Wall Chasers & Tuckpoint Grinders

A wall chaser cuts two parallel grooves in a wall so cables or pipes can be buried. A tuckpoint grinder removes old mortar from joints. Both use diamond blades and produce large amounts of dust that contains crystalline silica.

• Masonry
• Electricians
• Restoration

Hazards

• Respirable silica dust, which causes silicosis and lung cancer. See Silica.
• Kickback and blade binding in a groove.
• Cutting hidden wires and pipes inside the wall.
• Noise, vibration and flying debris.
• Blade breakage if a blade is used above its speed rating.

Control the dust first

• Use a tool with an integrated dust shroud connected to a vacuum with a HEPA filter and enough airflow. This is the same approach OSHA's silica standard lists for handheld grinders and tuckpointing.
• Where required, add a respirator (often at least a half-face with P100 filters, or a higher level; follow the plan). See Respiratory Protection.
• Do not dry sweep; use a vacuum or wet methods for cleanup.

Before you start

• Locate and mark cables, pipes and rebar with a detector. Shut off circuits in the area
• Check the blade: right diameter, rated for the tool's rpm, no cracks or missing segments
• Check that the guard and shroud are in place and the vacuum hose is secure
• Use a GFCI-protected outlet or battery power
• Wear eye protection, face shield if needed, hearing protection, gloves and a respirator

Working safely

• Hold the tool with both hands, start the blade before it touches the wall and let the tool reach full speed.
• Let the blade cut at its own pace; do not force it or twist it in the groove.
• Cut in line with the blade's plane. Avoid side pressure on the blade.
• Stand out of the line of kickback and keep your footing stable, especially on a ladder or scaffold.
• Let the blade stop before putting the tool down.

• Do not remove the guard or shroud.
• Do not use a worn or cracked blade.
• Do not use the tool overhead without proper support.

Last updated: October 8, 2026