There are three (3) best tools to break up concrete, and although they differ in methods of use, they are all similar in place of application, mostly in asphalt and concrete work, and these three best tools to break up concrete are the:
- Sledgehammer + Pry Bar
- Jackhammer
- Chipping Hammer
The concrete needs to be removed!
You have completed one last time stepping on that outdated, damaged, and unattractive concrete patio or stairs, and you’re ready for something fresh. Alternatively, you may enlist the help of a professional to get rid of it for you.
However, even for smaller projects, the money that should be spent on fresh, beautiful concrete is eaten up by hiring professionals who do the service fast.
When it comes to breaking up concrete, you may do it yourself and it doesn’t have to hurt your back.
To simplify the process of deconstructing concrete, it is important to fully comprehend the project at hand. Tools to select from must also be clear.
Is DIY Concrete Removal Right for You?
Ask yourself the following questions before choosing to do concrete demolition on your own:
Do you have a slab that is less than four inches thick?
If you have, you may remove it in the ways below. Power tools and considerable expertise are required for any projects larger than 4 inches.
Do you reinforce your concrete?
While cutters or even wire cutters may cut through reinforcement that is no thicker than wire mesh, larger reinforcement must be handled by an electric saw.
By breaking off an edge piece or widening an existing fracture, you may determine what is in your concrete.
Tool #1: Sledgehammer + Pry Bar
Many of us think of jackhammers when we consider breaking up concrete. A metal sledgehammer and a little elbow grease should do the trick.
If the slab of concrete is three inches thick or less, then Sledgehammer is the ideal instrument to utilize. Work your way down from the top of the stone to locate the base.
When the height from the bottom to the top is between three and three and a half inches, use the hammer!
Here’s a few tips:
- Have a friend assist you in lifting a corner with a pry bar.
- Work your way around the edges.
- The snapped pieces should be pried out while they are still stuck together.
- Hit the same point again and you’ll get unwanted results.
- With the pry bar, keep moving and lifting.
Tool #2: Jackhammer
A slab that is thicker than three inches is sitting on your workbench. When you want to purchase, you choose between renting or borrowing or buying an electric or pneumatic jackhammer.
Choosing between an electric and pneumatic jackhammer is only a question of availability, pricing, and choice.
In order to be effective, you need be in good shape and be able to control and maneuver the jackhammer. Then get rid of the concrete pieces by breaking them apart and shoveling them away once you’re finished.
That said, we have our comprehensive review article about the best demolition hammer for tile removal.
Tool #3: Chipping Hammer
Even though it seems to be only a flat slab of concrete, you may still need to remove it.
If you want greater control than is available with a sledgehammer or jackhammer, then you should choose the tool that offers that option. You choose to rent or purchase a chipping hammer, if you have the extra money.
The chipping hammers are designed light and portable, giving them more control in confined areas, odd angles, and windows that are close to the floor.
Know Your Disposal Method
In order to dissolve your undesired concrete, you utilized that particular equipment.
What are you going to do with all those large pieces?
A large patio with a surface area of 12 ft. by 14 ft. weighs approximately 5,000 pounds.
The first step is to contact your local landfill and inquire about their trash disposal regulations for concrete. Catered drop-offs for construction supplies, such as concrete, are common at certain sites.
To transport and discard what is left of your demolition operations, you may need to hire a truck or trailer.
This ends our Best Tool for Breaking up Concrete Discussion.
We want you to be sure of what you plan to get, please don’t hesitate to ask for advice.
Love our Best Tool for Breaking up Concrete guide?
You may be interested in our other related articles:
- How to use Hammer Drill for Concrete
- Hammer Drill for Tile Removal
- Demolition Hammer vs Rotary Hammer vs Jackhammer
- Pneumatic vs Electric Jackhammer
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