cthhire
Breaking up concrete may seem like back-breaking work, however instead of driving into it with any tool to hand, using the right tools and equipment could save you a lot of time and exhausting efforts. In addition, hiring your equipment from a specialist tool and plant provider could also help you save a lot of money in the process. In order to demolish and remove unwanted concrete safely and efficiently, here’s what you’ll need and the 5 key steps to follow:
You’ll need to break the concrete and larger concrete slabs up into small pieces, in order to make removal and disposal much simpler. Because concrete is extremely strong and hardwearing, an effective tool for this is a heavy-duty electric breaker. This is easily available from a tool hire specialist and they’ll be able to provide you with instructions for use. Always check the instructions before you hire so that you can use it correctly and safely, and you know how much power it requires.
Concrete shards can be prone to flying about when you’re breaking up the slabs, so prepare by laying a thick enough polyethylene sheet over the area. This will help to catch the remnants and dust produced.
Check the surrounding area to clear the area of debris or tools that could get in the way. Before you start, also check that there are no water, power or telephone lines underneath the slab being broken up or close by that could be affected.
It’s so important to protect yourself with the proper safety gear, as you’ll be working with powerful tools and potentially dangerous materials. Be sure to wear safety goggles, a hard hat and a mask to protect your face and avoid inhaling dust or other substances.
The tools you use may also be quite noisy so earplugs are also recommended. Wear resilient clothing to cover your skin and protect you from loose pieces of concrete.
To break up the concrete, begin at the farthest side so you’ll be able to stand on the solid concrete and have solid footing as you break up the section in front of you. Once turned on the tool will hammer the concrete extremely quickly so ensure that you hold the breaker firmly and upright, without pushing down too hard on it. Keeping the power chord behind you, move slowly and carefully in a grid formation to break the concrete up into small enough pieces to dispose of.
Once broken up, a wrecking bar can be used to create even smaller pieces, which can be shovelled and swept into the waste disposal.
Plan your disposal method before you start breaking up the concrete, as building construction waste cannot go into a general waste bin. There are some concrete recycling plants which may charge a small fee per load.
CTH Hire Centres is a leading tool and plant hire specialist in Surrey, for DIY and trade customers alike. To browse our range of products, please go to www.cthhire.co.uk or visit our Farnham or Windlesham stores.
