Concrete Demolition & Removal: How to Break Up
and dispose of concrete

Introduction:

Concrete demolition is a crucial part of many renovation and construction projects. Whether you’re removing an old driveway, patio, or sidewalk, understanding the process, costs, and necessary tools will help you complete the job efficiently.

This guide will cover the essential steps for breaking up, removing, and disposing of concrete, along with estimated costs and considerations for hauling heavy concrete debris.

Concrete demolition removal jack hammor picDeWALT Jack Hammer

How Much Does Concrete Weigh? (Weight Per Thickness)

Before starting demolition, it’s important to estimate the weight of the concrete you’ll be handling. Here are typical concrete weights based on thickness:

  • 4-inch thick concrete (common for patios, sidewalks, and driveways) weighs approximately 50 pounds per square foot.
  • 6-inch thick concrete (used for driveways supporting heavy vehicles) weighs about 75 pounds per square foot.
  • 8-inch thick concrete (found in industrial applications) can weigh 100 pounds per square foot or more.

Knowing the total weight of the concrete helps determine the size and number of dumpsters or truckloads needed for removal.

Tools Needed for Concrete Demolition

For an efficient and safe concrete removal process, you’ll need the right tools:

  • Jackhammer (electric or pneumatic) – Breaks up large sections of concrete.
  • Sledgehammer – Ideal for smaller projects and thin concrete.
  • Concrete Saw – Cuts through reinforced concrete and controls cracking.
  • Pry Bar & Pickaxe – Helps loosen broken pieces.
  • Wheelbarrow or Dumpster – Used for moving debris.
  • Excavator or Bobcat – Needed for large-scale removals.
  • Gloves, Goggles & Dust Mask – Essential for personal protection.


Steps to Break and Remove Concrete

1. Assess the Concrete and Plan the Demolition

Start by evaluating the concrete thickness and any reinforcement like rebar or wire mesh. Plan the most effective way to break it apart based on its size and location.

2. Cut Expansion Joints and Control Cracks

Use a concrete saw to create control joints, which help direct cracking and make removal easier. If rebar is present, cutting through it will also simplify the demolition process.

3. Break the Concrete into Manageable Pieces

  • Use a jackhammer or sledgehammer to break apart the concrete in sections.
  • Start at the edges and work inward.
  • Avoid standing directly over cracked sections to prevent injuries from shifting pieces.

4. Lift and Remove the Concrete

  • Use a pry bar to lift sections and break them further if necessary.
  • Load the debris into a wheelbarrow, dumpster, or truck for disposal.
  • For large slabs, an excavator or skid-steer loader can speed up the process.

5. Haul Away and Dispose of Concrete Debris

Once broken up, the concrete must be transported for proper disposal.

Options include:

  • Renting a roll-off dumpster for on-site loading.
  • Hiring a concrete removal service to handle hauling. (Dump Truck)
  • Recycling the concrete for use in road base or new concrete mixes.

Demolition Methods: Mechanical, Chemical, and Explosive Techniques

Understanding various concrete demolition methods is essential for selecting the most appropriate approach for your project.

Each technique has its advantages and is suitable for specific situations.

concrete demolition with skid steer and concrete breakerBuy A Skid Steer

Mechanical Demolition

Overview:

Mechanical demolition involves the use of heavy machinery and equipment to break, crush, or dismantle concrete structures.

This method is widely used due to its efficiency and speed.

Common Techniques:

  • Hydraulic Breakers: Attachments fitted to excavators or backhoes that deliver high-impact blows to fracture concrete. They are effective for breaking large areas of concrete quickly.
  • Wrecking Ball: A heavy steel ball, typically weighing between 0.5 to 2 tons, is suspended from a crane and swung into the structure to break it apart. This traditional method is effective but requires ample space and skilled operators

Estimated Costs for Concrete Demolition and Removal

Concrete removal costs vary based on thickness, location, and accessibility.

Here are some average costs:

  • Sidewalk Removal (4 inches thick): $5 – $10 per square foot.
  • Patio Removal (4 inches thick): $6 – $12 per square foot.
  • Driveway Removal (4–6 inches thick): $7 – $15 per square foot.
  • Dumpster Rental for Concrete: $300 – $800 depending on size and location.

Typical Disposal Costs for Concrete:

concrete demolition skid steer loading concrete into dumpster

Landfills and recycling centers typically charge for concrete disposal based on weight, measured in tons.

The cost per ton varies depending on the location, disposal site, and whether the concrete is clean (free of rebar, dirt, or contaminants) or mixed (contains other materials).

  • Landfill Fees: $30 – $100 per ton
  • Recycling Center Fees: Often lower than landfill costs, around $10 – $50 per ton
  • Roll-Off Dumpster Rental: $300 – $800 (depending on size and location)

Some landfills charge a flat rate per load instead of by weight, especially for smaller loads of concrete.

Many areas encourage recycling concrete by offering lower disposal rates for clean concrete, which can be repurposed for road base or new construction projects.

Key Considerations for Concrete Demolition

  • Permit Requirements: Some cities require permits for demolition projects.
  • Rebar and Wire Mesh: Reinforced concrete is harder to remove and may require specialized cutting tools.
  • Nearby Structures: Be cautious when demolishing near homes, fences, or utilities.
  • DIY vs. Professional Services: If dealing with thick slabs or large areas, hiring a professional may be more efficient and cost-effective.


Conclusion

Concrete demolition and removal require proper planning, the right tools, and a strategy for disposal.

Whether you’re tackling a DIY project or hiring professionals, understanding the weight, cost, and logistics involved ensures a smooth and safe process.

If you need expert concrete removal services, contact a local concrete contractor to handle the job efficiently.

Home Page

One more way to share everything-about-concrete.com

Would you prefer to share this page with others by linking to it?

  1. Click on the HTML link code below.
  2. Copy and paste it, adding a note of your own, into your blog, a Web page, forums, a blog comment, your Facebook account, or anywhere that someone would find this page valuable.