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How to Plan for a Concrete Slab Removal Project in Your Backyard

27 May 2021

Tommy Franklin

Are you planning a concrete removal project in your backyard? Are you getting rid of old, worn concrete or planning to install new patio flooring? There's more to this project than just tearing down the concrete slab. You need to prepare for the project to avoid costly downtime, accidents and expensive repairs. With this in mind, here are three steps to help you plan for your concrete removal project.

1. Conduct a site assessment

Before removing a concrete slab in your backyard, you need to conduct a site assessment. During this exercise, note the following issues:

• The depth and thickness of the concrete
• The distance between the slab and the building's foundation
• Existing support beams
• Underground utility lines

A site assessment will avert structural damage to your home. For example, if the slab is too close to the foundation, you need to ensure that you don't damage the foundation during the removal process. Similarly, if the concrete slab is holding any support beams for your upper floors, you need to determine whether disturbing the beams will destabilise the structure.

If underground utilities are running through your yard, you risk damaging them during the removal process. Therefore, find out their location so you can exercise care when working near them. Take preventive measures to avoid costly structural repairs after your concrete removal project.

2. Find the right concrete removal tools

You need a few tools to ensure fast and efficient concrete removal. The basic ones are sledgehammers, pry bars, shovels, hand trucks or wheelbarrows. However, if you have a reinforced concrete slab, you need more than just a hammer to break down the concrete. Reinforced concrete has steel bars embedded in the concrete. You need the right equipment to cut through the rebar and pry the material out. The best tools for this job are angle grinders, bolt cutters or wall saws with diamond blades. Besides these work tools, you need personal protective equipment (PPE) to avoid injury. Invest in a dust mask, gloves, safety glasses, earmuffs and protective steel cap boots.

3. Plan for waste disposal 

Plan for proper waste disposal after your project. If you have an upcoming remodel, you can break down the rubble using a grinder machine and reuse it for the project. However, if reusing the rubble isn't a choice, plan to dispose of the material at the landfills. Most waste collection companies won't allow you to mix concrete waste with the rest of your trash. Therefore, find a company that accepts demolition debris and arrange for a pickup.

DIY concrete removal can be costly, especially if you don't have any tools or PPE at hand. Failure to exercise care can also lead to expensive mistakes. For fast, efficient, and safe concrete slab removal, hire a professional contractor.

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