The Two Types of Demolition Explained
When we think of demolition jobs, we can often think of unbridled destruction, of piles of concrete rubble and twisted steel and the boom and dust of a collapsing building. However, modern demolition is (for the most part) not about explosives and a spectacular implosion, but a process that requires expert planning and controlled dismantling and deconstruction, not destruction.
After all, bringing down tonnes upon tonnes of concrete and steel safely requires a detailed and methodical process, one that follows strict regulations and safety measures regarding site preparation, equipment use, and debris removal to reduce the hazardous elements of the job as much as possible.
Demolition projects are a key phase in both construction and renovation projects, and the techniques used in excavation and material clearance must preserve and prepare the site for future construction, forgoing highly destructive methods.
To do this, we use two primary demolition methods: mechanical and manual. Each comes with its own advantages and the projects that it is most suited for. The importance of selecting the appropriate type of demolition for the job is vital to the preparation and maintenance of the site, as well as the preservation of any existing infrastructure or architecture if required.
Understanding Demolition Types
The demolition method most appropriate for your next job depends on several factors, including the structure size, the precision required, and the timeframe available. Let’s look at what both methods involve.
Mechanical Demolition
Mechanical demolition uses heavy machinery, like bulldozers and excavators, to systematically dismantle structures and remove construction materials and other debris from the site. This method is best for jobs that need to be done quickly, with optimal efficiency, and that require the complete removal of a structure with no need to salvage existing materials or infrastructure. This demolition process is an efficient solution for demolishing larger structures, as the added protection of working from a machine provides both distance and a degree of protection from falling debris.
Our process:
- Secure necessary site approvals for demolition.
- Disconnect water, power, and gas.
- Remove hazardous materials, such as asbestos and environmental contaminants.
- Begin at one end of the structure, removing sheeting and wall materials before dismantling support beams and pillars.
- Remove the initial pile of debris using the same machines, keeping the site clear of obstacles.
- Move on to the next section, removing subsequent supports and clearing piles of debris as they fall.
- Clear site of aboveground debris.
- If necessary, break up and remove the concrete slab to fully clear the site.
Benefits
- Speed and efficiency: Heavy machines like excavators and bulldozers make short work of even large structures.
- Increased safety: Workers are protected from debris by distance and the machine’s cab during demolition.
- Smaller workforce: Fewer personnel are required on-site as most of the job is completed through machine operation.
Ideal Projects for Mechanical Demolition
Mechanical demolition is perfect for larger structures, such as warehouses in industrial areas, blocks of units or flats, shopping centres, sports infrastructure like stands and stadiums, and any other project that requires the complete removal of a structure quickly and efficiently. This demolition technique is also suitable for breaking apart and removing concrete slabs and foundations or breaking up roads or highways.
Manual Demolition
Manual demolition is the process of using hand tools like sledgehammers and jackhammers to break down structures and remove the pieces by hand. This is obviously more laborious and time-consuming than the mechanical option, but it allows a much greater degree of precision, is less noisy, and has better environmental outcomes, as contaminants can be contained and dust clouds are not so widespread over the site.
Our process:
- Secure necessary site approvals for demolition.
- Disconnect water, power, and gas.
- Set up dust covers or protective sheeting, if necessary.
- Remove hazardous materials, such as asbestos and environmental contaminants.
- Work localised, breaking down non-loading bearing walls and carting away debris with a wheelbarrow.
- If necessary, we set up temporary structural supports if existing pillars or beams are impacted.
- Clean the area with brooms, vacuums and pressurised air to rid the worksite of concrete dust.
Benefits
- Greater precision: For jobs where part of the structure must be preserved, using hand tools allows greater control and precision.
- Contaminant control: Appropriate for buildings that are contaminated with asbestos or other hazardous materials as well as a reduced dust cloud from demolition work.
- Less noise: Hammers and power tools are still noisy, but less so and produce smaller vibrations than large demolition machinery.
Ideal Projects for Manual Demolition
Manual demolition is perfect for smaller jobs that require greater control, such as residential renovations, removing interior walls to open space inside buildings, the removal of small structures, and for jobs in smaller locations where the bulk of an excavator or bulldozer is impractical or impossible.
Choosing the Right Demolition Type for Your Project
Choosing the right type of demolition for your next demolition project depends on a number of factors related to the site location, risk assessment, site access, and any limits to the damage incurred by the structure, such as partial rather than full demolitions. You will also need to consider project goals, your budget, any environmental concerns involved, and the building’s overall structure and strength.
However, there is no need to choose just one demolition method if your project could benefit from a mixed approach. It may save you time, and money and improve your safety protocols and environmental footprint to combine both demolition types at different stages of the project. For instance, an old building that has asbestos should be marked for safe manual demolition, but once this stage is complete, heavy machinery can be brought in.
The same thing can be applied to the partial demolition of a larger structure. A manual demolition can safely and accurately separate the part of the building marked for demolition from the rest of the structure, ensuring that it isn’t shaken by vibration once the excavators roll in to dismantle and remove the designated area.
Contact the Demolition Professionals to Get the Job Done Right
If you’re unsure which method is best for your next construction job, talk to a demolition expert like the friendly team at P & D Envirotech, who can quickly put you on the right path to demolition success. With over 20 years in the industry, you can count on us to provide safe and efficient demolition services, utilising every method at our disposal to get the job done exactly how you need it.
For more information on the two types of demolition and how they can help with the success of your next demolition job, call P & D Envirotech today.
