Why Professional Demolition Is Key for a Successful Remodel

Remodeling is a usual go-to option if homeowners want an upgrade in Nashville. It focuses on improving existing structures to meet your personal preference. But what if we weigh other building factors such as structural integrity, local code compliance, modern appeal, and economic cost? Demolition, partially or entirely, allows homeowners to start afresh considering these factors. Demolition is generally dismantling, removing, or destroying any structure or part thereof. Although demolition may sound extreme, it may be a practical choice for homeowners who want to start from scratch to meet their needs. Working on a clean slate allows homeowners to make room for more new improvements for added value to their homes. Demolition is more than just destroying walls and slabs; one of its purposes is to maximize your remodeling efforts for your home's added value and functionality. Understanding how professional demolition can contribute to your remodeling goals' success is crucial to make informed decisions for your next steps.

1. Types Of Demolition Services

Whether you want to remodel a single room or your entire home, demolition may be inevitable to give way to new ideas and upgrades. Considering its purpose, there are three common types of demolition:

a. Interior Demolition

Interior demolition is a selective demolition that focuses only on specific segments of a building's interior. It leaves out the exterior part of the structure and keeps it intact. Most interior demolitions are the initial steps of a homeowner’s remodeling journey. A successful demolition prepares you for a successful renovation and remodel process. Interior demolition may include:

• Dismantling of cabinetry

• Removing non-load-bearing walls

• Taking out existing flooring

• Tearing out existing insulations and ceiling

• Removing installed appliances

b. Exterior Demolition

Exterior demolition is crucial since it involves carefully dismantling structures, which may be both structural and architectural. As a result, exterior demolition offers a blank canvas for new possibilities for your property. Since exterior demolition may be more exposed to public view, stricter compliance with local codes and safety protocols is necessary.

c. Residential Demolition

Residential demolition is the process of dismantling, destroying, or knocking down any residential building, whether interior or exterior. Residential buildings are demolished for various reasons, which may include their span of serviceability, structural integrity, or homeowner’s resale plans. A homeowner may opt for demolition for a major change in layout and function.

2. Safety First: How Professional Demolition Prevents Damage and Hazards

According to the U.S. Department of Labor Occupational Safety and Health Administration, demolition involves many of the construction-related hazards. Moreover, demolition involves additional risks due to unknown factors, which makes demolition work particularly dangerous. Its hazards can be controlled by proper planning and expert execution of trained professionals. Hiring an insured professional contractor for demolition will also give you peace of mind that the workplace will be kept safe while workers are given the necessary personal protective equipment (PPE) and any untoward accidents will be taken care of by the contractor.

The expertise of a professional demolition team is essential to mitigate the risks and hazards of demolition activities. Picking the right contractor is key to a successful demolition. Although demolition may appear destructive in nature, we do not want to further damage any existing structures we want to keep. A professional demolition personnel is equipped with proper training in the safest and most efficient techniques to successfully demolish a structure, whether interior or exterior while preserving the beauty of the existing structure.

3. Efficient Debris Removal and Site Clean Up

According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, 90% of the total construction and debris generation is from demolition. Clearing and disposing of debris and waste from demolition should be done safely, responsibly, and efficiently. Demolition debris is usually composed of concrete, bricks, metal, drywall, glass, and other building materials. Some materials contain hazardous content, such as lead and asbestos. These chemicals are health hazards and should be properly disposed of.

Fig. 1. Debris collected from interior demolition in Nashville, TN

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency recommends knocking down each structure wall-by-wall and folding it to minimize excess asbestos-containing material breakage. Asbestos is usually found in vinyl floorings, tiles, pipes, partition boards, acoustic ceiling boards, insulations, spray coatings, and other paint materials. After segregating hazardous materials, they must be transported and disposed of in landfills approved by the local government to receive hazardous waste. EPA also recommends seeking the assistance of public health authorities and trying to obtain help from specially trained contractors to dispose of and clean up demolition debris, especially hazardous waste.

4. Preparing For The Next Phase Of Your Remodel

Demolition creates a gun-start for a more efficient home improvement process. It is a great way to clear out space in your property. In clearing out spaces, you will expose many hidden areas that need repair before you continue with any remodel, such as leaks, faulty wirings, and structural issues. This will help you save money, time, and energy. It is best to discover what needs to be repaired and replaced before you start your remodel to prevent potential added costs and delays due to rework. Think of it as setting a good foundation for your remodel.

After the demolition and clean-up phase, it is time to review and revisit your plans carefully. Consider adjustments, if necessary, based on what you have observed during demolition. It is best to consult and engage with experts such as architects, designers, and contractors for the next steps of your remodel. Ensure that all necessary permits and materials are ready. Coordinate with the professionals to correctly estimate and schedule the remodeling project. Setting a clear timeline is key to achieving an efficient remodeling journey. Stay engaged and updated to make prompt decisions, keeping your remodel on track.

5. Examples Of Successful Demolition Projects In Nashville

Demolition projects in Nashville increase as the city progresses. Demolition represents not destruction but an opportunity for a fresh start and new beginnings. New demolition paves the way for new renovations and improvements. Successful demolition projects in Nashville are handled by a team of trained and skilled personnel with extensive knowledge of efficient demolition techniques and safe equipment operation, such as the Modern Handymen. Modern Handymen’s expertise and experience in demolition are represented by some of its projects in Nashville, TN.

Fig. 2. Interior demolition in Nashville, TN, by Modern Handymen (January 2024)

Fig. 3. Interior demolition in Nashville, TN, by Modern Handymen (March 2024)

With demolition, you can utilize your space to create a higher-quality and aesthetically appealing home or business. While demolition can be exciting to do yourself, it is safer to reinforce your expertise in demolition services with a professional. Modern Handymen has a highly skilled demolition team you can trust to complete your demolition project on time and within budget safely. Modern Handymen can help you achieve your envisioned improvements for your home and business, from demolition to remodeling. Need a clean slate for your remodel? Contact us at 615-200-8071 for professional demolition services in Nashville. Let us kick-start your dream remodel with a successful demolition service.