When it comes time to consider whether or not to hire a demolition company, questions may come to mind as to what services such companies offer. Depending on the nature of demolition work you require, it’s important to understand the breadth as well as the limitations of services offered by a typical demolition company. As well, not all companies offer the same services or may be limited in some aspects because they lack the appropriate machinery and other equipment. Be sure to inquire of each demolition company if they offer the particular services that you need for your project. When they provide a quote, request that they do so in writing and if you have any questions, ask. If their responses make you uncomfortable asking questions or voicing concerns, consider hiring a different demolition company.
Is all demolition performed on the same scale?
No. There are various categories of demolition, which one could categorize as full, selective, and damage mitigation.
· Full demolition. When a building is torn down, it is an example of full demolition. How the building is torn down will depend on a number of factors: the proximity of nearby buildings, the size of the building, city codes, and the preferred methods of the demolition company.
o For tearing down multi-story buildings, a demolition company will often use cranes and an excavator as well as bulldozers to remove the debris and level the site.
o For tearing down buildings with certain types of materials such as stone and brick, a demolition company may opt to use a traditional wrecking ball. If precision demolition is necessary, such as when the building is in close proximity to others, other types of equipment may be more efficient. Silenced rock breakers and rotational sheers are often used in those scenarios.
· Selective demolition. When a building does not need to be torn down in its entirety, but one or more sections need to be removed, this is known as a selective demolition. Remodeling projects are a common example of this. In some cases, before a new addition can be joined to the existing structure, selective demolition must be performed in order to make that possible. Similarly, if homeowners wish to “pop” the roof in order to add an additional floor, the roof and existing story must be removed and/or modified to accommodate the change.
· Damage mitigation. If it is determined that a home contains materials which are damaged from storms, a tree falling on it, or from age, or if there is asbestos present which must be removed, a demolition company may be called upon to perform this work. In situations where asbestos is present and will be disturbed or must be removed, the demolition company should be certified and trained in removing it safely. Other common forms of damage mitigation include fire or water damage, termites, mold, or lead paint that needs to be removed. Like asbestos removal, mold and lead paint removal should also be handled by a demolition company that is trained and equipped to remove and properly dispose of the debris.
When choosing a Los Angeles asbestos contractor, be certain they have the expertise, equipment, and knowledge to adequate perform the job you need them to complete.
Thanks to Nielsen Environmental for their insight into demolition services and what types are available.
