modifying an existing flagstone walkway

by Tracy G.
(VA)

Hi! and thank you for reviewing my 'issue'!
My (new) house sports a flagstone over concrete (4") front walkway. Unfortunately, the grading in the front of the house is such that the walkway has proven to block water 'run-off' at the end of the walkway (by the drive). In heavy rains the bsmt. suffers. I'm entertaining the idea of removing / shortening the length of the walkway to facilitate better drainage but have no clue as to what tools or techniques to use!
What's the best way to cut and remove the flagstone - in a controlled, nice edge method - and, then, to remove the slab? (I'll be grateful if you say that something other than a jackhammer will work... That's a tool I prefer not to think about using!) I've given thought to using a saw but if there's another approach, I'd prefer that the edge look more chiseled vs. cut.
Any input would be welcome! Thank you!!

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modifying an existing flagstone walkway

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saw is the best for cutting flagstone
by: David

Dear Tracy,

You will probably want to rent a diamond blade saw.

You can see a picture of it here:

http://www.the-flagstone-experts.com/flagstone-cutting.html

You should be able to rent one for about $75 a day. (that's here in Denver.)

You'll need to cut your edge about 1/4 of an inch away from you desired line. That's because you'll need to then chisel the other quarter inch with a chisel and hammer. That will give you the chisel look.

You probably don't need to get a professional masonry chisel, but rather a masonry chisel from a hardware store. That will save you a few bucks.

You can view our free video that shows you how the saw operates here:

http://www.the-flagstone-experts.com/efflorescence.html

Just fast forward the video until you see us using the saw.

We are only cutting joints in the video, but it should give you some tips on cutting.

I hope that gives you some ideas for your project.

Great luck!!

David

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