How to Jackhammer Concrete: Essential Safety and Techniques
Demolishing old concrete is hard work, but with the right tools and proper technique, breaking up a worn-out driveway, patio, or sidewalk is straightforward.
In one of The Art of Concrete’s most-watched video guides—How to Jackhammer Concrete—we demonstrate the precise step-by-step process used by professional crews in the Kitchener-Waterloo area to safely break up heavy concrete slabs.
Step 1: Gear Up with Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
Before plugging in heavy machinery, safety comes first. Jackhammering generates high-decibel noise, flying debris, and fine silica dust.
Eye Protection: Safety glasses or full-face shields.
Hearing Protection: Earplugs or noise-canceling earmuffs (rated for high decibels).
Respiratory Protection: N95 or P100 respirator mask to block harmful silica concrete dust.
Footwear: Steel-toe boots to guard against falling concrete slabs.
Step 2: Choose the Right Jackhammer Bit
Using the wrong bit slows down work and damages equipment. Select your attachment based on the project scope:
Bit Type | Primary Use Case |
Point Bit (Bull Point) | Best for initial penetration, starting cracks, and heavy breaking. |
Flat Chisel Bit | Ideal for controlling crack lines, edging, and splitting smaller sections. |
Spade Bit | Best for digging through dense dirt or gravel underneath broken concrete. |
Step 3: Master the Angle and Break Pattern
The most common mistake DIYers make is driving the jackhammer straight down into the center of a slab, causing the bit to stick.
Start Near an Edge: Always begin near an open edge or existing crack where the concrete has room to shift and fracture.
Work in Small Bites: Position the bit 2 to 4 inches from the edge. Breaking smaller chunks prevents the tool from getting wedged.
Maintain a 70-to-80 Degree Angle: Angle the jackhammer slightly toward the open edge so the impact force pushes concrete outward rather than pinning the chisel.
Never Force the Tool: Let the weight and impact frequency of the pneumatic or electric hammer do the work—pushing down excessively only increases operator fatigue.
Step 4: Clear Debris As You Go
Accumulating broken rubble cushions the impact of the jackhammer, absorbing kinetic energy and slowing down progress.
Use a pry bar to leverage loose slabs away from the working face.
Clear away broken chunks into a wheelbarrow regularly to keep a clean working space.
Watch the Video Breakdown
Seeing concrete breaking techniques in action makes a big difference.for a full demonstration, tool maintenance tips, and professional tricks of the trade.
