[wildduk]

We have a new exterior fireplace with the faux stacked stone. I believe it is some type of concrete material.
I need to cut a few spots in the stone to recess an electrical
Box. What type of cutting tool should I use.
I’ve tried a dewalt oscillator tool with a diamond blade but it wasn’t doing the trick.
Any ideas?

Thx

 

[67IreneRoad]

Drill 1/4" holes with a carbide bit (I use Bosch)around the box, then hammer it out. It won't be pretty, but the face plate should cover the hole. Your could use the diamond oscillator to clean it up.

 

[wildduk]

Yea that might work. Except there will be no faceplate overlap. Outdoor outlet and light switch.

 

[chandler48]

5" grinder with masonry blade will make a clean cut, but it may not cut through enough, but at least it will make a good score.

 

[ront02769]

So, two single gang holes? 5” grinder too big. Natural stone? Start with small diameter diamond bit at slow speed? NO hammer drill. And go the suggested route of multiple small holes and chip pieces out. I think prior poster meant that the face plate for whatever you are installing would cover any messy edges.

 

[ktkelly]

I've used a 4" side grinder before, and have also used my trusty RotoZip with its small side grinder and a diamond blade (it's maybe two inches round).


You can get smaller blades for the side grinder, or just just one that's well worn.




Might even use a Dremel with a small diamond blade.

 

[wildduk]

Thx all. Lots of good ideas.
My pony on the faceplate is that most exterior plugs and outlets don’t use faceplates that protrude past the electrical box. But I guess I could add one.

 

[stadry]

it IS concrete w/o coarse aggregate,,, didn't know anyone made a 5" grinder - most of ours have 4" blades,,, THINK he meant 5" blade,,, no matter which grinder you use, shaft only allows 1" deep cut w/4" blade & 1 1/4" w/5" or thereabouts,,, nevertheless, that's what we'd use.
no hammer drill or diamond bit UNLESS you have a core drill & are good w/2 1/2" core bits
didn't know there were dia blades for the oscillating thingies - have to look