Demolition can be a very exciting and at the same time stressful phase of any renovation or construction project.
Normally, for a complete demolition, a home can come down and be entirely removed from the site within a few days; for a thorough remodelling or smaller scale renovation project the entire demolition process can be completed within a week. Demolition is typically loud, fast and messy; it’s not necessarily stress-free and straightforward. There’s actually quite a bit to know about demolition; beginning demolition without a clear strategy can have significant time and financial consequences later on.
Conditions and variables change with each project. That being said, here are a few things we suggest you take into consideration:
Permits.
Some projects require permits and demolition is obvious when a container is delivered outside your home.
Trying to do it yourself.
While we encourage you to be involved as much as possible in any project, sometimes the demolition is not simple and doing it yourself may not be as cost-effective as it seems. In some cases you have to prepare the site by covering floors and sealing rooms, for example. An experienced crew knows what to keep and what to tear-out. Your contractor will know best what to preserve and the liability is clear and direct.
Talk to your neighbors before your project begins.
During the demolition portion of your project, there will be a bit of noise and some mess; having the understanding and patience of your neighbors can go a long way.
Living in your house during your project.
Even with the necessary precautions there is still going to be dust no matter what. If you or your family is sensitive to dust we suggest sectioning part of the house or, even better, an entire floor, if leaving your home is not feasible.
Strip down the skeleton.
For most major renovations we recommend taking the walls, floors and ceilings down to the studs. Very often there is stuff hidden behind cavities from previous renovations. Demolition is the time to catch those questionable electrical connections and issues such as no insulation in the wall, leaking pipes and mold.
Due to the fact that there are so many unknowns during the demolition process, additional fees need to be considered from the onset or at least taken into account when planning a project. Once the demolition process is complete you and your contractor will have a better understanding of what you are dealing with and the costs involved.
Damasco is committed to working with you every step of the way. We are committed to meeting and exceeding your expectations.