Building demolition is tearing down a structure using planned or controlled methods. A demolition Boston, MA involves more than just swinging a wrecking ball; it requires highly skilled professionals working with debris, weather, materials, mass, and physics. Depending on the type of building being demolished, different methods are used.

Explosive Demolition

There are many ways to demolish a building, but explosive demolition is the most dramatic. Explosive demolition is accomplished by blasting the main support structures of a building, allowing the upper portion of the building to fall over the lower part. This method causes the least damage to the surrounding area and can be completed in as little as eight seconds.

This method places the explosive in a series of tiny holes drilled into the structure. The blast crews then work their way up the building, placing the explosive at strategic points that will determine the speed and safety of the collapse. For example, explosives are usually placed in and around the central support structures to reduce the risk of sideways collapse.

Implosions are also a popular method for demolition. However, they create a large amount of dust and require more explosives than the other methods. Nevertheless, implosions are a popular choice for the demolition of large structures, and they are typically used in urban areas.

Manual Demolition

Manual demolition is a method for demolishing buildings and structures without using explosives. This method is ideal for small structures and confined spaces. Contractors usually carry out this process. A wrecking ball is a common tool for this process. However, hydraulic excavators can also undermine and collapse a building.

The difference between manual and mechanical demolition lies in the tools used and the method of demolition. Manual demolition involves the use of hand tools. During demolition, it is best to keep some of the original components of the building. This way, you can avoid damaging the structure’s fabric or contents.

When using manual demolition, it is important to conduct an assessment to identify the hazards of the project. It will ensure the best safety precautions and procedures. For example, if you’re demolishing a building that contains asbestos or lead, you should practice careful abatement procedures.

Mechanical Demolition

Mechanical demolition involves using heavy machinery to remove structures from buildings. Some safety measures must be taken when performing these works, including using a safe work method statement to outline the hazards and control measures. A thorough assessment of the building’s condition is also required to avoid unexpected collapses.

Workers are also exposed to some hazards during demolition, including the risks of falling through holes and edges and exposure to hazardous materials. Licensed demolition crews have the experience necessary to recognize and mitigate health risks and keep projects on schedule. Choosing the right demolition crew can make all the difference. You can rest assured that a licensed crew will do a professional job and ensure the process is done safely and efficiently.

Compared to manual demolition, mechanical demolition is faster and more effective. In addition, because it involves fewer workers, it is a more cost-effective way to destroy a building. However, there are risks involved, such as exposure to debris, falling from heights, and crush injuries.

Selective Demolition

Selective demolition removes a building’s structural elements without demolishing the whole structure. It is the most suitable option for buildings that need to be remodeled but cannot be torn down completely. Expert demolition teams perform the work carefully and follow guidelines to ensure safety. The process also involves shutting down utilities.

This type of demolition is also known as strip-out because it allows the building to be deconstructed in sections, allowing building materials to be recycled or reused in new buildings. This method aims to recover as many primary and secondary building materials as possible. However, this process can be labor-intensive, especially when the building is light-framed.

Selective demolition has many benefits. The demolition process preserves reusable materials while removing hazardous ones. These materials can be stored for later use or sent to recycling facilities for disposal. Selective demolition also requires the creation of an egress path. An expert demolition team can ensure that the path is free from obstacles.