First things first. The demolition comes before the renovation and “make good” stages.
It needs some consideration and planning in a commercial fitout.
Usually, ceilings, walls, shopfronts, stairs or entrances have to be demolished, dumped or recycled before any new work starts.
Here are a few useful things to know:
Exclusion Zones:
Your builder will probably need to create exclusion zones to protect workers undertaking the demolition and prevent
unauthorised people from entering work areas.
Hoardings, safety fences, barricades, signage and supervision will be put in place.
Security arrangements will be made to secure either the relevant part of or the entire site.
Demolition Drop Zone:
A suitable drop zone will be allocated for the disposal of demolition rubble and debris.
A rubbish skip most likely will be used for ease and regularity of removal.
It will be clear of obstruction and isolated from workers and other persons at the workplace.
Asbestos Removal:
A licensed asbestos removal contractor is authorised to remove asbestos materials and dispose of it safely.
A site inspection will confirm whether or not any material is present.
Not all older sites will contain asbestos, but many do.
Insulation, roofing, piping, sheeting are just a few areas where dangerous asbestos needs to be removed.
Your builder will ensure that all removal compliances are met.
Systematic Removal Program:
Things like electrical services, air-con, partitions, internal walls, ceilings, flooring, cabinetry are removed in a logical process.
Glass usually will be removed from the windows, doors or openings at the commencement of the demolition work.
Walls and floors will then be demolished.
Openings in floors will be boarded over with platforms for safety purposes.
Essential Services:
Before demolition starts, utilities and services like gas, electricity, water supply and drainage need to be
terminated or disabled for a period of time.
That may involve old switchboards, machinery, light, cables, gas lines and drainage pipes.
Arrival of Equipment on Site:
You will notice a range of plant and equipment will arrive on site.
It could typically be things like air compressors, electric generators, jackhammers, hydraulic jacks,
sledgehammers, concrete saws and corers, angle grinders, demolition saws to name a few.
All will be organised and operated by a competent person with appropriate safety precautions taken.
The demolition process can be unpleasant for a short time, but once the debris is taken away and the site is ready
for the new fitout work, things definitely will look up!
