PA Bluestone AUCTION!
Working with Pennsylvania Bluestone is both an art and a craft. While bluestone is extremely durable, it can be cut, shaped, and installed efficiently using the proper tools. Whether you’re a contractor, mason, or experienced DIY builder, having the right equipment makes all the difference in quality, safety, and productivity.
This guide outlines the most commonly used tools for cutting, finishing, and installing bluestone.
Cutting Tools for Bluestone
Bluestone can be cut cleanly with modern diamond tooling or split naturally along its bedding planes.
Diamond Blade Wet Saw
- Creates clean, straight cuts
- Ideal for pattern stone, steps, and tight joints
- Water cooling reduces dust and blade wear
Angle Grinder with Diamond Blade
- Used for trimming, notching, and small adjustments
- Portable and versatile
- Best for fine fitting rather than long straight cuts
Guillotine / Stone Splitter
- Splits stone along natural grain
- Produces a rustic snapped edge
- Fast and efficient for shaping irregular pieces
Hand Tracer & Chisel Set
- Traditional method for controlled splitting
- Excellent for custom shaping and artistic work
- Requires skill but produces authentic results
Surface Finishing Tools
Finishing tools help refine the surface texture and edges of bluestone.
Bush Hammer
- Creates a textured, slip-resistant surface
- Often used for custom finishes or restoration
Chisels & Pitching Tools
- Used to dress edges and remove sharp corners
- Common in steps, wall stone, and caps
Hand Polisher (Diamond Pads)
- Refines sawn edges
- Can create honed or semi-polished finishes
- Primarily for specialty applications
Installation & Placement Tools
Proper installation tools ensure stones are placed accurately and safely.
Plate Compactor
- Essential for compacting base layers
- Prevents settling and movement
Rubber Mallet
- Used to seat stones gently into bedding material
- Allows fine height adjustment without damaging stone
Levels & Straightedges
- Ensures proper slope and alignment
- Critical for drainage and safety
Shims & Spacers
- Helpful when working with varying thicknesses
- Allows consistent joint spacing
Material Handling & Safety Equipment
Bluestone is heavy. Safe handling protects both workers and the stone itself.
Stone Lifters / Tongs
- Allow safe lifting of large slabs
- Reduce strain and risk of injury
Pry Bars & Leverage Tools
- Used for positioning heavy pieces
- Provide fine control without forcing stone
Safety Gear
- Gloves with good grip
- Eye protection when cutting or splitting
- Hearing protection for power tools
- Respirator or dust mask when dry cutting
Jointing & Finishing Tools
- Push brooms for sweeping joint material
- Trowels for mortar installations
- Jointing irons for clean mortar lines
- Watering cans or gentle spray nozzles for polymeric sand
Choosing the Right Tools for Your Project
Not every project requires every tool. A small patio may need only basic cutting and placement equipment, while larger or more detailed work benefits from specialized stone tools.
Investing in proper tools improves efficiency, protects the stone, and results in a cleaner, more professional installation.
