Hardscape tear-out refers to the removal of non-living landscape elements like concrete patios, pavers, retaining walls, walkways, driveways, and asphalt. It becomes necessary when these features crack, settle unevenly, pose safety hazards, or no longer serve their purpose. At Arnold’s Hauling, we use heavy-duty equipment and careful planning to remove these materials efficiently. San Jose's soil movement and shifting weather patterns often cause damage over time, making tear-out a crucial first step before reinstallation or landscaping improvements.

Most tear-outs can be completed within a day or two, depending on the size and type of materials involved. A simple patio or small concrete pad may take just a few hours, while larger driveways or retaining walls could take longer. At Arnold’s Hauling, we assess the project site beforehand and provide a detailed timeline. We also factor in access, weather, debris volume, and potential complications like reinforced concrete or buried utilities to prevent delays.

In many cases, yes—especially if your tear-out involves public sidewalks, driveways, or curb modifications. Arnold’s Hauling is familiar with San Jose’s permitting process and will guide you through whether or not a permit is required. Skipping permits can lead to fines or complications with inspections later. Our team ensures compliance with city regulations and can even coordinate the permit process for you if needed, saving you from costly delays or red tape.

Yes, Arnold’s Hauling takes care of all debris removal and responsible disposal. Concrete, asphalt, bricks, and pavers are sorted and taken to certified recycling centers whenever possible, reducing landfill waste. We load, haul, and dispose of materials legally and in accordance with San Jose’s environmental guidelines. Our clients don’t have to worry about dumpsters, rental trucks, or where to take heavy debris—our full-service solution covers it all from tear-out to cleanup.

Yes, we often encounter tree roots growing under patios, driveways, or walkways. These can cause significant structural issues. Arnold’s Hauling can safely cut and remove problematic roots during the tear-out process, and we’ll recommend next steps if root barriers or landscape modifications are needed. We coordinate with arborists if necessary and always ensure that removals don’t damage remaining healthy trees unless explicitly requested. It’s all part of our comprehensive approach to site preparation.

We always begin with a site evaluation to determine the condition of your hardscape. Minor cracks or cosmetic damage might be repairable, but if the surface is severely cracked, uneven, or has drainage issues, a full tear-out is often the better long-term solution. Arnold’s Hauling provides honest assessments and explains the pros and cons of both options. In San Jose’s shifting soil conditions, a full replacement may offer better stability and durability.

We take precautions to protect surrounding areas during every tear-out. Arnold’s Hauling uses compact, maneuverable equipment to minimize turf and soil disruption. We place protective mats when necessary and avoid unnecessary movement in landscaped zones. After removal, we can help rough grade the site or prep it for your next installation phase. Damage is extremely rare, but we are fully insured and prioritize leaving your property clean, level, and ready for its next transformation.

Absolutely. Arnold’s Hauling emphasizes sustainability by recycling as much material as possible—concrete, brick, and asphalt can often be crushed and reused. We avoid unnecessary dumping and always use local recycling facilities that follow California environmental standards. We can also suggest greener design alternatives for your replacement hardscape, such as permeable pavers or water-wise layouts. Choosing sustainable tear-out services helps reduce landfill waste and supports San Jose’s sustainability goals.

Before our crew arrives, remove any furniture, planters, or personal items from the area to be torn out. If the hardscape connects to sprinkler lines or utilities, let us know in advance so we can help coordinate safe disconnection. Arnold’s Hauling will handle the heavy lifting and access setup. If needed, we can perform a pre-job walkthrough to discuss logistics, such as gate width, parking, and haul route, to ensure a smooth and efficient day-of process.

Yes. We frequently work alongside builders, landscape designers, and other contractors. Arnold’s Hauling can time our tear-out services to align with your next installation phase, helping avoid downtime and delays. We also offer site prep services such as grading or debris clearing to ensure your contractor has a clean slate to work from. We’re happy to provide progress photos or documentation if your team isn’t on-site. Communication and coordination are central to our customer experience.