What is the Best Way to Cut a Concrete Block Wall?

Canarywood1

[quote=BeachBum2;987830]I guess you could call them lintels, although they are not solid filled blocks.

The 5' ones are above the windows.
The 3' one is above a door.
Each is one block deep.[/quote

Are they precast or poured in place?

BeachBum2

They were poured in place (cinder blocks. I drilled a number of holes in them and never hit what would feel like poured concrete, so I'm not sure if they are even poured at all. The place was built in 1964, before all the earthquake codes.

Canarywood1

I don't think we're on the same page here,you would be able to tell a poured in place lintel,as opposed to a precast one and you say they are cmu's,at any rate be very careful when you start cutting,and have a planned escape route in mind. Good luck.

princelake

when you use the chainsaw and hooked it up to the garden hose wear a rain suit, let the saw do the cutting and dont jam the chain, they are pricey.

bassheadjohn

Just a little suggestion to get you mental prepared. If you rent that and have a run at that wall, as I mentioned before, that saw is a wild beast to tame. Once that blade gets moving it can be compared to a gyroscope. It will spin true and steady. If you turn the saw while the blade is spinning the saw will want to twist on you. If you turn a little during a cut look out for a kickback. I would suggest going at it tapping on the trigger as you cut until you get comfortable. Just take your time. Those videos are mostly experienced users and they make it look easy. Those saws are heavy and cumbersome but in this case the right tool for the job.