Do you work in the commercial construction industry? If so, then you understand how complicated and messy the process of erecting a new can be. This is especially true when you have to first demolish an existing structure. Building demolition requires plenty of planning, and you need to work with a crew that’s experienced in every facet of the operations.
This article takes a look at the most important things demolition contractors should do before beginning to tear down an old building. Keep reading to get this inside scoop.
1. Building Inspections
Let’s start by talking about the importance of hiring a professional building inspector prior to initiating a controlled demolition.
Keep in mind that old buildings are filled with materials that can be dangerous or toxic. A building inspector will know how to identify materials such as asbestos that can present long-term health issues to anyone exposed to them.
Demo work will create a lot of dust that will be inhaled by your crew, thus you want to make sure that everyone is as safe as possible. An experienced inspector will help you avoid surprises by sampling for HBMs and other common hazards.
2. Building Inventory
It’s also important to fully inventory the building that you are preparing to demo. After all, it’s a good idea to salvage everything possible for later use, to sell, or recycle.
Take the time to thoroughly inventory the building, carefully remove as many items as possible, including office equipment, office furniture, and anything else of value. Keep in mind that these items can easily be donated to a local charity or sold online.
3. Putting Together the Right Team
Never attempt to perform a controlled demolition without hiring professionals with years of experience in this type of work.
The demo process requires specific knowledge and experience for making sure the right equipment is used, the building implodes as desired, and keep the surroundings as safe as possible to prevent possible injury or damage to nearby buildings.
4. Safety First
When it coming to keeping your demo project as safe as possible, you need to interview the best demolition contractors in the area before hiring anyone.
Keep in mind that a demo site will be filled with dangers, including wrecking balls, sledgehammers, cranes, tons of dirt and dust, and loud noises, etc.
Thus it’s crucial to be fully insured to cover this type of project and ensure that your team is well-prepared and alert until the demo process is complete.
5. Contingency Planning
Always have a contingency plan. After all, anything that can go wrong typically will. And you need to make sure to have extra money budgeted for unexpected costs or problems such as flooding issues caused by busted pipes.
A Contractor’s Guide to a Safe and Efficient Demolition Project
There’s nothing easy about tearing down an old building to construct a new one. It’s important to follow all local safety codes and hire the best people for the job. Fortunately, these tips will help make your next demolition project a success.
Please contact us today to learn how we can play an important part in your construction project.
