Getting the demolition for your project done first seems like an obvious thing, and to be honest it is. However, it’s worth writing about as there are few things worse than the horrors of a job that is stop-start due to unfinished demolition.
Incomplete demolition creates frequent interruption to the building process that ultimately prolongs the time frame of the renovation and increases expenditure.
DO REAL RESEARCH
As the client, providing pre-construction information for your builder is key to the success of this stage. Locating reports and surveys is necessary for determining essential details like the presence of asbestos, structural stability of the site & nearby structures, the location of above & below ground live services in the work area etc. These must be done before commencing demolition and not left for the builder to discover after having already begun the process.
SCOUTS HONOUR // “BE PREPARED”
Ensuring that the necessary time is taken to be effectively prepared for your demolition is vital. Poor preparation will always result in a poor process, especially in a renovation or addition. So some keys in preparation are:
- Make sure that all safety hazards are taken into account.
- Check that all leads and electrical infrastructure is safely removed.
- Determine if all surrounding structures are properly braced and protected.
A lack of preparation leaves an open door for greater error and unforeseen circumstances to arise. It’s worth adopting the Scouts motto “be prepared”
BREAK IT DOWN SO YOU DON’T BREAK DOWN
Breaking down the project to allow for demolition, foundations, construction, finishing and fit out will dramatically improve the effectiveness of that project for a renovation or addition. Seeing your renovation as one big project will be overwhelming and cause greater potential for key stages in the process to be overlooked. A clear breakdown of exactly what the demolition will require, how long and how much it will cost may take more time to gather but will save you time and money in the long run. Always allow for a contingency as unforeseen circumstances will arise but a clear breakdown will help manage expectations and timing of the project.
Always make sure that the demolition stage for your renovation or addition is thoroughly thought through; it will save you time, money and many a headache. Don’t be impatient or over zealous. The best projects are the ones that are well measured and prepared for. You will find your building project is smooth and successful if you commit to getting the demo done first.
Trentwood provides full demolition services that ensure the building process is not stop-start, but smooth and consistent, all the way from start to finish.