How To Cut Granite With A Grinder?

Out of the various options available on the market, I am sure you would agree that granite is the most beautiful material for kitchen countertops. 

A couple of months ago, I decided to renovate my wooden kitchen countertop with granite, as it had stained and was starting to crack. Also, my younger son was coming to visit me after two long years. So, I thought that it would be the perfect time to get the renovation done. 

However, with my husband stuck with work in Albuquerque, I had to forget about whatever help I could get from him. But that didn’t stop me; I was hell-bent on renovating the countertop as it was something I had planned for a long time. 

Hence, it was time for me to put on my DIYer shoes and get the job done before my son arrived. Hi! I am Stacy Smith, and today I will be teaching you how to cut granite with a grinder for your kitchen countertop. 

Now, without further ado, let’s jump right in!

Things To Know Before Cutting Granite

Remember that granite is used for heavy-duty constructions and cutting it with a grinder is not the easiest DIY chore. But, take it easy! I am not here to scare you, just be a little patient and careful, that’s all I am saying.

As I’m 53 years old, I need an assistant, so I called over my neighbor, Jessica, to give me a hand. The most important thing to consider when cutting granite is curbing the dust and the heat produced by the grinder. 

Plus, you need to be extremely careful while working, as it is expensive and extremely brittle.

Things Needed To Cut Granite

Here is the list of things that you will need for cutting granite with a grinder in the most efficient fashion: 

1. Clean And Stable Worktop

Firstly, you need to have access to a clean and stable worktop. If you are an occasional DIYer, I am sure you must have a cutting table in the house or workshop; ensure that the surface is sturdy and durable. 

Also, I would suggest you cut the granite outdoors if possible, as it produces a good amount of dust. 

2. Diamond-Bladed Circular Saw

Buy a circular saw if you don’t have it already because this is the first tool that you are going to need. You can either get a dry saw or a wet saw. 

However, note that if you use a dry saw to cut the granite, you will have to deal with a lot of dust. Either way, it has to be diamond-bladed because it is the only material that can cut through hard and dense granite. 

For best results, use a model that produces 1,100 RPM and sports a grinding wheel that measures at least 4.5 inches.        

3. Safety Goggles

You wouldn’t want the dust to enter your eyes, so wear safety goggles when cutting granite. The dust generated during operation irritates the eyes and causes pain. 

4. Ear Plugs

Put on earplugs as well if you don’t like loud noises. Keep in mind that you’re going to make a lot of noise and it’s critical to stay safe.  

5. Dust Mask

You should always wear a dust mask to prevent inhaling the dirt and debris, generated while cutting granite.

Steps To Be Followed

Step 1

Place the granite on the worktop, and don’t forget to use clamps for stabilizing it. In order to enjoy a more stable operation, I would suggest you place the clamps at every few feet. 

Moreover, there’s no need to worry about the clamps scratching the granite surface, as I did not face any such issues with mine. 

Step 2

Next, you have to take the measurements and I would recommend using a scale to mark the dimensions. After marking, stick masking tape on the cutting area while using a pencil or pen to draw a visible and bold line along the taped area. 

Step 3

Now, you have to make shallow and small cuts on the granite. So, wear your safety goggles, earplugs, and dust mask, and then turn the grinder on. Ensure that you have a firm grip on the grinder, and only then start cutting. 

Proceed to give it a moderate push along the marked line. Remember to make small and shallow cuts in this step, and refrain from cutting through the whole piece of granite in a single go. Plus, this is where you need to be careful because even a small mistimed cut can be irreparable.

Hence, while cutting, make sure that you stand to the side and don’t bend too much. Don’t apply too much force either; keep it nice and easy. 

You will need an assistant to apply water on the granite if you will be using a dry saw. I had Jessica to help me, so it wasn’t that big of a deal for me. 

Step 4

Don’t get distracted or move your eyes away from the blade. If everything seems okay, follow the cutting line. 

However, if you are not satisfied with the results, you should stop immediately. Also, after you are done cutting, ensure that the granite piece is alright. 

Step 5

Now, to smoothen the edges, use an angle grinder; this will help you get the desired shape.

Final Thoughts