How To Demolish Commercial Buildings?

Demolition is an important part of most new construction activities. Most older buildings need to be torn down in parts or whole for newer masterpieces to arise. The extent of demolition on each construction project will depend on the existing structure and the goal.

To keep your project moving and on time, you’ll need Gresham’s top rated demolition contractor to work with you on your demolition project. In this article, we go over the essential information you should know ahead of the demolition project. The key areas discussed include;

• The different types of commercial demolition services
• How to demolish commercial buildings
• How much does a demolition service cost

The different types of commercial demolition services

Commercial demolition services are delicate and essential to give rise to new development structures. The different types of this service are based on the extent of the demolition. They include the following;

Total demolition 

A total commercial building demolition involves completely removing the old structure to give rise to a bare canvas for newer construction activities. This demolition service is recommended for people looking to repurpose the land or building for entirely new goals. For example, a restaurant may be demolished and turned into an apartment complex for rental purposes.

It is important to note that layout changes and differences are the top factors that necessitate a total demolition service.

Partial demolition

Partial demolition is one of the commonest services rendered by demolition contractors worldwide. Such a service aims to break some parts of an existing structure to fit into a new architectural plan or goal. Construction professionals mostly advise this demolition service because of its cost-effectiveness – both to the project and the project owner.

Partial demolition can be very technical, especially as the contractor has to understand where to demolish and how to maintain the structural integrity of the remaining parts after demolition.

Interior demolition

Interior demolition is another cost-effective way of remodeling a property to meet a newer goal. This is common with buildings whose structures aren’t a perfect fit for the new purposes. The construction contractor may keep the building’s structure but may require a few modifications here and there – inside the building to achieve the desired outcome.

An example of interior demolition could be office floor plan conversions. This may involve breaking down the interior walls and partitions to create an open floor plan for specific business needs.

Deconstruction

This is perhaps the most systematic and technical aspect of demolition. The deconstruction process can be partial, total, or involve interior demolition, depending on the project’s outcome. With this process, the demolition contractor aims to tear the building apart but keep its construction materials in good shape.

The process is often delicate to avoid extensive damage to existing construction materials which may be used to save costs on the remodeling or renovation project. It is important to note that this demolition approach can be time-consuming.

How to demolish commercial buildings

Demolishing a commercial building requires combining the right equipment, experience, and expertise. Below are the steps required.

Permits acquisition

Every construction or demolition activity requires the contractors to obtain a permit. Speak to your local building department on how to obtain a demolition permit or have the contractor pull the permit.

Clear out the building

Building preparation is an essential part of the demolition process. Start clearing out the building as soon as you’ve decided on the project’s direction. It is important to sort the junks and hire appropriate removal companies to dispose of them. You can also move the valuables to a self-storage facility.

Observe safety precautions

Demolition sites, like every other construction and heavy machinery project, can be dangerous. Ensure that the contractor you’ve hired is licensed and insured. Also, ensure the demolition contractor has considered all aspects of the project and the safety requirement for the project.

Begin demolition

Begin the demolition process as soon as you’ve cleared the building, obtained a permit, and implemented all required safety features. Ensure that the demolition contractor has the required experience and expertise to do the job, whether you’re planning a total, partial, or interior demolition.

Debris removal

Demolition debris is also a part of construction debris. You should have discussed with the demolition contractor regarding whose responsibility it is to get rid of the demolition waste. Some demolition contractors offer waste disposal and site clearing as part of their services, while others do not.

If you’re in charge of waste disposal, ensure that the right construction waste disposal company has been contracted to remove the waste quickly and avoid accidents on the site.

How much does a demolition service cost?

The cost of a demolition service varies depending on many factors, including the following;

• Average demolition charges by location
• The cost of demolition permits
• The size of the demolition project
• The building’s construction material
• The presence of hazardous materials or the need for remediation services
• The cost of debris removal or recycling.

All of these costs can add up to the total cost incurred on your next demolition project. Speak to your demolition contractor to have an idea of what the project may cost ahead of time.