Introduction to Demolition
When we think of demolition we usually think of the process known as implosion. This is a controlled series of carefully controlled explosions that cause a building to collapse on itself and fall into its own "footprint." Most demolition, however, is done with more mechanical methods. Smaller building such as homes are pulled down by cranes. Large buildings are broken apart by large wrecking balls swung on cables by a crane. So, what is demolition? It is really any project that removes an existing structure.
One of the first steps in any demolition project is the removal of everything that is of value and can be salvaged. In a major building, this would include copper wire, insulating material, and, of course, any furnishings. Along with this preliminary work is the removal of anything that might create a safety problem. Glass would be removed to keep it from being turned into dangerous projectiles during the demolition. Asbestos is another example of a potential safety hazard.
The implosion method of demolition is always thought of as the method of last resort. Although skilled demolition firms can safely implode a structure, it is considered a safety risk and is avoided if conventional demolition is practical. When implosion is used, the building is stripped first and then the smallest amount of explosives possible to accomplish the collapse are placed at carefully determined locations. The idea of the explosions are to weaken key structural elements causing a collapse.
In most demolition jobs, the clean up following the actual downing of the structure is the most time consuming part of the job. The vast amount of debris must be loaded and removed from the site. It also must be disposed of in some manner. The need for demolition projects is unending as all structures have a limited lifespan. Currently, many of the major housing projects built in the 1960's and 1970's are being demolished one by one to make room for new structures.
Sometimes the word demolition has a more uncontrolled connotation. It is like the demolition derby which is a wild and uncontrolled smashing of automobiles to see which is the last one running. True demolition is a carefully controlled process. Today, even more environmental concern than ever is being directed at demolition operations. As always, safety is the most important concern, but this idea of safety has been extended to the environment as well as the actual demolition process.
Aazdak Alisimo writes about building demolition for BuildingDemolitionContractors.com.
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