They go by different names: demolition hammers, concrete breakers, kango hammers or jack hammers. They’re a great universal tool that make the back-breaking job of concrete demolition much much easier. Our preference for the Makita range of concrete breakers is well known, so we’ll stick with the term ‘concrete breakers’ for the purposes of this discussion.
There are several things to consider before pulling the trigger on one of these machines:
1. Check for utilities
Concrete has a wonderful ability to hide pipes and cables, especially water services and electrical wiring. Before you even think about any concrete demolition project, make a thorough check to ensure there are no cables or pipes snaking through the concrete.
2. Select the right demolition hammer for the job
We have a range of concrete breakers to handle most projects. Our smaller demolition hammer is great for vertical masonry work while our medium breaker is a good universal breaker for many applications. Our large 32 kg breaker is best suited for vertical breaking only (using the added force of gravity). Check out our concrete breakers http://bit.ly/UHH_Breakers or ask us for information on the capabilities of each breaker.
3. Cut first (If needed)
If you only need to remove a portion of the concrete (and leave some of the existing concrete in place) it’s always best to cut it first with a dedicated concrete saw. Usually a 50-80mm cut is sufficient to leave a good clean edge.
4. Personal protective equipment
You probably knew this was coming, but you’ll need them all. Class V ear muffs are mandatory as the noise can exceed 105dB. There’s a risk of debris being flung up from the breaker, so eye protection is also required. And any concrete demolition will produce very fine dust that can get deep down into your lungs. Wear a suitable mask. Head protection, gloves and good strong footwear are also highly recommended.
5. Electrical Safety
We shouldn’t have to say this but make sure the demolition hammer is connected safely through a transformer or residual current device.
6. You’ll need other tools
We suggest a sledge hammer and crowbar as starter. An angle grinder is always useful if the concrete contains any reinforcing steel.
7. It’s time to start
Finally. We suggest starting at the outside edge and working inwards in some form of pattern so that the broken concrete is easily removed from demolition area. We offer both spade and point bits, and find the point bits are the most popular for general demolition. Take care not to try and fracture the concrete too far from the edge as there is a risk of getting the concrete bit stuck, resulting in a frustrating delay.
8. Excess vibration
The larger Makita concrete breakers are designed with a unique ‘anti vibration technology’ to reduce fatigue in your arms and hands. However we recommend taking a break every 20-30 minutes, and limiting your daily exposure. We’re posted a copy of the UK Vibration guide on our website http://bit.ly/UHHVibration
9. Keep it clean
A clean worksite is always a safer one. Clean up as you go and remember to wear your mask when sweeping, to avoid inhaling the fine concrete dust.
We have a number of hire options, starting with our two-hour hire option, so please contact us for more information.
Please note: the information provided in these blogs is general in nature, and is true and correct to the best of our knowledge. It is not possible to cover every conceivable situation you may face when using our equipment. Always exercise care and use common sense. Avoid any situation which you consider to be beyond your capability. If you feel uncertain about any operating procedures after reading the information on our website or that related to our equipment, or any Worksafe guidelines, you must consult an expert before continuing. No warranty or guarantee is expressed or implied regarding the accuracy of the informaiton provided by Upper Hutt Hire. While every effort has been made to compile and summarise the important health and safety information for the safe use of equipment, the responsibility for its safe use lies with the hirer.
