Hydro-Demolition

Hydro-Demolition was first developed in Europe in the 1970’s, but has just recently grown in popularity and has become a widely accepted, and in some cases preferred, method for concrete removal. Hydro-Demolition is a fast and efficient method of removing deteriorated or “unsound” concrete in order to replace it with new concrete and doing so without damaging the adjacent structures or jeopardizing the integrity of the “sound” concrete.

The process works by utilizing high pressure water to penetrate the concrete through voids and creating enough pressure in these voids to overcome the pressure or cohesive characteristics of the concrete. When this process occurs, the concrete separates and is washed away.

Hydro-Demolition technology can remove the concrete from around embedded metals such as reinforcing steel, rebar, expansion joints, etc…and can be used on bridges, road ways, parking structures, piers, and most any other horizontal, vertical or overhead structures.

Hydro-Demolition is impact free, so there is no vibration damage to the surrounding areas as with traditional methods of concrete removal such as using a jackhammer.

Hydro-Demolition Benefits

• Removes concrete and cleans and scarifies surface area for improved bonding characteristics, without damaging surrounding structures.
• Cleans rust and debris from rebar.
• Eliminates dust contaminates.
• Offers a safer method of removal by eliminating vibration injuries.
• Reduced noise levels offer a valid solution in areas where noise levels are restricted, such as downtown areas or next to hotels.
• Much faster and more efficient than traditional methods
• Washes away unwanted contaminates from the work area.

 Detailed Information

There are two types of Hydro-Demolition:  Partial and Full Depth removal.

Partial Depth Removal is the process of removing a selective amount or depth of deteriorated concrete. It will vary in depth according the amount of deterioration in the concrete and provides a clean, scarified surface for the new concrete to adhere with.

Full Depth Removal is used when the embedded metal elements are in adequate condition, but the concrete itself has deteriorated to a point where it can not be used.