With an average cost of almost $4,000, replacing a damaged concrete driveway is an expensive but necessary project. Removing the old driveway yourself is often the best way to save on some of those costs if you’re comfortable with the level of physical effort and caution involved. This job is hard work but it’s usually something an experienced  can accomplish if they’re comfortable using equipment like a jackhammer or skidsteer loader. Follow these steps to learn how to tear up your driveway without calling in a pro.

Removing a Concrete Driveway in a Safe way!

Does Your Driveway Really Need to Be Removed?

Luckily for your wallet, you might be able to repair the damage to your driveway without totally replacing it. Your driveway will need to be removed if: it has cracked and been repaired in the past, it currently has cracks that are wide or more than 2 inches deep, or it has sunken in places so that it no longer sits level.

If these factors aren’t in play, you can repair the damage without shelling out for a full driveway replacement. If it turns out your driveway really is too far gone to be repaired, use the following steps for removing a concrete driveway.

Step 1: Find Out Where Utility Lines Are Located

Before beginning any work, contact the city to have an inspector mark the location and depth of any utility lines that run under your driveway. This way, you can take extra precaution when tearing up the driveway in those areas. DO NOT skip this step: if you damage any utility lines, you’ll be the one to foot that hefty bill, not the city. 904-751-2177