Demolition for residential and commercial properties includes various steps to assess health and safety risks, as well as the job site and debris removal strategies. Hazardous materials like asbestos will require additional tools and equipment like high-quality respirators. Here is more information on how these types of projects are done:
Initial Assessment and Preparation
A licensed demolition contractor will first assess the property and building to begin planning deconstruction. Some buildings require the removal of hazardous insulation materials or lead pipes before the full project begins. Contractors are also able to retrieve valuable assets like copper or recyclable wooden beams for the property owner beforehand. Additional metals available for recycling include stainless steel, aluminum, and brass.
This step in the process is necessary to plan the initial layout of the jobsite. Heavy equipment and transportation trailers will need to be able to access the property, which may require dismantling existing fencing. Dumpsters and dump trucks will also need to be put into place on-site to allow for hauling and disposal.
Appropriate signage and barriers will be set up to stay within the state and federal law requirements. Orange barrels and cones help to re-direct traffic to keep them at a safe distance. Construction fencing keeps the general public off of the job site and obstructs their view of the project.
Demolition and Disposal
There are different methods for dismantling an existing building or structure, including using an excavator or wrecking ball. Excavators are useful for removing specific areas of a building as they are easier to control than other methods. Once an operator has enough debris, they will then move it into a dumpster or dump truck for disposal. Concrete, steel, and bricks may require heavy-duty vehicles to handle the weight safely on the road.
Workers use sledgehammers and saws to remove a building’s interior structures, like drywall and flooring. This stage of the project is usually loud and messy. Specific equipment like eye protection, ear plugs, and respirators keep workers safe as they work. Pets and children should be kept away from the construction site to avoid stepping on nails or broken glass.
Clean Up
After a full deconstruction is complete, the excavation crew will remove any remaining debris and begin to level the property. Grading the ground prevents standing water from forming by allowing it to naturally run off towards the curb and gutters. A flat ground is beneficial for new construction as further excavation can begin immediately.
Safety equipment, including signage and temporary fencing, is then removed from the site. This is when they clean up any parking areas, repaint lines, and address any other damages. The property is now ready for new on-site construction or for listing new real estate.
Contact a Licensed Demolition Professional
A licensed demolition contractor is able to do various kinds of projects, from total building deconstruction to pool removal. When reaching out to a contractor, it can be beneficial to include overhead maps and blueprints for an accurate assessment. Contact a contractor today to begin your deconstruction project.