Are residential and commercial buildings demolished in the same way?
Not exactly. Depending on the size, location, and structure of the building, demolition contractors may take a variety of approaches. Different projects will require unique guidelines, machinery, and safety measures.
Demolition projects vary based on the type of building that’s being demolished. Residential buildings are often made of wood frames, while commercial buildings are typically made of steel frames. These differences necessitate specific strategies and equipment to get the job done.
Demolition contractors must approach residential and commercial projects with the appropriate plan-of-action. Here are a few key differences between these services:
Residential Demolition
A residence is a living area that may house one or multiple units. This type of demolition is suitable for single-family homes, buildings with multiple units, and even many apartment complexes. The property owner is usually the person that oversees the project and works with the contractors.
In a residential area, there may be restrictions on what times of the day that demolition can be done. Contractors must be especially careful not to impact the surrounding properties, or they’ll be dealing with some very angry neighbors!
Contractors must be precise, careful, and communicative during a residential demolition project. They need to be mindful of pollution and toxic noise during demolition, which can damage the hearing of nearby residents.
Following the demolition, the property may require grading services to create a level surface. This is necessary if you’re planning to construct a new building on the lot after the demolition. Residential areas tend to have uneven terrain, while commercial lots may have already been leveled and will not require any grading.
Commercial Demolition
Commercial buildings are usually substantially larger than residential ones. This means that they could pose logistical challenges and may take longer to demolish. These projects require heavier and stronger machines for efficient demolition. You might need a permit and a risk assessment done before you can demolish a commercial building.
General contractors are often the ones who manage commercial demolition. They will consult with the demolition contractor when questions or concerns arise instead of the property owner. This is indicative of how complicated and involved these demolition projects can be; even overseeing the project requires expertise.
In a business like a warehouse, office space, or retail store, contractors may encounter hazardous materials like asbestos. During demolition, asbestos fibers may become airborne, which can be dangerous. Contractors require specific training and the proper equipment to safely handle these materials and remove them without putting anyone’s health at risk.
Demolition contractors encounter all sorts of commercial facilities, from schools to manufacturing facilities. Large and heavy equipment is required to demolish commercial buildings—in extreme cases, explosives may even be used!
There are more differences between these types of demolition than most people expect. They are mostly due to the locations, the sizes, and the materials used in the construction of the buildings.
If you’re looking for a demolition contractor in New Jersey, call Bella Contracting. We’ve been in business for 20 years, so we know how to handle residential and commercial demolition projects. No matter what job we take on, we deliver the same results every time: a project that’s finished on-time, on-budget, and to your satisfaction. We also offer commercial demolition in Bergen county.
