Once you install a concrete driveway, it will last for a lifetime. However, there can be instances when you feel like removing the existing driveway to install another one or add artistic touches to it. Sometimes, your existing concrete driveway can break apart and may become an eyesore. In all such conditions, you will have to approach companies doing concrete driveway removal in Melbourne to remove the driveway.
In this article, we give you a sneak peek into the process of concrete driveway removal in Melbourne so you know how the concrete removal companies work-
Site Preparation
Concrete is difficult to cut and remove if the surface is dirty and clogged. If disruptions restrict worker movement, Melbourne’s concrete removal specialists ensure the site is free of these movement barriers. It is also important to cover or remove any objects that may damage due to dust or concrete debris during cutting. Also, when removing broken concrete from the site, companies keep the debris removal path clear to ensure the safety of their workers.
Gather the Tools
After site preparation, the next step is to gather the right tools for the surface. You’ll need a chisel, hammer, cold chisel, sledgehammer, or jackhammer to get the job done. If you’re using a chisel and hammer, be sure to use a sharp chisel so that it doesn’t slip while you’re working. Other standard tools that companies use for the process are-
- Circular saw with diamond or ground blade
- large hammer, sledgehammer
- jack hammer
- large crowbar or pickaxe
- shovel
- Wire mesh bolt cutter
- Demolition saw for rebar
Get the Safety Equipments
When getting a free quote for concrete removal in Melbourne, ensure that the company takes adequate care of its worker’s safety. By its very nature, cutting and removing concrete is a messy job and means stirring up dust from concrete compaction. Adding water will ruin the resulting sludge. It is also risky, as small pieces of concrete can fly in different directions. Therefore, we need safety tools and safeguards to protect ourselves from harm. These include:
- Drawing chalk
- A straight piece of wood for guidance
- Thick gloves
- Glasses
- Ear protection
- Dust mask or dust mask
- Steel-toe boots or equivalent work shoes
- Clothing thick enough to protect you from the elements
Plan the Disposal
Companies performing concrete driveway removal in Melbourne have a concrete disposal policy. They understand that extensive care is required to dispose of concrete adequately, and one cannot throw it away carelessly.
Prevent Dust
Concrete dust contains crystalline silica, which, when inhaled, can lodge in the lungs and cause the lung disease silicosis. In addition to armour, a measure to minimize dust and flying concrete pieces is to spray them with water.
The companies performing concrete driveway removal in Melbourne can also line your work area with 6mm plastic polyethylene sheets to contain the dust and concrete until you are ready to pry it open.
Mark the Area You Need to Break
Once the companies gather the required tools and safety equipment and have a disposal policy, they begin removing the concrete driveway. They mark the area where to cut or break the concrete with chalk or tape. It will help ensure that you don’t accidentally damage any surrounding areas.
Start Cutting or Breaking the Concrete
Now it’s time to start cutting or breaking the concrete. If you’re using a chisel and hammer, start by striking the chisel with the hammer to create a shallow groove in the concrete. Then, continue striking the chisel deeper into the concrete until you’ve cut through the entire thickness of the slab. If you’re using a sledgehammer or jackhammer, start by placing the tool on top of the concrete where you want to make your cut or break. Then, strike the tool with all your might until you’ve cut or broken through the entire thickness of the slab.
Remove the Rubble
Once you’ve cut or broken through the entire thickness of the slab, use a shovel to remove all of the rubble from the area. Be sure to dispose of it properly so that it doesn’t cause any damage to your property.
Examine the Work
Once Melbourne’s concrete removal specialist breaks apart the concrete driveway and removes the rubble, the final step is to examine the surface. If they find the depth of concrete removed unsatisfactory, they will continue to break the concrete until they level the ground. At this stage, the workers use a jackhammer to eliminate the protruding surface and make it even.
Summing Up
Cutting, breaking, and removing concrete may seem daunting, but it’s easy if you have the right tools and know-how. Following these simple steps can quickly and easily remove unwanted concrete on your property. However, it’s always best to approach Melbourne concrete removal companies, for they own vast experience and tools to undertake concrete driveway removal.
Contact Melbourne’s Concrete Removal Specialists to remove your Driveway
P S Concrete Removal are long-time concrete removal specialists in Melbourne. We have the equipment, expertise and professionals with extensive experience to carry out driveway removal projects of all types and sizes, regardless of complexity. We employ the latest technology to ensure that our driveway removal services meet the highest safety and quality standards.
To talk to us and understand the services we can provide, don’t hesitate to get in touch with us at 0411 112 648. You can also mail us at info@psconcreteremoval.com.au
