Concrete is one of the world’s most commonly used construction materials. Based on reports from the construction sector, more than 30 billion tons of concrete are used globally each year, and that figure is constantly growing.
Its strength, durability, longevity, and versatility make it perfect for a long list of structures from bridges and parking lots to foundations and retaining walls. Those are only a few of the possibilities. It’s also affordable and sustainable, which further adds to its popularity.
Of course, there are times when old concrete needs to be removed. In some cases, it’s damaged because of long-term exposure to the elements or natural disasters.
Other times, it has become weathered and unsightly and needs to be replaced for cosmetic reasons. Sometimes, old concrete is broken up and removed to make way for new development.
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Concrete Removal Options
Contractors and demolition teams can use a variety of methods to remove old or damaged concrete. In certain situations, they can simply use pry bars or sledge hammers to break it up and remove it by hand.
More often than not, though, a bit more force is required. In those instances, jackhammers, excavators, and other heavy machinery may need to be brought in. In some situations, demolition experts even use dynamite to break up concrete.
Another option for concrete removal is hydraulic bursting. Though it works based on similar principles to other removal methods, it also has several key differences.
Those differences make it the preferred choice for many demolition and repair needs, and they make it an essential technique for contractors. Read on to learn more about hydraulic concrete bursting, its advantages, and why it’s so important in the world of construction.
What Is Hydraulic Concrete Bursting?
First off, let’s take a closer look at concrete bursting and how it’s done. It’s a demolition method that breaks up concrete using hydraulic pressure as opposed to impacts or explosive force. It’s a highly precise and controlled strategy.
The process begins by drilling holes at specific intervals in the concrete that needs to be removed. From there, hydraulic splitters are placed into the holes. Then, hydraulic pressure is used to expand those splitters. That creates cracks in the concrete and causes it to split. As a result, it can easily be removed.
Exploring the Benefits of Hydraulic Bursting Over Other Methods
Hydraulic bursting can have several benefits over other removal methods. For one, it’s much quieter than jackhammers, excavators, and dynamite.
That makes it appropriate in situations where disturbances need to be kept at a minimum, such as near hospitals, schools, and businesses. It’s also more controlled and less destructive.
It doesn’t inadvertently cause damage to surrounding structures. Only the concrete that needs to be removed is affected by the process.
This method is also more environmentally friendly than others because it doesn’t release harmful chemicals or send excessive amounts of dust and debris into the air.
That, combined with eliminating the need to use impacts or explosives, makes it safer for construction workers and other people in the vicinity of the demolition too.
Hydraulic bursting likewise allows crews to remove concrete in tight spaces where heavy machinery won’t fit.
Why Hydraulic Bursting Is Essential for Contractors
Now, let’s delve deeper into why hydraulic bursting is an essential concrete removal technique for contractors. For one, being able to use this method in certain situations allows them to better serve their customers and their communities.
As mentioned, it can be used in areas where dynamite or heavy machinery wouldn’t be safe or appropriate. Those include occupied buildings and close quarters. Hydraulic bursting equipment can be powered by electricity, gas, or diesel as well, so it can be used in areas where not all power sources are available.
Hydraulic bursting is an effective solution for areas with stringent regulations on dust and noise. It can prevent contractors from having to pay hefty fines or even experience significant legal issues and delays due to stop-work orders and other actions against them.
This strategy can also be easier to implement than others in many situations, and it may require less labor and result in fewer related costs. Cleanup tends to be faster and simpler with this removal method too.
Since hydraulic bursting is less destructive and more precise than other removal methods, it doesn’t cause unnecessary damage to surrounding buildings and other structures.
As such, it results in fewer unexpected repair costs. It poses fewer hazards for workers as well as other people who may live and work in the area where demolition is taking place too.
As mentioned, there are environmental factors to consider as well. Hydraulic bursting can have less of an impact on the environment without sacrificing effectiveness and productivity.
Additionally, hydraulic bursting is an extremely versatile method for concrete removal. It can be used on many types of structures, including office and apartment buildings, dams, and bridges.
It’s effective on different types of structural components as well, such as foundations, walls, and pillars. It’s also useful in situations where other methods may not be quite as efficient, like when removing reinforced concrete.
Removing Concrete Effectively and Safely
Concrete is crucial in the construction industry. It can be used in many ways, and it’s a strong, long-lasting, energy-efficient material. It’s also versatile and affordable to name a few of its advantages.
Still, it doesn’t last forever. It’s not completely invulnerable to damage, and exposure to the elements can eventually take a toll on it. Even concrete that’s in good condition sometimes needs to be removed to make way for progress.
Various methods can be used to remove concrete. Some of them are loud and overly destructive. They’re not suitable for all situations.
In some instances, they can actually do more harm than good. Hydraulic bursting is an effective alternative.
It’s an essential strategy for contractors for several reasons, not the least of which are its precision, relative quietness, and safety. It offers many benefits over other options and can be used in situations where other strategies can’t.
