The Demolishing Process: Clearing the Way for Your Custom Home Build
Building a custom home is an exciting endeavor, but before we can break ground and begin erecting your dream home there’s one important step: demolition. Whether you’re tearing down an old structure to make way for something new or clearing vacant land for your custom home, the demolition process plays a pivotal role in preparing the site for construction.
In this post, we’ll take a closer look at the demolition process, focusing on what happens during the removal of an existing home and the earthwork that follows. We’ll explore what to expect, the steps involved, and how to navigate the complications that arise in this essential phase of the home-building journey.
1. Planning and Permitting: Laying the Groundwork
Before any demolition work begins, proper planning and permitting are essential. Demolition involves more than just knocking down a structure; it requires permits to ensure that all local regulations are followed, and environmental considerations are addressed.
- Permitting: Depending on the location, permits are required for both the demolition and the new construction. For demolition specifically, local authorities will need to inspect the property and approve the plans. This often includes the handling of any hazardous materials such as asbestos or lead paint.
- Utility Disconnection: All utilities (gas, water, electricity, sewer, etc.) must be properly disconnected. This is a crucial step to avoid safety hazards and prevent damage to underground lines during the demolition process. Utility connections are also inspected to ensure their size and status are in good working order for the new home to come.
- Environmental Considerations: Any hazardous materials must be handled and disposed of according to environmental regulations. In addition, arborists may be called in to assess existing trees for their structural integrity, canopy locations, and root systems as they apply to the excavation and foundation to be laid. There are also protected species to take into account for.
2. The Demolition Day
Once all the planning and legalities are in place, it’s time for the demolition crew to begin removing the existing structure. This is the most intense part of the process, as large machinery and skilled operators work to take down the home in an orderly and controlled manner.
- Site Preparation: The demolition team will first clear the surrounding area, creating a safe perimeter. They’ll use barriers, fences, and sometimes even temporary signage to ensure that no one is in harm’s way during the demolition.
- Heavy Machinery: Once the site is secure and the house is ready for demolition, heavy equipment like excavators, bulldozers, and disposal bins are brought in to tear down the structure. For smaller homes, machinery like skid-steers or backhoes might be used. The crew works in stages, starting with the roof and working down to the foundation, ensuring that debris is properly contained. This work must be done in a very coordinated manner as adjacent structures/neighbouring homes and tree protection zones must be secured.
- Waste Removal: As the home comes down the rubble is loaded into trucks for disposal in landfills, while salvageable materials are taken for recycling or resale.
3. Site Cleanup and Grading: Preparing for Construction
Once the old home/structure is completely removed, the real work begins on clearing the land for your custom home. Demolition isn’t just about tearing down walls—it’s about preparing the ground for a fresh start.
- Removing the Foundation: The foundation is often the last remaining part of the structure. Depending on the type of foundation (slab, crawlspace, or basement), this can involve excavation to remove concrete, steel, or stone.
- Earthwork and Grading: After the house and foundation have been removed, the site will be leveled and graded. This process involves moving soil, filling in any holes or depressions, and ensuring the ground is even. Proper grading is essential for drainage, so water doesn’t pool near the foundation of your new home. This may also involve compacting the soil to create a stable base for the new construction.
- Excavation for Utilities: Before new construction can begin, trenches may need to be dug for new utility lines (water, sewer, gas, electricity). Excavation also includes any digging required for features like basements, pools, or landscaping elements.
- Erosion Control: If your lot has sloping areas or is adjacent to bodies of water, erosion control measures are put in place to prevent the soil from washing away during the rainy season. This can include the installation of silt fences, erosion mats, and other protective barriers.
4. Final Inspection and Ready for Building
With the land cleared and properly graded, it’s time for a final inspection. Local authorities will need to ensure that the demolition is complete, and the site is ready for the next phase of construction. Once the inspection is complete, you’re officially ready to begin building your custom home.
5. Cost and Timeline Considerations
The cost and timeline for demolition can vary depending on several factors, including the size of the home, the type of materials used, and the complexity of the foundation. In general, demolition and site preparation can take anywhere from a few days to several weeks.
- Cost: Demolition costs can range from $5,000 to $20,000 or more, depending on the scope of work. Factors like the need for hazardous material removal, the size of the home, and the removal of concrete foundations can increase the cost.
- Timeline: The demolition phase typically takes between 1 and 3 weeks, although it could be longer if there are complications (such as environmental concerns or tough site conditions).
Conclusion
The demolition of an old home and clearing of the land may seem like a daunting and messy task, but it’s an essential part of the journey to building your custom home. With proper planning, the right equipment, and a skilled team, demolition can be completed efficiently, making way for the next phase of construction.
As you watch the old home come down, know that it’s not just a pile of rubble—it’s the beginning of something new, a blank slate for your vision to come to life.
