Dealing With The Demo In A Home Improvement Project

By Author: Jason Delmar
Total Articles: 335
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A big part of the typical home renovation project is the demolition. As in almost any situation—you must tear down the old before you can put up the new.

While the DIY (do it yourselfer) demo can save you a lot of money and/or ready a space for an incoming contractor, the savings is only worth it if the process goes smoothly. Homeowner's inevitably make mistakes with demolition that could cost the projects budget much money. This might make the whole process worth less in comparing time and money issues. So keep these points in mind when beginning any demo:

As with almost anything you do in life, safety first. Always wear safety glasses, including eye protections, ear protection (if your ears are sensitive), gloves, re-enforced steel tip boots, dust masks, and the more the better -especially when your are just beginning.

Certain walls in your house could be load bearing walls. These walls need to be in your house for structural support. These walls cannot simply be removed. Removal of these walls can lead to trouble down the line and may cause areas of the home to sink or shift. Consult with ...
... an expert (architect or engineer) prior to removing any walls to ensure that it is structurally safe to do so first.

Unseen or hidden dangers: There are numerous hazards behind walls. Electrical lines, water lines, gas lines, to name a few of the many hidden hazards. Faulty wire, insect infestation, or even leaking pipes are further examples of hidden surprises that can occur. Expect the worse and budget some extra money for any types of these issues. You may have to re-route a line or two and this can set you back a few hundred dollars and a say or two of work.

Don't simply pick up a sledge hammer and begin destruction. It sounds fun and is very tempting, but planning your punches is a much better path to destruction. Always know where outlets, plugs and wires are located and work around them.

Count on using the right tools: Any job is easier when the correct tools are used. Injuries often occur when the right tools are not used. Set aside a variety of good demo tools -- crowbars, hammers, sledge hammers, screwdrivers, and drills to name a few of the best tools for demo work.

Plan on recycling: Many people want to take the debris from their destruction and throw it in the trash. This type of debris takes up large amounts of space in a landfill. Some people think they do not need to recycle, it's not for everyone, but it is slowly becoming apparent that it is needed to help the environment. It might not affect you directly, but eventually it will. It's a choice that should be made; anything you recycle will have a positive impact on our environment. No matter how small it is. Take the debris to the proper recycling center and you will be better for it.

Finally when in doubt - call a professional. If you're unsure get advice. Even if it cost you a few extra dollars, in the end this could save you time and money.
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