You have some concrete on your property that needs to go. Maybe it is a driveway with cracks, an old patio that is now a tripping hazard, or an unused slab from a previous owner. Whatever the reason, you are ready to remove it and make room for something new. This is a good decision, but removing concrete is not a simple task. It requires careful planning, the correct tools, and a clear understanding of the work involved. As a contractor who has completed many of these projects, I can tell you there is a correct way and an incorrect way to do this work. Let us discuss how to complete Concrete Demolition the correct way here in Pensacola.
Setting Your Project Timeline for Concrete Demolition
The first thing people ask is about the timeline. How long will this Concrete Demolition project take? The answer depends on the size and the complexity of your concrete. A small section of sidewalk might be a fast job, but a large driveway with rebar is a much bigger project.
- Small Concrete Demolition Jobs (like a sidewalk or a small pad): For smaller Concrete Demolition projects, you might expect one to two days for the actual demolition and debris removal. This does not include the preparation work and the final cleanup.
- Medium Concrete Demolition Jobs (like a single-car driveway or a patio): These Concrete Demolition projects can take anywhere from two to five days. This is especially true if there is rebar involved in the concrete.
- Larger Concrete Demolition Jobs (like a big driveway, a foundation slab, or a pool deck): For these larger Concrete Demolition projects, you are probably looking at one week or more just for the demolition phase.
These timelines are for the physical work only. You must also consider the time it takes to get quotes, sign contracts, and, very importantly, obtain permits. In Florida, if your Concrete Demolition project involves removing any structure, including an in-ground swimming pool, you will very likely need a permit from your local city or county building department. Most Concrete Demolition services in Pensacola require permits, especially if you are removing an entire structure. A good contractor will help you with the permitting process, but it does add time to the beginning of your project. We are talking weeks, not days, for the permit to be approved. Also, consider the weather in Pensacola. We get a lot of rain, especially during the summer. You do not want to start a large Concrete Demolition project right before a tropical storm arrives.
What to Expect During the Concrete Demolition Process
Once you have your contractor selected and the permits are in hand, here is a general idea of what will happen during your Concrete Demolition project:
- Site Preparation: Before any heavy equipment arrives, your contractor will protect nearby areas. This means covering windows, protecting landscaping, and setting up safety barriers. They will also make sure utilities are marked or disconnected if that is necessary.
- Breaking Up the Concrete: This is the part where there will be noise and dust. Depending on how thick the concrete is and whether it has rebar, they will use jackhammers, hydraulic breakers, or even specialized saws. If you have reinforced concrete with rebar or steel mesh, it will take more time and specialized equipment to break up. This can increase the overall Concrete Demolition costs.
- Debris Removal: Once the concrete is broken into pieces that can be managed, it needs to be removed. This usually involves loading the concrete into dump trucks or roll-off dumpsters. Here at Midway Demolition, we always make it a priority to recycle concrete whenever it is possible. There are several concrete recycling facilities right here in Pensacola, like McDirt Industries, that turn demolished concrete into usable construction materials. This helps keep our Pensacola community clean and green.
- Site Cleanup and Grading: After all the concrete is hauled away, the crew will clean up the area. They will remove any leftover debris. If you are planning new construction or landscaping, they might also do some basic grading to prepare the site for the next steps.
Expect noise during the Concrete Demolition. Escambia County has noise ordinances. Construction noise is generally allowed between 7:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m. Monday through Saturday. It will still be loud. Your neighbors will appreciate it if you give them a heads-up about the work.
How to Prepare Your Property for Concrete Demolition
You have a role to play too, even if you are hiring professionals for your Concrete Demolition. Doing these things ahead of time can save you problems and potentially some money:
- Clear the Area: Move anything valuable or fragile away from the work zone. This includes patio furniture, grills, potted plants, garden decorations, and anything else you do not want covered in dust or accidentally damaged.
- Inform Your Neighbors: A little courtesy goes a long way. Let your immediate neighbors know when the Concrete Demolition work is scheduled. This is especially important if it is going to be noisy.
- Secure Pets and Kids: Demolition sites are not safe for children or animals. Make sure pets are safely indoors or away from the property. Keep children well clear of the work area at all times.
- Identify Utilities: Even though your contractor will call 811 to mark public utilities, it is a good idea to point out any private lines you know about. This includes irrigation systems, invisible dog fences, or outdoor lighting wires.
- Access: Make sure the crew has clear access to the work area for their equipment and trucks. Move your cars if they are in the way of the Concrete Demolition.
Questions to Ask Before Signing a Concrete Demolition Contract
Do not just choose the first quote you receive. Ask questions, get all the details, and make sure you are comfortable with the company you are hiring for your Concrete Demolition. Here are some important things to discuss:
- What is included in the quote for the Concrete Demolition? Make sure the quote covers everything. This includes labor, equipment, debris removal, and disposal fees. Some contractors might give a low price but then add extra charges for hauling or recycling later. Concrete removal costs can range from $2 to $6 per square foot. Disposal fees can add $150 to $300 per ton.
- Who handles the permits for the Concrete Demolition? A reputable contractor will handle all necessary permits and make sure there is full compliance with local regulations. You want someone who understands how to work with the City of Pensacola and Escambia County.
- Are you licensed and insured for Concrete Demolition? This is very important. Ask for proof of general liability and workers' compensation insurance. You do not want to be responsible if someone gets hurt or if something goes wrong during the Concrete Demolition.
- What is your plan for debris disposal after the Concrete Demolition? Ask if they recycle the concrete. Recycling is better for the environment and often more cost-effective.
- How will you protect my property and my neighbor's property during the Concrete Demolition? Get specific details on how they will minimize dust, protect landscaping, and prevent damage to structures nearby.
- What is the estimated timeline for the Concrete Demolition, including permitting? Get a clear understanding of the schedule, from the start of the project to the finish.
- What about the soil underneath after the Concrete Demolition? Pensacola has sandy soils. Sometimes you will find loose sugar sand or organic pockets that are not good for new construction. Ask if they will check the subgrade once the concrete is removed and what they recommend if the soil is not stable.
Choosing the correct contractor for your Concrete Demolition project is an important decision. Take your time, do your research, and you will set yourself up for a smooth project and a clean area for whatever you are planning next in Pensacola.