You’ve probably heard of demolition, but what exactly is it and how do you go about it? Demolition is when a structure or building is removed from a property in order to make way for a new building. This process usually involves the use of a demolition crew or a contractor. It can be a dangerous job, however, and there are precautions that you need to take. Read on to learn more about demolition, its methods, and safety considerations.
Excavation vs demolition
If you’re involved in a construction project, you should be aware of the difference between demolition and excavation. Many people confuse these two activities. Although they share many similarities, they’re actually quite different in nature.
Demolition focuses on the demolition of an old building while excavation involves the excavation of earth. The process can be both manual and mechanical. Depending on the project, it may also be accompanied by backfilling.
While there are several steps to complete, one of the most important is marking the area where the new structure will be built. In addition, the site needs temporary fencing. Once the site is marked, the process of digging can begin.
Demolition is a relatively complex task. It requires professional help. A team of experts will have to figure out the best method of demolition before tearing down a building. This might involve clearing the site of vegetation or removing major obstacles like trees or utility lines.
There are numerous companies out there that can provide both excavation and demolition services. Some offer both, while others only provide one or the other. You’ll need to do your homework to find the right company.
While both are required to finish a construction project, they have their own merits. Both require specialized equipment and techniques. For instance, demolition requires a permit from local authorities. That said, the process is more methodical than excavation.
For the most part, the process for excavating the biggest hole in the ground is more or less the same. The process of breaking up soil and replacing it with topsoil is often done by a machine operator.
The process of drilling through the earth is more of a science than an art. It’s an excellent way to prepare a site for a new building. Several types of equipment are used to accomplish this, including augers, explosives, and powered equipment.
Among the many benefits of excavation is that it is usually accompanied by a number of other activities, such as backfilling. Normally, these tasks are based on the contractor’s plans.
Methods of demolition
There are many methods of demolition that can be used to remove a structure. These include mechanical and explosive devices. Each technique has its own set of risks and requires specific safety procedures to avoid accidents and damage.
The mechanical method involves using heavy equipment and equipment such as jack hammers and drills. It is useful for removing smaller structures or structures that are difficult to demolish. Typically, this method is used for structures that are less than two storeys high.
Wrecking ball demolition is a type of demolition method that uses a large, heavy ball of metal. This sphere is suspended on a cable from a crane. When the ball hits the concrete structure, it breaks the surface. This method is often used for buildings with masonry or mass concrete structures.
Hydraulic excavators are another type of demolition machine. They are especially effective against masonry. These machines are capable of breaking up and separating steel and concrete. Typically, this debris is separated into piles and transported off site.
A high pressure water jet is another common method of demolition. Water is sprayed at a high rate of pressure to break the concrete. This method can be effective for large-scale projects and is considered environmentally safe.
The most dramatic method of demolition is implosion. The building is weakened and collapses inward. Depending on the size and height of the building, this can be done from the top down or from the bottom up.
Selective demolition is another method in demolition contractors Atlanta GA. This type of demolition is used to allow builders to reclaim building materials or recycle them. Some structures may require asbestos remediation before being demolished.
Demolition of a building is a safety hazard, so it is important to conduct an investigation of the construction details to ensure a safe and proper demolition. This may involve shoring to support nearby foundations. An investigation also helps to avoid potential damage to the surrounding area.
During demolition, it is important to keep the surrounding areas free of debris. Debris is often deposited into a dumpster.
Safety precautions during demolition
Before you begin demolition work, you need to take a number of safety precautions. Demolition is a hazardous task that can lead to serious injury and death. By following a few simple steps, you can reduce the risk of an accident.
First and foremost, you must have a competent person in charge of the demolition project. This person needs to be an experienced demolition expert. You need to also make sure the right permits are in place.
A lot of effort goes into making sure the demolition site is safe. Safety measures include protective equipment, canopies and curbs around the floor openings. The contractor must also provide temporary supports.
There are many other hazards involved in this type of work. Using power tools and chemicals can create serious hazards. Wearing a hard hat is a must.
Other hazards include exposure to flammable gases. These can create fires and additional fire hazards.
In addition, water buildup is a major concern. Having a good drainage system is key. It should be maintained regularly.
Safety techniques and procedures must be outlined in a demolition plan. A pre-start meeting is a great way to guide workers and management.
To prevent accidents, all workmen must be wearing safety gear. For example, waterproof leggings and gloves are common.
There are other safety measures you can take, like having a safety helmet with an eye and face projection. Likewise, a thermal lance is an important tool that can help eliminate dust problems.
Proper training and hiring are other ways to protect your employees. Workers need to be trained in the proper use of demolition techniques.
Having a good plan is an essential part of any demolition project. While you cannot avoid all accidents, you can significantly lower the odds of injuries and other incidents.
Some of the best safety precautions include keeping your workers and the public away from the dangerous parts of the job. Ensure the surrounding area is free of debris and that walkways are properly lit.
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has regulations for demolition, including safety nets, overhead protection and the like. Be sure to follow all OSHA standards, and your employees will be protected.
Permits for demolition
If you intend to demolish a property, you must obtain a permit. Demolition permits differ from one municipality to another. Different types of structures require different criteria. In addition, the type of structure may be regulated by state or local regulations.
Demolition permits are typically issued for a 60-day period. This period begins the day you apply for the permit and ends when the demolition is complete. You must make sure that all work on your site is completed within the allotted time.
The City of Denver has developed a multi-agency process to ensure that demolition is safe and legal. When you apply for a demolition permit, you will need to provide a plot plan and other information. A grading plan must also be submitted. Detailed plans for erosion control and sediment control must be included on the grading plan. Also, you should submit a Pedestrian Protection Permit if there are pedestrians on the site.
Once you receive your demolition permit, you should remove any combustible materials from the site. This is particularly true of debris that cannot be reused as fill material. You should also remove any sanitary systems from the site.
In addition to the standard demolition requirements, you may be required to provide a Pedestrian Protection Permit. You will also need to secure a demolition bond. This is usually a refundable deposit that is returned to you at the end of the project.
An application for a demolition permit must be signed by all property owners. It must include the legal description of the building. This should be accompanied by drawings of the demolition grading plan and party walls. Other requirements may be imposed by the municipal council.
If you are unsure about whether you need a demolition permit, you should contact your local council. They can help you determine if a permit is needed and how long it will take. There is also an interactive map that provides a listing of residential demolition permits issued by the city.
If your project involves a historic resource overlay zone, you will need to provide additional notification.
