Are you wondering ‘How does demolition work’? If so, this article will tell you much more about the process than you might already be aware of. All buildings are designed with lifespans in mind. This means architects and their associates know how long a structure is likely to last as soon as the construction process is complete.
Once this date is reached, buildings can become dangerous to use. Therefore, they could pose risks to the structures around them. However, some buildings can last for longer than expected, whilst others may be demolished prematurely to make way for new structures, or because unforeseen problems have been identified within them.
What exactly is demolition?
The demolition process tends to involve the entirety of a building being demolished, though sometimes only a part of it needs to be removed. This often happens once its lifespan has come to an end, but it can also occur before this if the structure is no longer serviceable.
What happens before demolition occurs?
Before demolition in Nottingham occurs, various other processes need to take place. The first of these is normally surveying. Surveying can include processes like assessing the kind of materials which were used to construct the building. Also, finding out if any hazardous materials were used to build it.
A surveyor may look at things like the condition of the drainage and any issues with water pollution, flooding and erosion. The surveyor may also consider how impactful noise, dust, vibration and traffic movements are likely to be on the wider community when demolition occurs. If hazardous materials are found on the site, these will need to be removed via special methods before demolition.
What is included in a demolition plan?
When a plan for demolition in Nottingham is drawn up, various factors will need to be considered. These can include the distance of the building from adjacent buildings, roads and schools. A health and safety plan will need to be created to protect those living or working near the building. This may recommend the usage of covered walkways, hoardings and scaffolding protection screens.
A waste management plan may also be drawn up. Each member of the demolition workforce will need to use full PPE. All demolition workers will need to undergo occupational health checks. Steps will be taken to reduce and monitor dust, noise and vibrations. Fire and emergency plans will be included in health and safety plans.
Which kinds of demolition methods are used for buildings and structures?
Two main kinds of demolition are used to demolish buildings and structures in the UK. These are non-explosive/controlled demolition and explosive demolition. With non-explosive demolition, hand tools and machinery are used. Electric excavators can be operated from a distance. High-reach and standard excavators can also be used. Soft stripping is a form of non-explosive demolition, as are deconstruction, top-down demolition and dismantling.
Some forms of non-explosive demolition can take place before explosive demolition occurs. For instance, soft stripping is commonly used before explosive demolition occurs. So floor coverings, suspended ceilings, partitions, doors, air conditioning, heating and lifts can be removed. Standard and high-reach excavators are often used to demolish buildings.
A semi or high-reach machine can be used to demolish a building that has more than three storeys. Once the higher storeys have been removed, it’s common for standard excavators to be used. Dismantling is a process that can be used to remove old machinery and equipment before the main part of the demolition process occurs. Read on to find out more about ‘how does demolition work?’.
About explosive demolition
When a building is demolished via the use of explosives, this is often called implosion. This process is generally used for larger structures such as power stations and large factories. Explosives are used to destroy the foundations of a building to ensure the entire structure collapses. If there is a great deal of space available around the building that’s being demolished, explosives may be used to ensure the structure falls like a tree.
However, if there is only a limited amount of space available, the explosion will be designed in a way which ensures it falls into its footprint. In any case, the type of demolition process used to destroy a building will depend on factors. Such as its size, its location and your budget.
Who can help with demolition in Nottingham?
If you need assistance with demolition in Nottingham, assistance is available. At ProDEM, we have been leading players in the field of demolition for more than three decades. We have vast experience when it comes to demolition, hazardous waste removal and disposal. Furthermore, we have helped our clients to demolish everything from domestic garages to industrial complex buildings and everything else in between over the years. We can provide everything that you’re likely to need from a demolition contractor in the local area, and you can also rest assured that all the work we carry out comes fully guaranteed.
What kinds of demolition work can ProDEM carry out?
We are able to offer a wide range of demolition services, including refurbishment projects, high-reach demolition, soft strip and building derating services and even asbestos removal. Our demolition services are available for projects across Nottingham as well as the wider Midlands region. We can help you whether you want to clear a small plot of land or need assistance on a much larger scale.
Contact us today
Now you know the answer to the question ‘How does demolition work’, why not get in touch with us today for more advice on demolition in Nottingham? We’re also available if you’re ready to arrange a site survey. Reach us today by giving us a call on 0115 775 0307, sending a message to info@prodemolition.co.uk or completing the form on our site.