As you are aware the process of demolition is all about tearing down all kinds of man-made structures, buildings and houses. Unlike deconstruction, demolition doesn’t involve careful taking apart of manmade structures. In deconstruction, a lot of elements of the structure and the surroundings are preserved so that they can be reused at a future date. Demolitions are typically carried out by demolition contractors who have the proper skill and experience to conduct the process. Demolition contractors are essential for large-scale demolitions because if demolition is not done correctly and in a planned manner, human lives can be at stake.
Reasons Why Demolition is Required
Demolition is required for a plethora of reasons. In some cases, demolition is required due to a court order for an illegal construction. In other cases, demolition may be required because the structure has become extremely old and dilapidated and requires demolition and reconstruction. An old building with a weak infrastructure can be extremely hazardous to human life. In such cases where repairs cannot help in strengthening the overall structure, demolition is the only option. Lastly, demolition can also be taken up in cases where the existing structure is too small, and the building needs to be expanded. In such cases, the existing structure is torn down and a new foundation is laid and constructed.
Methods of Demolition
There are several methods that can be undertaken to demolish a manmade structure. The most popular methods of demolition include implosion, high reach arm, crane and ball method and many others. Depending on the size and the overall structure of the building, the demolition contractors will take a call on how to smartly and safely take down the construction.
Process for Demolition of Buildings
When any building or manmade structure requires demolition, the demolition contractors will follow a process to ensure the tear down is conducted in a safe manner. The 4 main steps that are involved in the demolition of a building include surveying, removal of hazardous and dangerous materials from the area, planning and preparation and lastly safety measures.
Surveying of A Building for Demolition
The overall structure and the parameters of the building are carefully studied by the demolition team. This study or survey includes structural and building surveying.
Getting Rid of Hazardous Materials
Step two of the demolition process involves removing all kinds of hazardous materials from the site. Hazardous materials include petroleum contamination, asbestos minerals, radioactive materials and other such dangerous materials.
Creating A Proper Demolition Plan
The next step in the demolition process involves creating a proper demolition plan. The plan will mark important details like the exact location of the structure, the distance of the structure from important streets and buildings, the demolition procedure that will be undertaken, how the debris from demolition will be disposed and other important details.
Safety Measures
Lastly, a lot of safety measures are undertaken for the demolition process. Any goods that are susceptible to fire like wood, fuels, etc. are removed from the area. Fire extinguishers and other firefighting appliances are also kept handy at the site.
If you have been sent a demolition notice or are planning on tearing down an old home to construct a new one, keep in mind that demolition is no child’s play and requires professional guidance and safety measures. Hire a proper demolition contractor who has the necessary equipment like bulldozers and excavators to complete the job for you. Don’t try and complete the job yourself by installing explosives and blowing down the place as that may lead to casualties and fires.
