Demolition Safety 101

While demolition projects can be fun, they can quickly turn dangerous if safety is not a top priority!

Northeast Pennsylvania Porch Demolition

Before swinging the first hammer, get yourself into the mindset that demolition is a project in itself, not just a means of getting to the “real” project, whether it be a bathroom remodel, kitchen upgrade, or new construction.

Once demolition is safely completed, you can proceed to the remaining stages of your project.

Set aside time just for demolition.

Many people are eager to get their renovation project started and underestimate the time and attention to detail demolition work requires.

Depending on the extent of your project, you may want to schedule a whole day for demolition or an entire week. Devote this period of time, however long, to only demolition.
Don’t put too much pressure on yourself regarding the steps that follow demo; just focus on one thing at a time and be as safe and efficient as possible.

Safe and efficient demolition oftentimes calls for a professional, so call the highest-rated demolition company in the Scranton/Wilkes-Barre area! A+ Enterprises Demolition Services

Protect your property.

Regardless of the type of demolition project, you will want to protect your property in some way or another.

Dust is sneaky and finds its way into every nook and cranny, so simply closing a door and calling it good won’t cut it. You’ll want to seal the area as best you can.
If your project involves interior demolition, you’ll want to hang plastic sheeting and tape around the edges to keep the dust within the work zone.

Turn off all power.

Stay safe, and turn off any and all power within the immediate work area.

Run an extension cord from a safe location with power. This may be a generator or a side of the property outside the demolition zone. You can use this power source to run utility light(s) and any necessary demolition tools.

Confirm what’s behind the wall (or ceiling).

It likely goes without saying, but blindly tearing down walls or drilling into a ceiling isn’t a good idea.

There are a number of things to be cautious of when performing demolition, including:

  • Live electrical wires
  • Water pipes
  • Gas lines
  • Asbestos

A stud finder can help you precisely locate studs where cables may be run. Cut exploratory holes and use a flashlight to safely see what’s behind a wall.

Pick up after yourself as you go.

Demolition NEPA
Cleaning up after a demolition project is very important!

Generally speaking, it’s a good rule of thumb to make sure you pick up after yourself as the demolition progresses. It keeps your workspace clean, which in turn ensures it is safe and easy-to-navigate.

On the flip side, some people prefer simply charging ahead with the demolition work and then picking up all the debris at the end. That’s fine, too.

If your demolition project is of a decent size, renting a dumpster is easily the most cost-effective and convenient method for removing debris. Whether you clean up as you go or once all the demolition is done, a dumpster has you covered.

Hauling services are another option for demolition clean-up, but they are less cost-effective than renting a dumpster when it comes to large cleanups. However, junk removal services can be great for demolition projects that are too small for a roll-off.

It really depends on your preference, but whichever debris disposal method you choose, make sure you make safety a top priority.

Make sure you’re prepared.

When it comes to construction, you wouldn’t start a project without getting the right tools and supplies first. The same goes for demolition.

If you’re tackling the job yourself, make sure you have the right tools for the job, like:

  • Sledgehammer
  • Large crowbar
  • Prybar
  • Clawhammer
  • Gloves
  • Protective eyewear
  • Respirator or dust mask
  • Heavy duty boots

Call us today! 570-373-9996

     




    • I was looking for someone to haul away some things from a home remodeling project. I called A Plus and within 10 minutes I received an email and was able to call the owner right away. He sent his crew out the next day and took care of my hauling needs with a great price. I cannot tell you how pleased I am at the prompt, courteous service I received from both the owner and the crew. I highly recommend them. Mary Gadomski

      gadomski Avatar gadomski
      June 4, 2020

      EXTREMELY PLEASANT AND PROFESSIONAL! Gave them a call to remove some old furniture and assorted boxes of junk. They said the had a crew in my area the next morning and could be here at 9am. Arrived right at 9 on the dot and got straight to work. They battled through all my cobwebs and work quick and efficiently. No trouble or damage from moving some big items in narrow areas. The price they quoted was great value for all the work they did. I have already and will continue to HIGHLY recommend them.

      Michael Machion Avatar Michael Machion
      August 3, 2019

      Very nice to deal with. Showed up promptly. Worked throughout the entire day. Did a fabulous job! Would highly recommend.

      Sandra Hill Avatar Sandra Hill
      June 11, 2020
    • Sal and his team are amazing! They came and did a clean out the same day I called. They are honest, flexible, quick, and professional. They are worth every penny they charge. I wouldn't consider calling anyone else. Ryan K.

      R K Avatar R K
      March 8, 2019

      AMAZING!!! 30 years of junk in a HUGE truck garage. We could not have done this job without A+ Enterprises. Thanks to Sal, Joe and the entire staff. I've never met in this day and age such HARD WORKERS!!! Also extremely polite and professional. I HIGHLY recommend this company to everyone. My rating is A+++++++++++

      Bunny Degilio Avatar Bunny Degilio
      August 8, 2019

      I had called them to remove an old couch.. not only did the accommodate at a reasonable rate, they had it removed within hours!! Called 2-3 different places, tied prices w 2, however the customer service was phenomenal!! HIGHLY RECOMMEND!! Thank you so much again!!

      Jennifer Mieczkowski Avatar Jennifer Mieczkowski
      January 22, 2021
    • Sal was great to work with. I was so stressed about a large deck in the back of my house that was collapsing. Sal came right over and gave me a very fair price and two days later the job was done. And a really good job. He even hauled away a piece of junk for me at the last minute. I highly recommend this company and plan to use them again as the need arises

      Pam cortese Avatar Pam cortese
      April 10, 2019

      I hired Sal to remove a huge pile of dirt at the property. Sal and his team came on time and finished the job beautifully. They are reliable, honest, and excellent on their workmanship. I would highly recommend to anyone. Thank you Sal. AAA+++

      js js Avatar js js
      January 15, 2020

      Top notch. I called and spoke with a Guy named Sal. Very friendly and excellent Customer Service, 100%. I was set up in minutes. The pricing was great. Delivered it next day. When it was time for pick up I advised that I would be working and not able to hear the door so just knock hard. I went out on my Lunch break wondering what the heck? And the Dumpster was gone. Great service. Great Price. I called about 6 Dumpster Rental places and of all of them, A+ Was definitely the best and Props to Sal. Great Service. Truly is A+

      Baby Cakes Avatar Baby Cakes
      June 10, 2020
    • Called for estimate for tv removal, good price came that morning I called, Sal is great, will use again.

      Debbie Rumensky Avatar Debbie Rumensky
      March 15, 2020

      EXTREMELY PLEASANT AND PROFESSIONAL! Gave them a call to remove some old furniture and assorted boxes of junk. They said the had a crew in my area the next morning and could be here at 9am. Arrived right at 9 on the dot and got straight to work. They battled through all my cobwebs and work quick and efficiently. No trouble or damage from moving some big items in narrow areas. The price they quoted was great value for all the work they did. I have already and will continue to HIGHLY recommend them.

      Michael Machion Avatar Michael Machion
      August 3, 2019

      Sal and his team were fantastic to work with. They were professional and arrived on time. Our scope of work was larger than originally estimated and they immediately dispatched an extra truck to finish up our job in record time. I would highly recommend them for all your removal needs.

      Bryan McFarland Avatar Bryan McFarland
      December 5, 2019
    • Kyle and Joe were wonderful! Very efficient process. I called and gave brief information to a very professional person. They came out the next day. Wiped their feet, quoted me a very fair price, and removed my furniture. I’m very pleased with their service and friendliness. I will definitely recommend them to my family and friends! Meredith R.

      Meredith Rynkiewicz Avatar Meredith Rynkiewicz
      August 14, 2019

      I highly recommend A+ Enterprises. Sal the owner called and was great. Joe and Richard were prompt, efficient, honest, respectful, kind and took their time listening to what I wanted done. They really went above and beyond to make sure I was satisfied. I couldn't believe they came, did the estimate started the job and were out of my house in under two hours! And I had lots of stuff to get rid of...lol!!! I will DEFINITELY recommend to others and use again. Thanks for a job well done!

      Lou Ann Naughton Avatar Lou Ann Naughton
      November 18, 2020

      Sal really helped us out. We needed some junk removed right away and he got there within a couple of hours, was very professional and polite and did not charge an arm and a leg. He has a customer for life in us now!

      Margaret Esopi Avatar Margaret Esopi
      December 24, 2018