Frequently Asked Questions
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When can I use a mortar rake?
When the mortar is of soft to medium hardness. Mortar rakes are not suitable for hard mortars.
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Where would I use a mortar rake?
Mortar rakes are perhaps the only solution for raking out irregular joints (such as random stonework) where a diamond raking disk or oscillating plunge blade can not follow the joint profile. They are also ideal for the short perp joints on brickwork, where a circular blade will not reach adequate depth due to the limitations imposed by the bricks above and below.
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What are mortar rakes made from?
Our mortar rakes comprise carbide tungsten cutting strips (we refer to them as ’cutters’) brazed onto a steel core, which is secured in a hex-shaped holder, having an internal M14 thread to match that of an angle grinder spindle.
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What difference does the number of cutters make?
A 3 cutter rake will cut most aggressively so will be best for soft or crumbling mortar. By contrast, it is likely a 6 cutter rake will provide smoother operation on harder mortars, even though it may not cut any faster.
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Can I control dust with a mortar rake?
We offer the Termite angle grinder attachment which provides dust control / extraction in addition to a depth setting facility. When coupled with a suitable dust extractor (vacuum unit) substantially dust free operation will be achieved and the waste debris will also be collected. It is possible to use both 26 mm and 60 mm XL rakes with the Termite attachment; on deep cuts, two stage cutting using 26 mm and 60 mm rakes successively, will ensure maximum dust control.
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What width options are available?
We offer 8, 10 and 12 mm diameter rakes, in all lengths (26, 35, 60 and 120 mm). A 6 mm diameter, 26 mm rake is also available. All rakes are available with 3 cutters (‘cutters’ as explained in previous answer). Selected 26 mm rakes are also available with 4 and 6 cutters.
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What rake can I use for making a deeper cut?
The standard length rake is 26 mm. We also have available 35 mm (L) 60 mm (XL) and 120 mm (XXL) rakes. The cutter length on the XXL rake is 60 mm; an extended shank contributes to the 120 mm overall length. Before deploying the 120 mm (XXL) rake, it is advisable to gain initial depth with either the 35 or 60 mm rake.