Efficient Concrete Sonotube Removal: Fast and Easy Method

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. The Filler Project
   • 2.1 Removing the Hunk of Concrete
   • 2.2 Installing Sonotube Piers
   • 2.3 Removing Shrubs
3. The Church Renovation
   • 3.1 Block Bricking the Window
   • 3.2 Patching Structural Joints
   • 3.3 Chimney Repair
4. Conclusion

The Filler Project

🚧 Removing the Hunk of Concrete

In this small filler project, we were tasked with removing a large piece of concrete from a patio area. The concrete had already heaved due to frost, causing cracks. We began by rigging a hook onto a backhoe bucket and using straps to secure the concrete. With careful maneuvering, we successfully removed the hunk of concrete and loaded it into a nearby dumpster.

✅ Pros: Quick and easy job, addressed the issue of cracked concrete.
❌ Cons: None observed.

🔨 Installing Sonotube Piers

The next step of the project involved installing nine Sonotube piers. Before the installation, we had to remove some shrubs to clear the area. Using flotation mats to protect the surface, we set up the piers and secured them firmly. The lightweight yet sturdy nature of the Sonotube piers made the installation process smooth and efficient.

✅ Pros: Lightweight and easy to handle, provided stable support.
❌ Cons: None observed.

🌿 Removing Shrubs

To create space for the Sonotube piers, we had to remove several shrubs from the area. Using a chain and strap, we cinched the shrubs and pulled them out with ease. Some shrubs had already broken off, simplifying the removal process. Overall, the shrub removal went smoothly, clearing the way for the installation of the piers.

✅ Pros: Straightforward shrub removal process.
❌ Cons: None observed.

The Church Renovation

🧱 Block Bricking the Window

On the church property, we had a section that required block bricking around a window. The purpose of this structural addition was to reinforce the wall and provide support. While the focus was more on functionality rather than aesthetics, we ensured that the blocks were securely laid, creating a stable structure on the church building.

✅ Pros: Enhanced structural integrity of the wall.
❌ Cons: None observed.

🔨 Patching Structural Joints

As part of the renovation, we also patched up miscellaneous joints on the church building. These patches aimed to improve the structural stability of the walls and prevent further damage. Although the patches were not cosmetically perfect, they served their purpose and provided reinforcement to ensure the longevity of the building.

✅ Pros: Strengthened the structural integrity of the walls.
❌ Cons: None observed.

🏠 Chimney Repair

The final part of the church renovation involved repairing the chimney. We started by addressing the blown-out section on the back of the chimney. Using the same technique as previous repairs, we replaced damaged bricks and pointed up any gaps. While some areas required deeper repairs, we focused on patching rather than completely rebuilding to adhere to the scope of the project.

✅ Pros: Efficient repair method for maintaining chimney functionality.
❌ Cons: None observed.

Conclusion

In this project, we successfully completed a filler project and a church renovation. From removing a hunk of concrete to installing Sonotube piers and patching structural elements, each task was completed with efficiency and skill. The end result was a patio area that could support a new installation and a strengthened church building.

Highlights

1. Efficiently removing the hunk of concrete while ensuring site protection.
2. Installing Sonotube piers for stability and support.
3. Successfully removing shrubs to clear the area for construction.
4. Block bricking the window to enhance structural integrity.
5. Patching structural joints to prevent further damage.
6. Repairing the chimney to address blown-out sections and maintain functionality.

FAQs

Q: What materials were used to remove the concrete? A: We used a backhoe bucket with a rigged hook and straps to secure the concrete.

Q: Did the Sonotube piers require any additional support? A: No, the lightweight piers provided stable support without the need for additional reinforcement.

Q: How were the shrubs removed? A: We used a chain and strap to cinch the shrubs and pulled them out with ease.

Q: What was the purpose of block bricking the window? A: The block brick addition was made to enhance the structural support of the wall.

Q: How were the structural joints patched? A: We applied patches to improve the stability of the walls, prioritizing function over aesthetics.

Q: What was the approach to repairing the chimney? A: We focused on patching and replacing damaged bricks rather than full reconstruction to maintain functionality.

Resources:

• Sonotube