I am building a set of steps out of granite foundation blocks. I need a couple of spacers, so I would like to split a block of granite. I have been told to use a hammer drill and chisel, but I wondered if anyone has another suggestion. The spacer width does not need to be exact, and the split side does not need to be beautiful, as it will be hidden. Thanks for any suggestions or guidance.
Feathers and wedges. Drill holes every 3-6 inches depending on thickness and stone, as deep as possible. Insert feathers and snug in place with wedges in a line where the outward force of the wedge corresponds to the direction of cleavage. Tap wedges with a hammer in linear progression. Best to start away from edge and move back and forth. You'll hear it go! Where are you in Maine, I could do it for you if you are near S. Maine, N.H. Border.
As a cool anecdote, somebody who works with old buildings once told me that the
1) drill the holes - has been around a while but the
2) feathers and wedges - are pretty recent.
This guy told me that way back then, the stones were drilled, then left in the weather for a few winter seasons. The ice damage would replace the work of the feathers and wedges.
