Using a Contractor to Improve Your Home

3 Issues to Address Before Demolishing a House

Demolition is an important step in any construction project. If you have a piece of property with an old house that is no longer appealing, you have to pull it down and create room for a new structure. That said, there is more to a demolition project than what many homeowners think. Before the demolition contractors come to your house and start the project, there is a lot that will go into the preparation process. This article will look into some of the issues that you should be aware of and prepared for when planning for a demolition project.

The presence of ACM

When demolishing an old structure, you should be aware of the inherent risks associated with it. One of such is the exposure to asbestos-containing materials (ACM). If the structure was built before the 90s, the chances are that it contains asbestos. When exposed to the air and inhaled, asbestos fibres can cause mesothelioma cancer and other respiratory complications. You need to organize for an asbestos inspection before the demolition project. If asbestos is indeed present, a specialized team will come in and get rid of the hazardous materials before you can proceed with demolishing the structure.

The presence of lead

Asbestos is not the only toxic material that you should be worried about during a demolition. Lead can also be present in the paint used on your structure. Before the 90s, materials such as lead and asbestos were highly preferred in construction due to their durability. Unfortunately, when it was discovered that these substances are harmful to human health, a lot of structures had already been constructed. Lead paint can cause poisoning when inhaled. Unfortunately, during a demolition, it is easy to inhale this substance. That's why you need an expert to inspect your property for lead in the paint, roofing structure, and plumbing pipes.

Damage to adjacent structures

Demolition projects can cause damage to nearby structures. That's why the local council will ask about the pre-demolition measures you have put in place to prevent such occurrences. For example, debris can fall on adjacent structures and cause damage. Also, failure to shut off water on the property can lead to water damage to nearby structures, especially if the excavator hits the plumbing pipes. You also need to take note of the septic system and the possibility that it may be containing wastewater. Work with your demolition contractor to address these issues that could cause problems with your project.

A successful demolition project requires careful planning to ensure that all hazardous materials are removed and that adjacent buildings are safe from damage. An experienced contractor can help you come up with a feasible plan that will maximize safety.


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