So it’s finally time for your old masonry structure to go. It’s old, it’s crumbling, it’s ugly – and it’s past the time for restoration. You’ve called Del Prete Masonry for help and now you’re wondering just how we will go about demolishing your structure or building. Well, there are four different ways we might go about it. Demolition methods will vary depending on several factors: the area the demolition will occur, the building material, the demolition’s purpose, and the method that debris must be disposed. Find out what method we will use to demolish your masonry structure in this week’s blog.
Demolition methods will vary depending on several factors: the area the demolition will occur, the building material, the demolition’s purpose, and the method that debris must be disposed.
Masonry Demolition Methods
- Implosion
Perhaps the most “fun” demolition method, implosion involves the use of explosives to eliminate the critical vertical structure supports. A blaster crew will need to first assess the structure to identify what areas need to be blasted, what type of explosives to use, and how to time the detonations.
- High reach arm
Another traditional method of demolition is using a high reach arm, which can reach heights of over 20 meters. This method is made up of a base machine like an excavator or tank, a demolition arm, and a primary tool attached to the base machine like crushers or hammers.
- Ball and crane
This is the most commonly used and oldest method of demolition. It uses a wrecking ball to demolish concrete and masonry structures. The ball is dropped or swung into the structure. However, it creates a great deal of noise, vibrations, and dust and won’t be suitable for all demolitions.
- Selective demolition
This method, also known as the strip-out method, selectively demolishes or recycles wood, brick, metals, and concrete for future use in new structures. By only partially demolishing the structure, you can save money by only re-building what needs to be re-built, not the entire structure. It can be labor intensive and take time, but it’s a generally safe and cost-effective procedure.
Del Prete Masonry
For any questions regarding new masonry construction, feel free to contact Del Prete Masonry. Our masonry restoration professionals have the experience and history of satisfied clients to prove that we’ll get the job done right, and cost-effectively. To get started with your masonry restoration project, please contact our office today at 410-683-0650 or email us at mike@delpretemasonry.com. We serve Baltimore City, County, Harford County, Carroll County, Anne Arundel County, and Howard County. Keep up with our blog for masonry related information, and follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Google+.
Tags: ball and crane, demolition, demolition methods, high reach arm, implosion