Internationally, concrete sees a lot more use in residential construction. Still, we rely on it extensively for commercial buildings and much of our infrastructure. According to a report by the USGS, 2023 cement production reached roughly 88 million metric tons in the United States. Consumption of cement reached approximately 120 million metric tons in the same timeframe. When we’re talking about that many cement products in this country alone, any innovative advances in tools, accessories, or technology are a welcome addition.
Whether mixing, forming, cutting, or curing concrete, the tools below make it more efficient. Winners also aid post-cure drilling, fastening, and everything in between. Check out the 2024 Pro Tool Innovation Award winners for the Concrete and Masonry awards category. These tools, accessories, and products should help you work more quickly, efficiently, and/or safely.
Winner – Chemical Anchors
DEWALT DFC114121 PURE220+™ Premium Epoxy Anchor
What they said:
The new PURE220+™ Premium Adhesive Anchoring Epoxy (DFC114110, DFC114121) is an exceptionally strong 1:1 chemical anchor that is Made in the USA with global materials. It is the first to carry a diamond core drilled hole approval for both cracked and uncracked concrete (approval expected Q3 2023) and will not require a roughening tool pre-installation, removing an installation step and thus saving time.
PURE220+™ is part of our DUSTX+™ system, which pairs the adhesive anchor with the new DEWALT 10 Gallon Dust Extractor (DWV015), Hollow Bit Range, and Portable Power Station (DCB1800), delivering premium and portable dustless installation. PURE220+™ has an easy-to-dispense formulation that aids in cold-weather dispensing when paired with DEWALT 20V MAX* cordless dispensing or manual dispensing options.
What we say:
PURE220+ Premium Adhesive Anchoring Epoxy is a 1:1 chemical anchor that stands out as the first to receive approval for use in both cracked and uncracked concrete with diamond core drilled holes. This removes the need for a roughening tool and reduces installation time. Part of the DUSTX+ system, it ensures a clean, dust-free installation when paired with DEWALT’s dust extraction tools. Additionally, it flows smoothly even in temperatures down to -40°, making it a versatile year-round solution for concrete professionals.
Price: $28.61 (20.5 oz)
For more information, click here.
Winner – Core Drill
DEWALT DCPS150AG 60V MAX 3-Speed Core Drill Kit with POWERSHIFT™
What they said:
Complete challenging coring jobs with the 60V MAX* 3-Speed Core Drill Kit with DEWALT POWERSHIFT™ that offers an epic power-to-weight ratio. As a part of the PERFORM & PROTECT™ lineup of products, this Core Drill features the ANTI-ROTATION System that senses the rotational motion of the tool and shuts it down if the motion is excessive. Core up to 6 in. holes in reinforced concrete and use the 3-speed gear selector to help optimize performance. With the closest to wall or to ceiling clearance in industry, this core drill and stand system helps create clean and tight pass throughs for pipe.
The DEWALT POWERSHIFT™ Core Drill and Stand is kitted with (2) DEWALT POWERSHIFT™ DCBP0554 554Wh packs and a DEWALT POWERSHIFT™ charger and in less than an hour, you can recharge a DEWALT POWERSHIFT™ pack to 100%. The DEWALT POWERSHIFT™ Backpack Vibrator features TOOL CONNECT™ technology which allows you to protect, monitor, assign and keep track of your tools across multiple jobsites via the Site Manager app. All DEWALT POWERSHIFT™ tools are also enable with utilization technology to provide actionable data to help you make decisions and keep your fleet as productive as possible.
What we say:
The 60V DeWalt 3-Speed Core Drill Kit with Powershift can core up to 6-inch holes in reinforced concrete. The Anti-Rotation System automatically shuts down the tool if it detects excessive motion. We like the removable wheels for transport, reversible carriage wheels, and easy adjustability. The tool is easy to place and lock down, and DeWalt included four leveling screws and an integrated vial to make sure you drill straight. Everything is very user-friendly, and the tool can also pair wirelessly with an external water tank to automatically supply water when drilling.
Price:: $4,599
For more information, click here.
Winner – Cutting Wheels
DEWALT DW47227 ELITE SERIES™ 4.5 in. All-Purpose Diamond Blade
What they said:
UP TO 5X LONGER LIFE** – Take on demanding jobs and get up to 5X longer life** with this blade that features a high-concentration of manufactured diamonds. FAST, SMOOTH CUTS – Make fast, smooth cuts with a unique serrated blade design that helps prevent friction. PRECISION RESULTS – Get top-of-the-line performance with a streamlined design that helps cool the high-alloy steel core.
What we say:
We recognized the DeWalt High-Concentration Diamond Blade for delivering up to 5X longer life compared to Norton 4.5-inch segmented blade. Designed with a unique serrated edge, this blade reduces friction to cut more quickly, making it ideal for a wide variety of concrete and masonry cuts.
Price: $39.98
For more information, click here.
Winner – Demo Bits
Klein Tools 32755SD Demolition Driver Set
What they said:
Klein Tools Demolition Driver Set (32755SD) offers ultimate durability and adaptability for prying, demolition, and screwdriving. The set includes the first ever interchangeable pry bar, which seamlessly transitions between a demo handle and an SDS+ hammer drill, offering unmatched versatility for professional tradesmen. The multi-bit set includes a variety of essential tips: a pointed chisel tip, a flat chisel tip, a slotted driver tip, and a nail puller, ensuring you have the right tool for every job. Additionally, the included adapter allows you to use 1/4″ impact bits directly in the handle, further expanding its functionality.
Designed with convenience in mind, the demo handle is compatible with all SDS-Plus bits. The Heavy-Duty Flared Cushion-Grip™ handle provides superior protection and comfort when hammering on the oversized striking cap. For optimal organization and convenience, the demolition driver set comes in a MODbox™ compatible and stackable case, keeping all your accessories neatly arranged and readily accessible.
What we say:
The Klein Tools Demolition Driver Set lets you seamlessly swap bits between the included demo handle and an SDS+ hammer drill. The multi-bit set includes essential tips such as pointed and flat chisels, a slotted driver, and a nail puller. It also includes an interchangeable pry bar. We like the cushion-grip handle with metal running throughout the length, as well as the fact that Klein made the case compatible with its newest MODbox storage and organization system.
Price: $50
For more information, click here.
Winner – Cordless Demo Hammers
DEWALT DCH966Z2 60V MAX 41 pound Cordless HEX Breaker Hammer
What they said:
This DeWalt 60V 41 pound Cordless HEX Breaker Hammer Delivers up to 41 Joules of energy+ for applications including powered digging, channel creation, and slab demolition. This tool delivers up to 1,000 BPM with a chipping range up to 8 inches. Redesigned 1-1/8″ Hex Tool Holder For Faster Accessory Insertion and Removal.
The integrated SHOCKS Active Vibration Control system is designed to minimize vibration felt at the handles compared to chipping hammers without this feature. WIRELESS TOOL CONTROL technology enables the user to link the tool to the DCV585 60-Volt MAX dust extractor (sold separately) for remote extractor activation. This cordless breaker hammer comes Tag Ready, so individuals and companies can attach a DEWALT Tag (sold separately) to track its location via the DEWALT Tool Connect app.
What we say:
The DeWalt 60V Cordless Hex Breaker Hammer delivers up to 41 Joules of energy and 1,000 BPM. This 41-pound breaker provides cordless freedom for jobs like powered digging, channel creation, and slab demolition. Its redesigned 1-1/8″ Hex Tool Holder makes for quick accessory changes. The integrated Shocks Active Vibration Control system reduces vibration at the handles—an important feature for a large demo hammer. Additionally, DeWalt gives users wireless integration with their dust extractors, and the tool is ready for tracking using the DEWALT Tool Connect app.
Price: $1,499
For more information, click here.
Winner – Cordless Dust Extractors
Milwaukee M18 FUEL™ PACKOUT™ 9 Gallon Dual-Battery Dust Extractor w/ VACLINK™
What they said:
The M18 FUEL™ PACKOUT™ 9 Gallon Dual-Battery Dust Extractor w/ VACLINK™ sets the standard for cordless dust extractors with strong performance and unmatched versatility. The Automatic Filter Cleaning mechanism provides HIGHEST SUSTAINED AIR FLOW to maintain productivity during dust extraction applications. This mechanism paired with (2) HEPA Filters, delivers OSHA Table 1 Compliance. This dust extractor has VERSATILE POWER with corded and cordless capabilities for all day productivity.
With VACLINK™, a wireless dust control technology, compatible tools and remotes connect to the dust extractor, allowing for activation from the dust producing application for increased efficiency. The POWERSTATE™ Brushless Motor delivers 125 CFM on (2) M18™ Batteries and 175 CFM when plugged in. On (2) kitted M18™ REDLITHIUM™ FORGE™ HD12.0 Batteries, MAX POWER MODE delivers up to 41 minutes of continuous cleaning and 78 minutes on MAX RUN-TIME MODE.
Optimized for concrete dust, drywall dust and sawdust, the low flow indicator communicates if flow drops below optimal performance. Also capable of wet clean-up, water sensors indicate if the tank is full. The included 36mm x 10’ anti-static hose and attached hose clip connects to included power tool and table saw adapters that allow for efficient dust collection when paired with other tools. This extractor is PACKOUT™ compatible for convenient transportation and storage and offers ONE-KEY™ track and manage compatibility for tool management.
What we say:
The Milwaukee M18 Fuel Packout 9-gallon dual-battery dust extractor includes VacLink, a wireless system that lets you connect your compatible battery-powered tools to the vac for remote operation while drilling, sanding, or chipping. The dust extractor also includes automatic filter cleaning to keep up airflow while working. Dual HEPA filters let it meet OSHA Table 1 compliance standards, and you get 125 CFM when using batteries and 175 CFM when plugged into an outlet. That’s not a limitation on battery power capabilities so much as a method of extending runtime. Packout and One-Key compatibility just sweeten the appeal of this pro-focused system.
Price: $1,300
For more information, click here.
Winner – Nailers
Hilti BX 4-22 Cordless Concrete Nailer
What they said:
The BX 4-22 Cordless concrete nailer is the newest rendition of Hilti’s cordless direct fastening solutions. Its performance upgrades, powered by the Nuron 22V cordless platform, enable workers to drive up to 1,000 nails per hour with less noise, recoil, and maintenance compared to gas-actuated fastening. Engineered for better handling, the BX 4-22’s design also includes a balanced grip, short stroke, and LED light to help users work more comfortably when driving hundreds of nails per day. The BX 4-22 is equipped with angled and detachable magazines, available in various sizes, to further enhance the tool’s application range. In addition to these innovative features, workers can pair the BX 4-22 with its compatible pole tools to complete suspended applications from the ground, creating a safer jobsite by reducing the need to work on a ladder.
What we say:
Hilti’s BX 4-22 Cordless Concrete Nailer delivers up to 1,000 nails per hour using a Nuron 22V battery. It functions with low noise and recoil and requires far less maintenance compared to gas-actuated concrete nailers. An ergonomic design features a balanced grip, short stroke, and LED light. You also get a handy scaffold hook to hang up the tool when needed. Additionally, Hilti gives you three tool-free detachable angled magazine options to expand its application range to steel, concrete, etc. The tool is also compatible with pole tools, so you can work on suspended applications from the ground, minimizing ladder use.
Price: $949
For more information, click here.
Winner – Rammers
Milwaukee MXF270-2HD MX FUEL™ 70 kg Rammer
What they said:
Our MX FUEL™ 70 kg Rammer is the most productive and easiest to use. The POWERSTATE™ Brushless Motor delivers the power to hit harder and travel faster for maximum productivity without sacrificing compaction performance. The rammer compactor provides no gas headaches with push button start and no engine to maintain, reducing downtime and allowing you to get jobs done faster. No gas engine means fewer wearable parts, less noise and vibration, and zero emissions mean a safer workplace indoors and in trenches. For greater control and easier maneuverability, our centralized user interface provides you simple start/stop and fast/slow travel speeds.
AUTOSTOP™ technology enhances safety by automatically shutting off the rammer in case it tips over. The MX FUEL™ REDLITHIUM™ FORGE™ HD12.0 Battery gives you 25 minutes of continuous runtime or over a 1/4 mile of compaction. REDLINK PLUS™ Intelligence ensures optimal performance and overload protection for your machine and battery during the toughest applications. Both the MX FUEL™ REDLITHIUM™ FORGE™ HD12.0 Battery & MX FUEL™ Super Charger are COOL-CYCLE™ Capable to provide high-speed cooling for less downtime. If your rammer is ever lost or stolen, you can prevent tampering with remote lockout capability. The MILWAUKEE® MX FUEL™ 70 kg Rammer is fully compatible with ONE-KEY™ and our MX FUEL™ Equipment System.
What we say:
The MX Fuel 70 kg Rammer delivers battery-powered compaction with the performance of gas. You get the convenience of a push-button start and reduced maintenance and downtime. With 25 minutes of runtime using an HD12.0 battery, you can tackle up to 1/4 mile per change. A centralized user interface provides easy control, while AutoStop technology ensures safety by shutting off the rammer if it tips over. One-Key compatibility means you can add it to your tool inventory system and even use remote lockout capabilities to enhance security on the jobsite.
Price: $6,499
For more information, click here.
Finalist
Winner – Rebar Cutters
Hilti NRC 6-22 Cordless rebar cutter
What they said:
The NRC 6-22 Cordless rebar cutter helps boost productivity, safety and precision when trimming rebar and cutting threaded rods. Its extra-thin XCut rebar blades are designed with extra teeth to help increase cutting speed without compromising accuracy—flushing cuts up to 1/8” to the surface with a burr-free finish. The enhanced blade configurations not only help workers save time by virtually eliminating the need for additional finishing work, but also reduce sparks, chipping, adhesion, and heat build-up to help reduce fire hazards. For added safety, the NRC 6-22 is also outfitted with a fully enclosed blade guard and adjustable 3-position side handle to help users work more safely and securely while cutting.
What we say:
The Hilti NRC 6-22 Cordless Rebar Cutter uses extra-thin XCut blades with additional teeth to speed up cuts and allow burr-free flush cuts up to 1/8” to the surface. This design both reduces the need for finishing work after the cut and minimizes sparks and heat build-up. The fully enclosed blade guard and adjustable 3-position side handle further enhance user safety, making the NRC 6-22 a compelling tool for concrete professionals or even anyone cutting lots of threaded rod.
Price: $799
For more information, click here.
Winner – Cordless Rotary Hammers
Milwaukee M18 FUEL™ Overhead Rotary Hammer w/Integrated Dust Extraction
What they said:
The M18 FUEL™ Overhead Rotary Hammer w/ Integrated Dust Extraction is a new-to-world solution optimized for ceiling drilling. This 2-in-1 design delivers improved ergonomics for overhead work compared to traditional rotary hammer and dust extractor attachments, while maintaining Table 1 compliance. This SDS Plus rotary hammer provides several new features that keep operators productive and comfortable for repetitive drilling overhead. The built-in dust extractor creates a compact, lightweight tool with optimized balance for less fatigue.
The newly designed side handle, now located near the rear handle, allows the operator to maintain better body posture throughout the application. The handle can be inserted on the left or right of the tool and can be collapsed for easy storage. AUTOSTOP™ Kickback control offers enhanced safety for the operator by preventing over-rotation in a bind-up.
With ONE-KEY™, users can choose between default and low sensitivity settings for AUTOSTOP™ feature, in addition to tool tracking and management. The M18 FUEL™ Overhead Rotary Hammer w/ Integrated Dust Extraction provides simplified dust compliance and superior ergonomics, while still delivering best-in-class performance. The POWERSTATE™ Brushless motor provides fastest drilling for small ceiling anchors and enough power to complete up to 5/8” holes in concrete.
What we say:
The Milwaukee M18 Fuel Overhead Rotary Hammer features integrated dust extraction to ensure compliance with OSHA Table 1 standards. You get an integrated shroud as well as a removable dust bin and HEPA filter. A newly positioned side handle sits behind the motor on either the left or right side of the main handle. It drastically improves ergonomics during overhead use by letting you use both hands to adequately support the tool while drilling. Additionally, the AutoStop kickback system prevents over-rotation in the event the bit suddenly stops due to rebar or some other obstruction. Finally, One-Key functionality means you can customize the settings and benefit from inventory control and tool tracking features.
Price: $599
For more information, click here.
Winner – Power Screeds
DEWALT DCPS330AG2 POWERSHIFT Concrete Power Screed
What they said:
The DEWALT POWERSHIFT™ Power Screed delivers the power to level and smoothen the surfaces of the stiffest slumped concrete. This power screed has the power to break a fresh cold joint delivered via its variable-speed trigger that offers 0–7,800 VPM at a moment’s notice. This screed delivers superior ergonomics with adjustable height and width of the handlebars plus controls that can be mounted left or right and 180 degrees of rotation if needed. This piece of commercial concrete equipment has a direct bolt up for 9” hole spaced L-Shape bars and includes adapters to support the 3 most commonly used bar/board styles, so there’s no need to replace, just bolt up and go.
The DEWALT POWERSHIFT™ Power Screed kitted with (2) DEWALT POWERSHIFT™ DCBP0554 554Wh packs and a DEWALT POWERSHIFT™ charger, and in less than an hour, you can recharge a DEWALT POWERSHIFT™ pack to 100%. The DEWALT POWERSHIFT™ Backpack Vibrator features TOOL CONNECT™ technology which allows you to protect, monitor, assign, and keep track of your tools across multiple jobsites via the Site Manager app. All DEWALT POWERSHIFT™ tools are also enabled with utilization technology to provide actionable data to help you make decisions and keep your fleet as productive as possible.
What we say:
DeWalt’s Powershift Power Screed brings a new cordless solution to the jobsite, tackling even tough slumped concrete. This new screed features a variable speed trigger and delivers up to 7,800 VPM. It easily has enough force to break fresh cold joints. The ergonomic design integrates adjustable handlebars and customizable controls. You can direct-bolt any L-shape power screed boards with a 9-inch hole pattern—the included adapters support the 3 most commonly used bar/board styles. Lastly, Tool Connect technology integrates this tool with your inventory system and provides basic tool management across your jobsites.
Price: $2,699
For more information, click here.
Winner – Vibrators
DEWALT DCPS310AG2 POWERSHIFT™ Backpack Vibrator
What they said:
The DEWALT POWERSHIFT™ Backpack Vibrator delivers the power, ergonomics, and run time that you need to tackle the most demanding placements. The vibrator has the power to deliver 2-1/4” head performance and a consistent 12,000 VPM to handle the stiffest slump. The ergonomic hi-vis harness accommodates users from XS to XXXL length torsos, which lands the weight on the hips vs. your back for reduced fatigue and at less than gas weight to help with those long days. This vibrator has 16 head and shaft combinations available, which include 1-1/2”, 1.3/4”, 2”, and 2-1/2” heads and shafts at 7’, 10’, 16, and 21’, to complete the day’s work.
The DEWALT POWERSHIFT™ Backpack Vibrator is kitted with (2) DEWALT POWERSHIFT™ DCBP0554 554Wh packs and a DEWALT POWERSHIFT™ charger and in less than an hour, you can recharge a DEWALT POWERSHIFT™ pack to 100%. The DEWALT POWERSHIFT™ Backpack Vibrator features TOOL CONNECT™ technology which allows you to protect, monitor, assign, and keep track of your tools across multiple jobsites via the Site Manager app. All DEWALT POWERSHIFT™ tools are also enabled with utilization technology to provide actionable data to help you make decisions and keep your fleet as productive as possible.
What we say:
The DeWalt Powershift Backpack Vibrator delivers 12,000 VPM and supports up to a 2-1/4” head and 21-foot shaft. DeWalt designed it to tackle even the stiffest slump. The adjustable ergonomic hi-vis harness fits a wide range of sizes, distributing the bulk of the tool weight to your hips. Offering 16 head and shaft combinations, it adapts to various job requirements. Equipped with DeWalt Powershift batteries and Tool Connect technology, you should get excellent runtime, quick recharging, and enhanced tool management across multiple jobsites.
Price: $2,999
For more information, click here.