What are the different types of Breakers and when is each used?

Whether you’ve got straightforward breaking to do, or it’s part of a bigger demolition job, having the right tools is essential. The right type of breaker makes the difference between an efficient project and a labour-intensive, time-consuming ordeal.

Imagine trying to break through a reinforced concrete wall with the wrong equipment. Not only is it inefficient but it can even be unsafe.

That’s where Beaver Tool Hire can help. We offer a comprehensive range of breaking tools and equipment for construction, demolition and DIY projects to make your job easier and more effective.

In this article, we’ll explore the different types of breakers available and determine which one is right for your next job.

What are the different types of Breakers?

Here at Beaver Tool Hire, we have various types of breakers for different applications. Our range extends from lighter and more portable models for smaller DIY jobs to heavy-duty machines for large demolition projects.

Whether you require tools for breaking up concrete slabs or foundations, landscaping or pavement works, here’s our guide to the types of breakers available:

Hilti Breakers

As a brand, Hilti is renowned for its high-quality tools and superior performance. This leading manufacturer’s breakers have a reputation for reliability and power and many boast high-impact energy with low vibration.

Best for: Heavy-duty demolition and breaking up surfaces such as reinforced concrete, pavements, asphalt and other hard materials including rocks and boulders.

Advantages of Hilti Breakers: Durable, powerful and offer advanced features that make them safe and effective.

VIEW OUR HILTI BREAKERS

Electric Breakers

Electric breakers can be used for both residential and commercial projects. Powered by electricity, they are ideal for environments where noise and fumes need to be minimised.

Best for: Small to medium projects, such as wall or floor removal. Suitable for concrete, brick, tiles, patio paving and more.

Advantages of electrical breakers: Convenient, easier to use for DIY projects and lower maintenance. They are quieter and give off fewer fumes so are suited to indoor work.

VIEW OUR ELECTRIC & DIY BREAKERS

Manual Breaking Tools

Manual breaking equipment traditionally consists of sledgehammers, chisels, pickaxes and crowbars – tools that many of us have in our kits already. To supplement your basic breaking tools, we stock manual and hydraulic block splitters that are designed to split large concrete slabs and blocks quickly and easily.

Best for: Smaller-scale projects or precision work such as residential driveways or patios.

Advantages: Safe and simple to use, cost-effective and very portable.

VIEW OUR MANUAL BREAKING TOOLS

Petrol Breakers

Petrol breakers offer a powerful performance. Our anti-vibration road gun is designed to cope with the toughest of tasks, including hard concrete and slabs,  asphalt driveways and footings.

Best for: Remote locations without power supply and outdoor projects.

Advantages: High power, mobile and independent from power sources.

VIEW OUR PETROL BREAKERS

Air Compressors & Pneumatic Breakers

Pneumatic breakers operate using air compression powered by petrol generators. They provide the force and versatility required for heavy-duty applications, harnessing the power of compressed air to break up tough materials with ease.

Best for: Large industrial projects, continuous use.

Advantages: Efficient, high impact force and suitable for heavy-duty tasks.

VIEW OUR AIR COMPRESSORS

How To Choose the Right Breaker

Factors to consider when choosing a breaker:

  • What is the scale of the project? Larger projects may require more powerful breakers.
  • What material type/s require breaking, e.g. are you dealing with asphalt, brick or rock? Do you require heavy-duty concrete breakers?
  • Is it a professional/commercial or DIY project?
  • What is the work environment? Is it indoors or outside? Is it remote?
  • What power sources are available onsite?

For further advice on choosing the right breaker, please get in touch with our team. Alternatively, visit your nearest branch – we have seven locations across Hampshire and West Sussex.

Breaker Safety Tips and Best Practices

It almost goes without saying that on-site safety is of paramount importance. Using powerful breaking equipment must be carried out with caution.

Breaker safety tips:

  • Use proper protective gear, including:
    • Eye-protecting safety goggles
    • Ear defenders
    • Heavy-duty gloves to protect from vibration and sharp objects or debris that may kick-up unexpectedly
    • Steel toe cap boots to protect feet from heavy machines and debris
    • Respiratory gear if working in a dusty environment or around harmful materials
  • Only trained workers to operate breaking machinery
  • Familiarise yourself with the manufacturer’s guidelines and operator manual
  • Always follow additional safety considerations, unique to each type of breaker
  • Choose well-maintained breaker equipment for optimal performance
  • Ensure the area is clear of unnecessary personnel and obstacles
  • Use barriers to keep members of the public at a safe distance
  • Ensure areas are well-ventilated to disperse dust and fumes (particularly petrol or pneumatic breakers)
  • Do not use electric breakers in wet conditions to avoid electric shock
  • Check emergency preparedness procedure/s prior to commencing

Choose Beaver Tool Hire for Breaker Hire Services

Whether you’re tackling heavy-duty construction or a DIY project, our breaking equipment hire services provide the best solutions to meet your needs.

With an extensive range of high-quality breakers available, we’re the go-to for reliable tool hire in Hampshire and West Sussex.

Our friendly team is always on hand to offer expert advice and guidance, helping you to choose the right tool for your project. And, with flexible hire options, you’ll ensure that you only have the tools you need, for as long as you need them.

Speak to Beaver Tool Hire today. With branches in Chichester, Petersfield, Waterlooville, Portsmouth, Fareham, Winchester – and our newest depot in Worthing – we are conveniently located to provide top-quality tool and equipment hire services throughout Hampshire and West Sussex.

Get in touch with your nearest branch today to find out about the tool hire solutions for your project. Our knowledgeable team is always happy to help.

Beaver Tool Hire branches:

Chichester Branch
Phone: 01243 782510
Email: hire@beavertoolhire.co.uk

Petersfield Branch
Phone: 01730 264804
Email: hire@beaverpetersfield.co.uk

Waterlooville Branch
Phone: 023 9225 9325
Email: hire@beaverdenmead.co.uk

Portsmouth Branch
Phone: 023 9266 3599
Email: hire@beaverportsmouth.co.uk

Fareham Branch
Phone: 01329 233731
Email: hire@beaverfareham.co.uk

Winchester Branch
Phone: 01962 790369
Email: hire@beaverwinchester.co.uk

Worthing Hire Desk
Phone: 01903 323331 / 07355 674080
Email: hire@beaverworthing.co.uk