Updated September 1, 2022
Concrete is everywhere—in our driveways, patios, porches, sidewalks, walkways, foundations, slabs, and more.
Inevitably, it will need to be removed and replaced at some point, and when that day comes, you'll want to know what to expect and how much it costs.
But before going ahead with removing the concrete, you may want to consider repairing the damaged concrete rather than completely replacing it.
If the concrete...
- has cracked and been repaired before
- has cracks wider/deeper than two inches
- is sunken in some areas
...it will need to be replaced.
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, familiarize yourself with the process and how much it generally costs.
How Concrete Removal Works
First, a 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.
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.
If they don't handle debris disposal, this will be an additional cost for you to consider.
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.
Keep reading: Concrete Demolition & Removal: Everything Homeowners Need to Know
How Much Concrete Removal Costs
On average, concrete removal costs roughly $2 - $6 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.
Let's take a closer look at specific, real-life concrete removal projects and their prices to get a better idea of what your project will cost.
| Location | Size | Total Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Cary, NC | 150 sq. ft. | $900 |
| Grand Rapids, MI | 160 sq. ft. | $450 |
| Baltimore, MD | 200 sq. ft. | $600 |
| Bellevue, WA | 300 sq. ft. | $5,000 |
| Seattle, WA | 360 sq. ft. | $1,450 |
| St. Petersburg, FL | 400 sq. ft. | $800 |
| Hayward, CA | 450 sq. ft. | $1,100 |
| Humble, TX | 875 sq. ft. | $1,900 |
| Long Beach, CA | 500 sq. ft. | $850 |
| Deer Park, TX | 700 sq. ft. | $1,900 |
| Brentwood, CA | 1,248 sq. ft. | $2,496 |
| South Lake, TX | 3,000 sq. ft. | $3,750 |
| Location | Size | Total Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Oak Lawn, IL | 162 sq. ft. | $650 |
| Dallas, TX | 163 sq. ft. | $5,000 |
| Massack, CA | 200 sq. ft. | $1,100 |
| Fort Worth, TX | 377 sq. ft. | $1,200 |
| Location | Size ↑ | Total Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Grand Rapids, MI | 160 sq. ft. | $450 |
| Charlotte, NC | 185 sq. ft. | $7,500 |
| Marietta, GA | 200 sq. ft. | $2,000 |
| Lakeville, MN | 288 sq. ft. | $1,900 |
| Santa Ana, CA | 400 sq. ft. | $2,000 |
| Warren, NH | 864 sq. ft. | $1,800 |
| Fort Worth, TX | 2,600 sq. ft. | $3,900 |
Learn more: Concrete Driveway Removal Cost Guide: Pricing Information You Should Know
How to Find the Right Person for the Job
Although it's possible to remove concrete yourself, when done incorrectly, it can cause expensive damage.
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.
Keep reading:
- 13 Must-Ask Questions to Side-Step Contractor Scams
- Planning a Successful Demolition or Renovation Project
- Avoid These 5 Red Flags When Hiring a Contractor