Curves

[brick]

hey, i've just been reading this site for help with brick laying, I am currently laying the patio in my backgarden and I've completed the main bulk of it. now i am trying to do a curve (larger than 1meter) but was not sure how to mark out a perfect curve.

i tried using a piece of string but dont think it gave me a perfect curve.

also would u advice to use a brick cutter, or do u think it is possible to cut the curve with a new bolster

cheers, ne advice would b much appreciated

[Mark B]

to mark out the curve try to use the string line again, it should work, just tap in a peg in the middle of the cirlce and then use like a compass. try taking a look at http://www.pavingexpert.com/setout01.htm

as for the cutting of the bricks, it takes a long time to get used to cutting the bricks accuratly with the bolster and you end up with loads of broken un usable bricks, best to use a cut off saw/grinder or you could try a brick cutter but i dont know how good it would be. i would go for the grinder or cut off saw.

[Ross-Paving]

For the curve - use a piece of wood and put two nails through at the required radius, stick one at the centre point and draw the other round to mark out the curve - as for the string watch that it doesn't stretch. Diamond blade on a grinder will do the job, even just a 4" grinder cutting as much as you can then trim the rest with a bolster.

[brick]

hey, cheers for that is v useful, am trying it now.
not sure about the gaps in between each brick being 13mm- if a perfect circle is done, so gonna muck around with it and see

thanks again

[Mark B]

yeh if the bricks are on a really tight radius then the gaps will be too big anf you woulnd need to taper each brick, take a look at http://www.pavingexpert.com/blockdtl.htm

i know its for blocks but has the similar idea about the radiuses and the bricks.

[lutonlagerlout]

obviously on a radius you sometimes get 20mm joints at the front (outer) edge of the radius,as long as these are kept plumb and neat they should be ok,i normally point these with a pointing trowel rather than a jointing iron as it looks better
cheers tony