Concrete Removal Costs in Melbourne: Full Pricing Breakdown
Are you looking for affordable concrete removal in Melbourne? But you are unsure how much it will cost, right? Knowing about factors is vital to understanding how the prices vary for the concrete removal service. In this detailed guide, we will help you find the complete price breakdown of the concrete demolition, along with its disposal fees.
What Is Concrete Removal?
Also known as concrete demolition, concrete removal refers to the tearing down and removal of concrete structures. This involves the following processes:
- Breaking
- Hauling
- Disposal
You may need partial concrete removal to remove only a part of the structure for a new extension. On the other hand, you may require complete concrete demolition to remove the entire structure. This will help repurpose the area for the new construction project.
The most common areas where concrete removal is needed are:
- Driveways
- Sidewa ys
- Patios
- Slabs
- Foundations
Average Concrete Removal Costs in Melbourne
- Cost By Concrete Type
Remember, the type of concrete influences its removal cost. Take a look at the following cost breakdown to make an informed decision:
| Concrete Type | Cost per Square Foot (Demolition + Disposal) |
| Non-Reinforced | $2 – $4 |
| Reinforced | $4 – $7 |
- Cost By Project Type and Size
Concrete removal costs may vary depending on the project type and size. Residential projects often require the removal of stairs and walls, among other options. These are considered small projects. On the other hand, commercial projects need the dismantling or disposal of large concrete structures.
Check out the following price breakdown based on the project size:
- Small projects (under 500 sq ft): $4-$6 per sq ft
- Medium projects (500-1500 sq ft): $3-$4 per sq ft
- Large projects (1500+ sq ft): $2-$3 per sq ft
Additionally, some of the typical job estimates are given below for your better understanding:
| Job Type | Average Demolition Cost |
| Slab Removal | $30-$150 per square meter |
| Driveway Removal | $60-$85 per square meter |
Key Cost Factors Affecting Concrete Removal
Size and Thickness of Concrete
The larger and thicker the concrete, the harder it is to remove. Standard concrete has a thickness of 4 inches, while the thickness of the commercial-grade concrete slabs remains between 6 and 8 inches. Therefore, the standard concrete removal is more affordable.
Reinforcement Type
Often, contractors ask for a lower price for non-reinforced concrete abatement because it lacks added materials and strength. However, the reinforced concrete is manufactured with embedded rebar or wire mesh. Its removal may need more labour, as well as specialised equipment, increasing the additional cost.
Access to Site
The concrete removal in riskier, tight-access sites may cost you more than you expect. This is because of the need for high-grade specialised equipment and the high risk involved in it.
Location in Suburbs
Inner suburbs with high living costs often have higher concrete removal prices. Conversely, the service is cost-effective in outer areas, allowing you to save big chunks of money on the concrete demolition project.
Disposal and Waste Management Fees
This additional cost makes the prices of concrete removal services higher.
Labour and Equipment Cost
It is advisable to do some of the site preparation work yourself, such as clearing the site. This will help you save hefty expenses on labour and high-grade equipment. However, be careful not to do those jobs that require specialised knowledge.
Additional Costs You Might Encounter
- Permits and Inspections: $100-150
- Complex Designs: 20% of the cost may add up
- Excavation and Preparation: $1000-$2500
- Accessibility: Prices may vary
- Site Preparation or Surface Finishing: Provided if needed
- Disposal Fees: $40 per cubic meter (Approximate)
DIY VS Professional Concrete Removal
Are you thinking about whether or not you can remove the concrete yourself? Or whether you should hire an experienced professional? Remember, concrete removal is a do-it-yourself task only for very small jobs. However, it may be more resource-intensive and risky. Besides this, you may need to rent PPE equipment, which will be added to the overall cost. Further, there always remains the risk of suboptimal results during the job.
On the contrary, professional services can be expensive in the beginning. However, their benefits, like prompt services, guaranteed safe results, no risk of carbon footprint, etc., may offset their prices.
Tips to Save Money on Concrete Removal
- Get multiple quotes from different reliable companies to choose the most affordable one
- Opt for a simple design when it comes to surface finishing after the job
- Choose less busy seasons for better deals
- Invest in high-quality materials to cut maintenance costs
- Address minor damage like cracks on time to avoid costly concrete demolition service.
Conclusion
Here’s hoping that you have learnt how different factors can vary the prices for concrete removal services. Are you looking for reliable contractors at affordable prices? Get in touch with different companies to get affordable concrete removal in Melbourne. Ask for their quotes to compare pricing. This way, you will have a cost-effective option.