cutting granite

tsb

Have just built a kitchen extension and now putting a new kitchen in it.I've designed the new kitchen so that the old granite worktops would fit,but will need some cutting down.Does anyone know how to cut granite properly i.e. what cutting discs are used,what machines are used.I've read threads where the suppliers will cut on site so the machines must be portable,therefore possible hireable.I've also seen discs for sale in places like screwfix,which say suitable for granite,but prices vary from £5 to around £60 so wouldn't want to waste money if these discs are useless.Any information would be much appriciated

Old_Skool

I've seen granite cut a couple of ways on site. One way was by making many passes with an 'alpha saw' cutting a few mm on each pass. I've also seen experienced fitters just use an angle grinder but in both cases the cut edge needed to be polished and a bevel added to the top edge.

The polishing is done with a 'Flex' machine working through various grades of pads to obtain the finish. Sometimes the polishing is done wet and sometimes dry but that depends on the stone type and the flex pads used.

I seem to remember that for a rough edge the first flex pad used was called a 'Rambo' pad which was very aggressive.

I don't know if you can hire flex machines - I would do some more research before attempting to cut the material as a mistake could be costly, especially if you struggle with a colour match.

Have you approached any local kitchen company’s for price to re-fit the granite?

Hope this helps in someway - hopefully somebody else will be able to offer some alternative methods and more information.

tsb

Thanks for the information.I've designed the kitchen so that any off the cut edges wouldn't be on show so there would be no need for polishing.Haven't heard of an alpha saw.What sort of blade or disc would be used.Have got some off cuts to try cutting but don't know what disc to buy

Old_Skool

Hi,

An Alpha saw is like a circular saw but has a grinding disc instead of a blade - it's much easier to control than an angle grinder. example below.

http://www.granitecitytool.com/showitem.cfm?itemnum=259

However, if you need to scribe the cut to fit neatly against an existing wall an angle grinder may be the best option.

You need a disc that is capable of cutting high density masonary. Personally I would pay a visit to a tool hire shop as a DIY cheap angle grinder is not really ideal and could burn out under the load.

tsb

Thanks again,I will practice on some off cuts with your ideas

ormus

i would def go and hire the correct tool from someone like hss.
they will give you good advice re the correct disc to use etc...
they may even have a polishing tool too.

cheaper to hire at weekend. also if you know a staff member (wink), they get excellent discounts.