Leave Demolition To Professional Demolition Contractors
Demolition can be enticing for those who love DIY projects or want to save money on their renovation. However, it is important to understand the risks and dangers associated with attempting to complete your own demolition before embarking on such a project.
In this article, we will discuss the top reasons why you should avoid doing your own demolition and how working with a demolition professional can ensure your project is completed smoothly and safely.
Safety Concerns During Demolition
Demolition is a highly hazardous activity that requires proper training, equipment, and safety gear. Without adequate knowledge and experience, attempting to demolish a structure can put you and those around you at risk of serious injury or even death. Professional demolition companies have the necessary expertise to handle potentially dangerous situations and know how to remove hazardous materials such as asbestos safely.
The primary reason why hiring a professional demolition company is recommended is because of the inherent dangers involved. Demolition involves heavy machinery and hazardous materials, making it a high-risk activity for those who are not trained or experienced in handling them.
Some of the potential dangers that can arise during demolition include:
- Fire and Electrical hazards
- Loud noises and vibrations can cause hearing damage and make clear communication difficult.
- Hazardous materials such as asbestos, paints, flammable liquids, dust, etc.
- Exposure to asbestos or other harmful substances
- Injuries from flying debris or falling objects
- Falling from heights
- Electrical, water, gas, and telecommunications that have not been isolated or disconnected
Uncontrolled Building Collapse
Uncontrolled collapse is another major danger with DIY demolition. A professional team will conduct a thorough structural survey prior to demolition to prevent this type of disaster. Factors considered during this survey include:
- The condition and age of the building
- Potential structural weaknesses
- Nearby structures and buildings
- The weight of the machinery and material on the upper floors
- How the building was used previously
Without proper knowledge and training, it can be difficult to anticipate and mitigate these risks, putting yourself and others in harms way.
Costly Mistakes During Demolition
Another important factor to consider is the potential for costly mistakes. Demolition may seem like a simple task, but it requires precise planning and execution. One wrong move or miscalculation can result in damage to surrounding structures or even injury to yourself and others.
Repairing these mistakes can be time-consuming and expensive, ultimately setting your project back and potentially increasing the overall cost. In contrast, a professional demolition company has the expertise and experience to complete the job efficiently and effectively, minimizing the risk of costly errors. Professional demolition companies are also licensed and insured in the case of costly mistakes.
Mistakes can happen to anyone, the trick is to limit them, and be prepared for when they happen.
Equipment Expenses for Demolition Preparation
In addition to potential mistakes, attempting to demolish may require you to purchase or rent specialized equipment. This can include tools such as jackhammers, excavators, dump trucks, saws, angle grinders, air cleaners, and a range of other hand tools, which can be costly and may only be used once.
On the other hand, professional demolition companies come equipped with all the necessary tools and equipment for the job that they do on a regular basis. This saves you money and ensures that the task is completed safely and efficiently.
If any of the tools or equipment that you rented are damaged during demolition, that will also drive up the cost.
Benefits of Working With a Demolition Professional
While DIY demolition may seem like a cost-effective solution, the potential dangers, costly mistakes, and equipment expenses make it a risky and potentially nearly as expensive option. Hiring a professional demolition company offers several benefits, including:
- Expertise and experience in handling hazardous materials and specialized machinery
- Adherence to safety regulations and protocols
- Efficient execution of the project due to time tested methods
- Proper disposal of hazardous materials and debris through established channels
- Minimal risk of costly mistakes or delays
- Potentially lower overall cost compared to DIY demolition
A professional will be able to complete an accurate risk assessment to identify the risks and ensure the proper controls are in place to protect their workers and the surrounding people and properties from injury.
Commercial Demolition vs. Residential Demolition
It is also worth noting that commercial and residential demolition require different levels of expertise and safety protocols. Commercial demolitions often involve larger structures, more hazardous materials, and stricter regulations than residential demolitions. Residential demolitions are more common and may seem like an easier task, but they still carry risks that should not be underestimated.
A professional demolition company will have experience in both types of demolitions and the necessary knowledge to adhere to specific regulations. Attempting to complete a commercial demolition on your own can result in serious legal and financial consequences.
Steps in the Demolition Process with Schaaf Excavating Contractors
At Schaaf Excavating Contractors, we have extensive experience in providing safe and efficient demolition services. Our team follows a standardized process to ensure the job is completed to our client's satisfaction:
- Initial consultation and site visit to assess the scope of work and potential risks
- Development of a detailed plan and timeline for the project
- Obtaining necessary permits and permissions
- Proper isolation and disconnection of utilities
- Removal of any hazardous materials
- Controlled demolition using specialized equipment
- Proper disposal of debris and hazardous materials
- Site cleanup and restoration, if required.
This is a basic overview of our demolition process, but if you are interested in our demolition services, check out our website, call us with any questions, or fill out a form so we can get back to you with more information!
How to Choose the Right Demolition Company for Your Project
When selecting a demolition company, it is important to consider their experience, expertise, safety record, and insurance coverage. Schaaf Excavating Contractors is highly experienced in the industry and maintains an excellent safety record. We are fully insured and licensed to provide demolition services. Check out our demolition gallery and some before and after shots of our past work to see some of the buildings we have demolished around Pittsburgh!
Furthermore, our team consists of highly trained professionals who undergo regular safety training to ensure they are up-to-date on all regulations and protocols. We also have a dedicated safety manager who oversees all projects to maintain safety standards consistently.
Demolition Services for a Safe, Efficient Project
In conclusion, while DIY demolition may seem like a cost-effective option, the dangers and risks involved, potentially costly mistakes, and equipment expenses make it a risky and potentially expensive endeavor. Hiring a professional demolition company offers numerous benefits and is ultimately the safer and more efficient choice for your project.
At Schaaf Excavating Contractors, we have the expertise and experience to complete your demolition project safely and efficiently, ensuring a successful outcome. Contact us today for all your demolition needs.

Author: Tim Schaaf
Owner & Founder of Schaaf Excavating Contractors.





