Getting the Job Done with Construction Contractors

Backyard Demolition Tips

17 August 2021 by Audrey Ramos

Backyard demolition works are essential when you intend to build a home extension or create extra space in your backyard. While demolition works seem straightforward on paper, it is not always the case at the site. The extract below offers some essential pointers to help out with your backyard demolition project. 

Determine The Extent Of The Demolition Works

What exactly do you intend to demolish? For example, it could be a balcony, deck, a patio adjoined to your house or a section of the house. The scope of these works will help determine the need for a demolition permit. In most Australian states, permits are required when the demolition affects structural members such as the pillars, slabs and roof. Determine the need for removals. For example, you should conduct asbestos abatement before the demolition. If you will pull down a section of the house (such as the kitchen), you should remove fixtures such as the cabinets, sinks, counters and appliances. 

Establish A Proper Demolition Method

More often than not, backyard demolition works are small-scale. Therefore, you may not need crawler excavators, wrecking balls or explosions. In contrast, small plat equipment such as Bobcats, backhoe loaders and telehandlers will get the job done. If you will use this equipment, determine how they will assess your backyard. For instance, you could opt to use plant equipment with a long-reach arm. Alternatively, you could pull down a section of your fence to ensure property access. In some cases, you could opt to strip the building using hammers, jackhammers and mallets. 

Conducting Demolition Works

Below are some best practices to observe when demolishing the building: 

• Ensure that everyone at the site has appropriate safety clothing.
• Mark out the area you intend to strip. It prevents you from pulling down walls that were not part of the initial demolition plan.
• Start from one side and do not be in a hurry. The demolition work must be sequential. 
• Do not attempt to operate plant equipment if you do not have the experience and training required to handle the machine.
• Mind the environment and your neighbours. Barricade the demolition site and dampen bricks to prevent dust. If possible, go for quiet plant equipment. 

Site Management After Demolition

After the demolition works, sort out the waste to establish what can be re-used. For example, concrete and bricks could be used as a base for your pavements or driveway. Roofing shingles could be used as replacement shingles when repairing the roof. Conversely, you could sell metal bars to scrap metal dealers. Transport all other demolition waste to an appropriate landfill. Finally, inspect the building to ensure the demolition works did not weaken structural features. 

When conducting backyard demolition works, determine the extent of the demolition works, establish a proper demolition method and consider the recommended demolition and site clearance tips. To learn more about things like backyard demolition or subdivision demolition, contact a contractor.

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