A jackhammer is a portable tool commonly used for heavy-duty work. Also known as a demolition hammer or concrete breaker, its striking force enables it to break up the hardest materials (concrete, stone, brick, etc.).
This versatile tool combines the functions of a hammer and a chisel. Its motor can be electric, pneumatic, or combustion-powered. Here’s a closer look at how it works and its criteria, to help you work out how to choose the right demolition hammer (jackhammer).
Jackhammer Buying Guide (Demolition Hammer): A Comprehensive Buying Guide
The jackhammer is one of the essential tools in the world of construction and renovation. It can be used to destroy a wide range of structures and materials including concrete and stone.
Whether you’re a professional user or a simple DIY enthusiast, choosing a demolition hammer can make a significant difference in the efficiency and success of your heavy-duty projects. In this comprehensive buying guide, we’ll explore the key factors to consider “how to choose a demolition hammer” for your needs. Here are a few things you need to know to choose the best one.
Your demolition requirements
To find out how to choose a jackhammer, the first thing to do is to understand your specific demolition needs. Ask yourself the following questions:
- What type of materials will you be demolishing (concrete, brick, asphalt, etc.)?
- How thick or strong are the materials?
- What is the scale of your project (small-scale DIY, medium-scale renovation, or large-scale construction)?
- Will you be working on vertical or horizontal surfaces?
The answers to these questions will help you determine the power, size, and characteristics of your machine.
Types of Demolition Hammers (Jackhammers)
There are two primary types of jackhammers to choose from, each manufactured for specific tasks:
- Horizontal jackhammers: These are used to break through cement walls, and are similar to a powerful drill.
- Vertical jackhammers: These machines are employed by professional users to break up hard surfaces like floors. It must be handled in compliance with certain safety rules.
Select the type that aligns with your project requirements.
Consider the Power Source
These breakers can be driven by electricity, compressed air (pneumatic), or gasoline. Depending on the availability of electricity and the desired portability, the choice of power source is made by the customer’s requirements.
| Power source | Operation |
| Electric Demolition Hammers | The electrical jackhammer has been specially adapted to handle work with moderate intensity and is a multi-purpose machine that’s very easy to handle. As well as being powerful and more or less lightweight, it offers real ease of use despite its limited range of applications. Popular with construction professionals, particularly in the field of interior renovation. However, it is less demanding to use than a pneumatic jackhammer and makes less noise. |
| Pneumatic Demolition Hammers | They are widely used on public works sites, particularly for structural work. It uses a special compressor that supplies compressed air through a rubber hose to power the unit. Lighter than an electric jackhammer, it has a compact design and is suitable for longer jobs. This type of jackhammer remains functional even in very damp or dusty conditions, or where there is a risk of fire. |
| Gasoline-Powered Demolition Hammers | Similar in operation to an electric jackhammer, the gas or engine-powered jackhammer uses combustion power rather than electricity. The oxidizing effect of the ignited gas powers the same set of pistons, which reciprocate against a shaft connected to a drill bit. The advantage of a gas-powered jackhammer lies in its true portability. Although it can be heavy, it requires no cords or connectors. For anyone with a medium-sized concrete structure, a gas-operated jackhammer is often the best choice. |
| Thermal demolition hammers | Thermal breakers are powerful, highly effective tools. Despite their heavy weight and rather noisy sound, they are easy to handle. Unlike pneumatic jackhammers, there’s no need for a compressor, which makes them much easier to transport and adapt to more versatile tasks. |
| Hydraulic demolition hammers | Hydraulic jackhammers are used for large-scale, heavy-duty work. Unlike the electric model, it requires a hydraulic power unit to operate. They are effective for demolishing and drilling difficult surfaces. This device comprises a drilling tool and a hydraulic power unit. |
Impact Energy and Frequency
The impact energy and frequency are crucial determinants of the demolition hammer’s performance. Impact energy is measured in joules and indicates the hammer’s striking power. Higher impact energy means that the tool can break harder materials more effectively.
Plus, you need to know the number of blows per minute. A higher BPM indicates faster chiseling and breaking, which can speed up your work considerably.
Size and Weight
Remember that the size and weight of your machine are important, above all if you’re going to be working for long periods. Smaller and lighter models are easy to move around, but they may not have enough power for larger tasks. Heavier versions provide more strength but may be a bit hard to use for long periods.
Vibration Control
These powerful tools produce strong vibrations. As well as being a nuisance when working, excessive vibrations can cause physical damage to the user. For this reason, demolition hammers on the market are equipped with several systems to reduce the force of the vibrations transmitted to the user:
- Weight counterbalance: This system reduces vibrations using a weight that moves in the opposite direction to the percussion movement.
- Decoupled handle: This is generally found on the most powerful models and consists of a handle attached to a point between the motor body and the tip. Moreover, this type of handle is attached to the hammer with hinges that increase freedom of movement.
- Shock absorbers: Many new models use shock absorbers in addition to other vibration-damping systems.
Padded handle: Several models use special anti-vibration rubber inserts that reduce the vibrations transmitted to the user.
Accessories and Compatibility
Choose a demolition hammer compatible with different accessories. Having a range of accessories can increase the tool’s versatility, allowing you to carry out different tasks with the same tool.
Safety Features
When working with power tools, your safety should always be a top priority. Look for features like a safety clutch to prevent kickback, a lockout button for continuous operation, and proper insulation to prevent electric shock.
Budget Considerations
There’s a whole range of prices available for jackhammers, which is why you need to set a budget before you start your search. Although it may be appealing to go for the cheapest possible alternative, investing in a quality tool can save you money in the long term by guaranteeing durability and efficient performance.
Brand Reputation and Warranty
Find out about the brand’s reputation and read customer reviews before purchasing a device. Plus, check the manufacturer’s warranty to guarantee your purchase.
To conclude
How to choose the right demolition hammer is a crucial question that can have a significant impact on the success and efficiency of your demolition projects. Considering factors like your specific needs, power source, impact energy, size, and safety features you can make an educated decision that will serve you well for years to come.
FAQ
What factors should be considered when choosing a demolition hammer?
Energy source, impact energy, weight and size, type of tips, safety features, durability and build quality, budget, brand and warranty, project specifics, and user reviews are several factors to consider.
Can a demolition hammer be used for both commercial and residential projects?
This versatile tool can be used for a variety of tasks, from a small home renovation project to a larger commercial construction project.
