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How to Remove Sonotube from Concrete

Written By

Carmen

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Are you ready to take on the challenge of removing a Sonotube form or column from concrete? Removing these types of components can often be complex when not done correctly, so it’s important to have a plan before attempting any work. That’s why in this blog post, we will walk through the step-by-step process for how to remove sonotube from concrete.

How to Remove Sonotube from Concrete

From understanding the materials needed and assembling them to cutting, chiseling, and using air hammers — we’ve got you covered! Keep reading for our helpful tips and expert advice on how to remove Sonotube safely without damaging your concrete structure.

Should You Remove Sonotube from Concrete?

Removing Sonotube from concrete can be a tricky process. It depends on the type of concrete and how long the Sonotube has been in place. In general, it is strongly recommended that you leave the Sonotube in place rather than risk damaging or weakening your existing concrete structure. Attempting to remove Sonotube could create dangerous and costly structural issues.

If you do decide to remove Sonotube from the concrete, it is important that you take caution to avoid damaging existing concrete or weakening its structure.

The best practice for removing Sonotube from concrete is to use a specialized saw with an abrasive blade designed for cutting through metal, such as a reciprocating saw with a metal-cutting blade. This type of saw should be used in combination with protective gear such as goggles and gloves, and adequate ventilation should be provided when using this method of removal.

Use Metal-cutting Blade

When attempting to remove Sonotube from concrete, it is important to know the size of the tube so that you can accurately measure how deep the saw needs to go in order to cut through the metal without damaging the concrete. Additionally, it is important to ensure that you have the right tools and know-how to avoid creating a dangerous work environment.

10 Methods How to Remove Sonotube from Concrete

1. Cutting the Sonotube

One of the most common methods for removing sonotubes from concrete is to cut the tube vertically using a reciprocating saw, circular saw, or handsaw. Before cutting the tube, it is important to mark the cutting line with a chalk or pencil.

It is also recommended to wear protective gear, including gloves, safety glasses, and a dust mask. After cutting the tube, the concrete can be removed with a pry bar or chisel. However, this method can be time-consuming and may result in rough edges on the concrete.

2. Pulling the Sonotube

Another method for removing sonotubes from concrete is to pull the tube out vertically. This method is suitable for smaller sonotubes and requires at least two people. To pull the tube, one person should hold the top of the tube, while the other person pulls on the bottom of the tube. It is important to pull the tube evenly to prevent the concrete from cracking or shifting.

3. Drilling Holes in the Sonotube

Drilling holes in the sonotube is a method that can be used to remove the tube from the concrete without damaging the concrete. To drill holes in the sonotube, a drill with a masonry bit should be used.

The holes should be evenly spaced around the circumference of the tube, and should be large enough to allow air to escape when the tube is removed. Once the holes are drilled, the tube can be removed by pulling it out or cutting it along the drill holes.

4. Water Jetting the Sonotube

Water jetting is a method that can be used to remove the sonotube from the concrete by creating a gap between the tube and the concrete. To water jet the sonotube, a high-pressure water jet should be used to spray water around the circumference of the tube.

The water pressure should be adjusted based on the size and strength of the sonotube and the type of concrete used. Once the water has penetrated the gap between the tube and the concrete, the tube can be removed by pulling it out or cutting it along the water-jetted line.

5. Burning the Sonotube

Burning the sonotube is a method that can be used to remove the tube from the concrete by creating a gap between the tube and the concrete. To burn the sonotube, a propane torch should be used to heat the tube around the circumference.

The heat will cause the tube to burn and create a gap between the tube and the concrete. Once the gap is created, the tube can be removed by pulling it out or cutting it along the burnt line. However, this method requires caution and should be used with care, as it can be dangerous.

6. Using a Vibratory Hammer

A vibratory hammer is a tool that can be used to remove sonotubes from concrete by vibrating the tube until it becomes loose. To use a vibratory hammer, the hammer should be placed on the top of the tube and turned on.

The vibrations will create a gap between the tube and the concrete, allowing the tube to be removed by pulling it out or cutting it along the vibrated line. This method is suitable for larger sonotubes and can be used on all types of concrete.

Using a Vibratory Hammer

7. Using an Air Compressor

An air compressor can be used to remove sonotubes from concrete by blowing compressed air into the gap between the tube and the concrete. To use an air compressor, a hose should be inserted into the top of the tube and connected to the compressor.

The compressed air will create a gap between the tube and the concrete, allowing the tube to be removed by pulling it out or cutting it along the blown line. This method is suitable for larger sonotubes and can be used on all types of concrete.

8. Using a Hydraulic Jack

A hydraulic jack can be used to remove sonotubes from concrete by applying pressure to the tube until it becomes loose. To use a hydraulic jack, the jack should be placed on the top of the tube and pumped until the tube becomes loose. The tube can then be removed by pulling it out or cutting it along the jack line. This method is suitable for larger sonotubes and can be used on all types of concrete.

Use a Hydraulic Jack

9. Using a Concrete Saw

A concrete saw can be used to remove sonotubes from concrete by cutting the tube horizontally. To use a concrete saw, the saw should be placed on top of the tube and guided along the circumference of the tube until it is cut. The concrete can then be removed by pulling it out or cutting it along the saw line. This method is suitable for larger sonotubes and can be used on all types of concrete.

10. Using a Chemical Release Agent

A chemical release agent can be used to remove sonotubes from concrete by lubricating the tube and creating a gap between the tube and the concrete. To use a chemical release agent, the agent should be applied to the inside of the tube before pouring the concrete.

The agent will prevent the concrete from sticking to the tube and create a gap between the tube and the concrete. The tube can then be removed by pulling it out or cutting it along the chemical release line. This method is suitable for all types of sonotubes and can be used on all types of concrete.

Things to Consider When Remove Sonotube from Concrete

1. Use the Right Tools:

To remove Sonotube from concrete safely and efficiently, you will need to use the right tools such as a sledgehammer, crowbar or pry bar. Hammer the edge of the Sonotube with your chosen tool until it is loose enough to be removed without damaging the concrete.

2. Clear Away Fragments:

Once you have loosened the Sonotube from the concrete using the correct tools, use a broom and dustpan to carefully sweep away any bits of debris that may have been dislodged. Be sure to use caution when doing this as some pieces may be sharp and could cause injury if mishandled.

3. Clean Up All Remaining Material:

Once you have removed all visible parts of the Sonotube from the concrete, vacuum up any remaining fragments that may have been left behind. Then use a damp cloth to clean the area, ensuring that all dust and debris have been cleared away.

Removing Sonotube from concrete may seem like a daunting task, but these steps should make it much easier. Always take the necessary safety precautions when working with power tools or heavy machinery and be sure to wear protective gear such as gloves, safety glasses and a dust mask. Following these simple steps will ensure that the process is completed safely and with minimal damage to the surrounding area.

Conclusion

Overall, removing a Sonotube from concrete can be a time-consuming and daunting task; however, if you take the time to research and prepare, you’ll have a much better chance of success. Doing so will ensure that your work is done right without causing unnecessary risks or damage to your property. If you’re looking for more tips on how to remove Sonotube from concrete safely and efficiently, reach out to experts in the field – they have plenty of knowledge that could help make the process easier.

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