Cutting Flags
It’s almost inevitable that, at some point a flag or slab just will not fit and it has to be cut. How’s that done? What’s the best tool to use? A saw or a hammer and chisel? Are there any rules that should be followed? What about going around curves and arcs? How is a square hole cut around a fence post or stop-tap box. This section looks at all this and much more.
Cutting-in for Flags and Slabs
This series of pages looks at some worked examples of 'best practice' when it comes to cutting-in for flags (or slabs, if that's what you call them!) and some of the typical flagged features that require cutting-in. Although it may seem obvious, there are a number of techniques that are not as widely utilised as they should be, in both the trade and by DIYers.
Cutting Flags and Slabs II - Cutting Curves
How should curves and arcs be cut when laying flags? This page looks at the techniques we commonly use for this task.
Cutting Flags and Slabs III - Inboard Cuts
Inboard cutting is a technique that is used to eliminate small cut pieces at the edge of pavements, and make best use of the paving available. This page looks at its use with flagstones.
Cutting Flags and Slabs IV - Cutting Notches
Notches are cuts made into paving, usually to accommodate obstructions in the pavement such as Stop Tap Boxes and Hydrant covers, but there are many more uses. This page looks at how they should be done.
Cutting Flags and Slabs V - Cutting a Radius
Corners and sweeping radiuses (radii) present unique challenges when cutting-in flags, this page looks at the methods and techniques used most commonly.
Cutting Flags and Slabs VI - Cutting a Fan Radius
A fan radius is a particular layout used for courses of flags when encountering a regular curve or arc. This page looks at how the flags are trimmed to suit and then fitted to give a visually pleasing finish.
Cutting Flags and Slabs VII - Run-outs and New Town Corners
Run-out Corners and New Town Corners are particular layouts used most commonly with public footpaths constructed using flags. This page looks at how they are set out, cut, and installed.
Cutting Flags and Slabs VIII - Cutting a Ring Radius
A Ring Radius is a decorative layout used with flagstones when running around a regular curve or arc. This page looks at how the flags are prepared, cut to shape, and then fitted to complete the layout.
Cutting Flags and Slabs - IX - Cutting a Skewed Radius
A Skewed Radius layout for flags is used with curves or arcs, particularly when they are not regular or 'true'. It's often chosen because it's thought to be easier to accomplish compared to Ring or Fan radii, but is it quite as good looking?
