CMC Soultions | Concrete Contractor

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Concrete Removal: When to Call a Pro.

Because of the strength and longevity, concrete can be found all over real estate- in driveways, parking lots, patios, porches, sidewalks, walkways, slabs, and more.

Inevitably, it will need to be repaired, removed and replaced at some point, and when that day comes, you'll want to know what to expect.

When to Repair Your Concrete

Before going ahead with a complete replacement, you may want to consider repairing the damaged concrete rather than completely replacing it. At CMC we are pros at making repairs to add longevity to your investment either by patching your current concrete, or creating a maintenance plan like joint sealing and penetrating topical sealants.

When to Replace Your Concrete

However if your concrete parking lot, driveway, or walk way is showing any of the following signs, it will need replaced:

  • cracked concrete that has been repaired before

  • concrete with cracks wider/deeper than two inches

  • sunken concrete in some areas

If your concrete is free of these red flags, a repair is usually the more cost-efficient option. However, if you do need to have your concrete removed in the Des Moines Metro Area, we’re here to familiarize you with the process.

How Concrete Removal Works

  1. Determine Utility Lines

    First, a Des Moines city inspector will need to determine if utility lines run under your concrete, and if so, how deep they run. If they could be affected by the removal, they will need to be avoided with care. This step is key because if you happen to damage any utility lines, you'll be the one left footing the bill, and—spoiler alert!—it won't be cheap.

  2. Design a Concrete Disposal Plan

    Make sure you have a debris disposal plan in place before starting the actual demolition work. Sometimes, the contractor handling the concrete removal will arrange for the dumpster for you, but make sure you confirm this with them during the initial quoting process.

  3. Begin Demolition

    With your dumpster delivered and ready to go, the demolition can begin. The primary tools used for breaking up concrete include a skid steer loader or excavator with a jackhammer attachment, or just a good old-fashioned jackhammer.

  4. Replace Your Concrete

    Whether you’re looking for commercial or residential concrete replacement, the pros at CMC Solutions promptly provides accurate quotes on their contracting jobs. But don’t take our word for it, we’re one of the best rated concrete contractors on Google, Facebook, and Thumbtack .  

KEEP READING: Driveway Demolition & Removal: Everything Homeowners Need to Know

How Much Concrete Removal Costs In Iowa

On average, concrete removal costs roughly $3 - $8 per square foot, but this will vary depending on the complexity of the project, how easy the concrete is to access with equipment, where you live, and who you hire.


That's why hiring a qualified, experienced professional is always the recommended method.

Make sure you choose the right concrete removal contractor for your project.

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