byAlma Abell

Demolition is one of the most challenging tasks in the entire construction industry. While a great deal of attention has focused on the erection of a building, we need to appreciate the simple fact that demolishing such a structure is as exact as it is a science. Unfortunately, such a statement is often overlooked. Nonetheless, demolition in London and other metropolitan areas needs to be carried out with a second-to-none precision and a meticulous attention to detail. When hazardous materials such as asbestos may also be present, it becomes quite clear that only the most professional services need to be employed. So, what are some of the basic tenets of the demolition process?

Assessment

Before the first brick or girder can be removed, teams of highly trained specialists first need to assess the risks and dangers involved. Much of this will be determined by on-site surveys that are designed to highlight risk points, hazardous materials such as asbestos and any other variables that may present a viable danger in the future. When referring to the removal of such substances, a management survey or a demolition survey will be carried out. After this is completed, the necessary permits will be attained. Then, the physical process of demolition in London can begin.

Types of Demolition

The process of demolition in an urban area is notably different than the steps that need to be carried out in other locations. This is primarily due to the simple fact that nearby buildings and people need to be protected at all times. Thus, traditional wrecking balls and explosives are frequently forbidden. Instead, hydraulic cranes and other precise methods are used. More often than not, the building will be reduced to a manageable height from a top-down demolition approach. As the height is reduced, so is the chance that extraneous damage or injury will occur. There is also the possibility that the walls at the base of a structure will be undermined. Then, the building can be “pulled” in a specific direction; minimising the chances of any material damaging nearby structures. When referring to demolition in London, such steps are ONLY carried out by highly trained personnel. So, it should now be quite clear that such a task is highly involved. The process can take any number of weeks and for larger structures, it is not uncommon that months will be required before final completion.