Flooring — FAQ
What's the difference between SDS-plus and SDS-max floor scrapers?
SDS-plus scrapers fit rotary hammers up to 15 lbs with smaller shanks for residential work. SDS-max handles heavy demolition hammers over 15 lbs, delivering 2-3x more impact energy for commercial demolition. The shank sizes are not interchangeable.
Can I use Bosch floor scrapers on non-Bosch rotary hammers?
Yes. Bosch SDS-plus and SDS-max scrapers follow industry standards and work with Makita, Dewalt, Hilti, and other brands. Hex shank scrapers fit any tool with matching 1-1/8-inch hex chuck. Always verify your hammer's chuck type before purchasing.
How long do floor scraper bits typically last?
Professional-grade bits last 1,000-2,000 square feet depending on material hardness. Ceramic tile and thinset wear blades faster than vinyl or wood. Budget bits may last 300-500 square feet. Replacement blades restore performance at 40% of new bit cost.
Is a wider blade always better for floor scraping?
Not necessarily. 6-inch blades cover more area but reduce precision along walls and in tight spaces. 5-inch blades offer better control for residential work. Choose width based on your project's scale and need for edge accuracy versus speed.
Do I need a replacement kit or just the scraper bit?
Buy the scraper bit first. Replacement kits make sense after you've dulled your initial blade or for contractors running daily demos. Kits include new bolts and locknuts that wear over time. DIYers may never need replacements.
Hex shank vs SDS — which system performs better?
SDS systems (plus/max) offer better energy transfer and faster bit changes with less slippage. Hex shank works with more common demolition hammers but may loosen under extreme vibration. For flooring removal, SDS-plus provides the best balance of power and convenience.
