Get matched with top concrete sawing or removers in your area

You’ll start by breaking the slab into manageable pieces and hauling the debris away with heavy machinery or sturdy hand tools. For concrete under three inches thick, a crowbar or sledgehammer often does the trick; thicker slabs call for a jackhammer and full protective gear. 

Pros bring specialized tools, handle recycling when possible, and finish the job quickly and safely—another reason many homeowners call in a contractor instead of tackling it solo.

You’ll need a permit only if your local building department says so. Small, non-structural projects often slip under the radar and don’t require permits, but major demolition almost always triggers a permit and inspection. Check with your city or county before the first swing of the sledgehammer to avoid fines and delays.

With the right crew and equipment, most concrete demolition wraps up in a single day. Thickness, strength, and square footage are the biggest time factors, so larger or reinforced slabs can stretch the schedule. Pros use specialized tools to move fast without putting nearby structures at risk, keeping the job both safe and efficient.

Start by multiplying the slab’s length and width to get total square footage, then multiply that number by the going rate of $2 to $6 per square foot for slabs up to six inches thick. For thicker concrete, double the square-foot price. Don’t forget to ask whether disposal—costing $50 to $100 per ton—is already in the quote. Checking that line item keeps your estimate realistic.

Yes—think about reinforcement before you pour the replacement slab. Rebar or wire mesh boosts strength and durability on big projects like patios, decks, and driveways, helping the concrete stand up to heavy loads and changing weather. A local concrete pro can tell you exactly what gauge and pattern will give you the best long-term performance.