Question:
What tools can I use to remove various surface covers from concrete?
Response:
Scraping tools, sometimes called strippers are useful in removing a wide range of materials from
concrete surfaces. Using a variety of scraping
blades or teeth, these machines remove thick coatings like
epoxies and
urethanes,
adhesives,
thinset mortar,
waterproofing membranes,
roofing material, and
floor coverings. Some of these include:
- VCT,
- carpet,
- marble or ceramic tile,
- vinyl,
- wood flooring,
- rubber and other materials.
Using mechanical scraping machines instead of hand scrapers, jack hammers, chisels, or other methods provides increased productivity and significantly reduces the risk of substrate damage.
When faced with a tear-out or removal job, first match the machine to the job. Consider both the square footage and layout of the area and access to power to determine the size of the machine. Small to medium size areas can benefit from a walk-behind, 110V-powered scraper like the BS 110. A large job may not require a large machine if there are tight or small spaces where material must be removed; however, large scrapers like the BMS 270LPII can greatly reduce the time required for removal if applicable for your job. This scraper also runs from propane power, making it useful in demolition jobs that have limited access to conventional power sources.
Another major factor to consider before beginning is the material being removed. Not all scrapers remove all materials equally well. Also, keep in mind that bigger is not always better when it comes to the efficient removal of material. If in doubt, test a few options to see what works best or contact us for some advice from our trained staff.
Once you get down to business, make sure that you have the right blade or teeth to remove the material you are working with. For most applications, the bevel on the blade is up for concrete; down for wood or soft sub-floors. Start with a narrow blade, then increase the blade size to optimize cutting passes. Narrow blades will engage a work surface with more pressure than wider blades, producing better and cleaner results. Some materials, sheet vinyl, solid vinyl, rubber tile, urethane or PVC sheet roofing, should be pre-scored to the width of the blade you select. Here are some other material-specific tips:
- VCT TILE: Don't use a blade that is wider than the size of the tile.
- PURE VINYL RUBBER TILE: Score to 10 to 12 inches. Self scoring blades (10" blade recommended) can be used with some materials.
- CERAMIC (Glued with Double Duty or Mudsets): Pre-break tiles with a mallet or hammer. On small random block tile, pre-breaking may not be necessary. Open an area large enough for machine or blade to fit in, or start from a doorway. Use a slow speed and small blades. Solid steel bits (ripper teeth) may need to be used first.
- DIRECT GLUED CARPET: Use self scoring blades or pre-score the carpet to blade width. Normally, 12" to 14" blades are used on direct glued carpet, secondary backed, unitary, double glued, vinyl foam, or urethane foam. Latex foams come up easily with a 16" blade.
- HARD TO REMOVE SURFACES: Solid steel bits/ripper teeth can be used on hard to remove goods such as hardwood, VCT, and some ceramic tile.
