What You Need To Know About Exposed Aggregate Removal
Exposed aggregate is typically installed in the most heavy-traffic parts of your home. With the constant high usage it is subjected to, compounded with natural weathering, it is not surprising that its surface will deteriorate over time. If the surface damage is cosmetic, you could get away with exposed aggregate refinishing using concrete grinding. However, if the damage is extensive and has begun to affect the integrity of the exposed aggregate, you would have to resort to removal. Professional concrete contractors usually carry out exposed aggregate removal, but you could consider making it a DIY project if you are aware of how much work is entailed. Read on to learn what you need to know about exposed aggregate removal.
Have the necessary equipment
If you choose to engage in exposed aggregate removal, you would have to budget for heavy equipment hire. Some of the different types of machinery that would be essential to the removal process include a jackhammer, a skid loader fitted with a transportation bucket, and a hydraulic jack. A track loader equipped with a backhoe attachment would also be ideal earthmoving machinery to hire, as this can make the removal process much easier. It should be noted that you need to be licensed to operate this heavy equipment. Thus, if you do not have the proper qualifications, it would be best to hire the services of an operator who can handle the equipment for you.
Dismantle the exposed aggregate
The first step in exposed aggregate removal would be to demolish the concrete. Begin by cordoning off the area so there will not be any people or pets wandering onto it during the removal process. The best approach to breaking apart your exposed aggregate would be to drill holes at strategic locations all over the surface. These holes break the concrete apart and make it easy for you to remove large chunks of the exposed aggregate at a time. Bear in mind that the drilling process can be quite loud. Therefore, it would be advisable to give your neighbours a heads up about the exposed aggregate removal process.
Clear out the concrete
Once the exposed aggregate has been dismantled, you would then have to collect the materials. At this stage is where your track loader comes in handy, as you can easily pick up the chunks using the backhoe loader and place them in one location. If you are disposing of the concrete, you could have the pieces loaded directly onto a truck for removal from the property. On the other hand, if you would like to upcycle the materials, you could place them in a pile for future use in different applications such as walkway steps, garden edging and more.