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https://www.askthetrades.co.uk/cgi-bin/yabb/YaBB.pl DIY Forum >> Building Questions >> concrete pad removal https://www.askthetrades.co.uk/cgi-bin/yabb/YaBB.pl?num=1518368265 Message started by mollie118 on Feb 11^th, 2018, 4:57pm

Title: concrete pad removal
Post by mollie118 on Feb 11^th, 2018, 4:57pm

Hi, I live in a council house and have a 3ft by 4ft concrete pad in my garden. I'm guessing a shed or greenhouse was on it at one time. I want it removed as it's in an awkward place in the garden. The council won't do it, so it's down to me. What's the best way to do it? There are a few tool hire places near me, so getting the right tool shouldn't be a problem. Thanks for any advice given!

Title: Re: concrete pad removal
Post by woodsmith on Feb 12^th, 2018, 8:29am

The first thing I would do is dig a trench all round the slab so that you completely expose the edge of the concrete. This will allow you to see how thick the slab is and it allows the concrete to break up more easily.

Then it all depends on the thickness of the concrete and how fit you are. If it's under 100mm thick and you are relatively fit you could probably break the slab up with a sledge hammer. It's definitely worth trying as the slab may break up easily. Best to use some eye protection doing this as bits can fly everywhere.

Otherwise you will need to hire a small breaker, it will be 110V so you will also need to hire a transformer. If you tell the hire company what you want to do they will sort you out with the right machine. Bear in mind these things are noisy so you will need ear as well as eye protection.

Title: Re: concrete pad removal
Post by londonman on Feb 13^th, 2018, 4:33pm

You also need to think how you are going to dispose of the concrete. Some council recycling places will take this..sometimes you have to pay. Plus you'll probably end up making quite a few journeys if you are relying on a car boot.

Or if anyone local needs a bit of hardcore then they can come and collect it.

Are you sure it's 3 ft x 4 ft ? Shed's are usually much bigger than that.

Title: Re: concrete pad removal
Post by CWatters on Feb 22^nd, 2018, 6:17pm

Are you sure it's not a cap for an old well or mine shaft?

Title: Re: concrete pad removal
Post by thescruff on Feb 22^nd, 2018, 10:56pm

CWatters wrote on Feb 22^nd, 2018, 6:17pm:

Are you sure it's not a cap for an old well or mine shaft?

Like the thinking CW, don't forget septic tank or a modern day grey water tank.

Title: Re: concrete pad removal
Post by Lectrician on Feb 24^th, 2018, 12:51pm

Good point.