Electric motors are great, thanks Michael Faraday, no-one is denying that. But, when it comes to concrete breakers, sometimes the added oomph of a petrol engine is what’s needed to get the job done. Depending on the voltage of the electric-powered demolition hammer, you may need to use a step-down transformer. This will be required if the voltage of the power tool is lower than the voltage of the power supply. Many professional power tools have a voltage of 110 V to make them safer. However, home voltage output may be closer to 240 V. A step-down transformer will allow only 110 V to be provided to the machine. The Importance of Quality Concrete breakers create a huge amount of vibration, and those with a more powerful motor can be uncomfortable to use. Built with magnesium housing, demolition hammer is manageable yet tough. Vibration is also kept to a minimum, and these factors combine to result in a concrete-breaking experience that won’t break your spirit. Bear in mind that power will change the type of approach you need to take; you can’t expect them all to work in exactly the same way. More powerful demolition breakers will break concrete even if you start in the middle of a slab, whereas other models will require you to start at the edge.

Make sure you are wearing all the necessary safety equipment when using your demolition hammer. Take Note of Included Parts If you plan on using the tool vertically, a lighter demolition hammer will be both safer and easier. Capable of delivering 1500 blows per minute, with an impact force of 45 joules, this demolition hammer is suitable for most domestic demolition tasks. The power comes at no cost to comfort, as it also has a side handle that can be adjusted through 360° to offer the user ample control.And then, when it comes to performance… the phrase ‘like a hot knife through butter’ comes to mind… Not only is this a strong demolition hammer with plenty of power, but Laptronix have also considered safety when it comes to this concrete breaker. There are gloves, goggles and a mask included. Both petrol-powered and electric-powered concrete breakers are available. There are pros and cons to each design. Petrol-Powered Concrete Breakers With an ergonomic main handle, and a side handle that can be positioned anywhere on the hammer barrel, it’s simple to find a position that suits you without having to just rely on the factory settings. The 10 kg weight is also pleasantly (and surprisingly) light for such a powerful machine, so it’s not difficult to support as it drives into whatever paving you’re keen to destroy. Overall, this demolition breaker comfortable to use, and easy enough to support, despite the 14.6 kg weight. It comes with a carry case included to help with transportation. One of the main downsides is the power cord – at just 3 m long, an extension will likely be needed most of the time.

Additional features to look out for include a secondary handle that’s easy to adjust, and a carry case to keep all of the components securely together. Petrol concrete breakers are often extremely powerful due to their petrol motors. Plus, they are portable – you don’t need to use them connected to an external power supply so they can be used even in places where there’s no electricity.Concrete breakers can be dangerous if they are not properly maintained. It’s worth spending a bit more money on a high-quality concrete breaker from the outset, rather than it costing you in repairs down the line.

It has an additional handle partway down the shaft that can be adjusted 180°, enabling you to adopt any working position. This also means it can be used by people of different heights with no issues. However, petrol concrete breakers are generally heavier than electric models and can cost more to run because of their need for fuel. Petrol-powered demolition breakers also tend to require more maintenance than electric ones. Electric Demolition Breakers A final thing to note, which is worth bearing in mind, is its weight. At 16 kg, it’s one of the heaviest units featured on this list, which might mean it’s not the best concrete breaker for those who struggle to work with heavy power tools for extended periods (given that there are lighter options available). Extra features ensure this concrete breaker can be used straight out of the box; it arrives pre-filled with oil and comes with both a pointed and a flat chisel. There’s also an included carry case which, although a little flimsy for such a large tool, can be used to transport the demolition breaker easily from the shed to wherever it’s required. Look for a demolition hammer with a quality build construction. Most have either an aluminium or magnesium casing.For most domestic jobs, a mains-powered concrete breaker will be all that’s required. Look for a machine with over 1000 W of power. If you want to create a straight line, use a flat chisel blade. If you’re just looking to break the concrete up, a pointed chisel will do. Don’t use the chisel blade as a lever to remove broken concrete – use a crowbar or other tool for this. A flat chisel and pointed chisel are the most common included chisels as they are great for basic concrete breaking.

The handles are placed slightly differently than other models, with both at the top of the machine instead of one further down, and they help push down the 23.8 kg breaker through concrete surfaces. Plus, I know we all love a bargain (we’re only human), so it’s also quite satisfying to realise that this demolition breaker only costs the same as renting one for a couple of weekends. And, you get some extras included as well, like a chisel bit, wrench, and steel carry case. It’s a case of knowing your strength, and deciding if you can manage the weight of this demolition hammer. Choose a concrete breaker that weighs around 10 kg if you have concerns about controlling a bigger machine . It may take longer, but will feel safer. If you’re comfortable using power tools, breakers that weigh around 20 kg will use their own weight to dig into the concrete. So, here’s some general advice on how to use an electric demolition breaker. Of course, you must always follow the manufacturer’s instructions and wear the appropriate safety equipment:Granted, you may find that this ~24 kg machine is slightly more difficult to control than lighter models, depending on your build, but when used vertically the weight seems to aid the impact energy and performance.