tools that demand respect and proper safety precautions. Always wear appropriate personal protective equipment including safety glasses or a face shield, hearing protection, dust masks (minimum FFP3 rated when dry cutting), and sturdy work gloves. Steel toe-capped boots are essential when working with heavy materials.

Cutting masonry materials generates harmful silica dust. The Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH) regulations require adequate dust control measures. Where possible, use wet cutting methods to suppress dust at source. When dry cutting is unavoidable, ensure excellent ventilation and wear appropriate respiratory protection.

Ensure the workpiece is securely clamped or supported to prevent movement during cutting. Never hold small pieces by hand whilst cutting. Allow the blade to reach full speed before making contact with the material, and never force the tool – let the blade do the work. Always disconnect from the mains supply before changing blades or performing maintenance.

Check the blade specification matches your tool's requirements and the material being cut. Using incorrect blades or exceeding the maximum rated speed can cause blade failure with serious consequences. Inspect blades regularly for damage, cracks, or excessive wear, and replace immediately if compromised.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the difference between a stone cutter and an angle grinder?

Whilst both tools can cut masonry, stone cutters are specifically designed for cutting operations with better guards, water-cooling capabilities, and more stable bases for accurate straight cuts. Angle grinders are more versatile but less specialised, making them less suitable for prolonged or precise masonry cutting work. Stone cutters also typically offer greater cutting depth.

Can I use a stone cutter for cutting paving slabs?

Yes, stone cutters are ideal for cutting paving slabs, block paving, and concrete pavers. A 125mm or 305mm model with a suitable diamond blade will cut through most standard paving materials efficiently. Use wet cutting where possible to achieve cleaner edges and reduce dust, particularly important when cutting natural stone which can chip easily.

Do I need a 230V supply or can stone cutters run on 110V?

Most stone cutters for trade use are available in both 230V (standard domestic supply) and 110V (site transformer) versions. On construction sites, 110V tools are often preferred for safety reasons. Check the voltage specification when purchasing to ensure it matches your available power supply. Always use an RCD (residual current device) for additional electrical protection.

How long do diamond blades last?

Blade life depends on the material being cut, cutting technique, and whether wet or dry cutting is used. A quality diamond blade might cut 20-40 square metres of concrete or 10-15 square metres of hard stone. Wet cutting significantly extends blade life by preventing overheating. Signs that a blade needs replacing include slower cutting, excessive vibration, or visible segment damage.

What size stone cutter do I need for cutting brick walls?

For chasing brick or block walls for services, a 125mm handheld stone cutter provides sufficient cutting depth (typically 40-45mm) for most cable and pipe runs. For cutting through entire walls or creating openings, a 305mm or 355mm model offers greater cutting depth, though you may still need to cut from both sides for particularly thick walls. Consider the weight and manoeuvrability required for your specific application.