DECONSTRUCTION & DEMOLITION SERVICES

We work with you on customized solutions to ensure that as much of the demolition materials as possible are recycled. The decision on whether to demolish or deconstruct a building is a complex one that should weigh a variety of considerations, including:

• Municipal regulations
• The historic and aesthetic value of the building
• The value of the building materials
• The location of the building
• The presence of hazardous materials such as asbestos and disposal costs
• The cost of deconstruction vs. demolition

At J&R Excavation & Demolition, we have overseen the deconstruction and demolition of hundreds of buildings. We have the knowledge and expertise to help you make this important decision. We can help you weigh the cost of demolition vs. deconstruction and advise you on your best course of action.

What is Deconstruction?

Unlike demolition, deconstruction involves the unbuilding of a structure by taking the building apart piece by piece by hand. There are two types of building deconstruction: whole-building deconstruction and selective deconstruction.

Whole-Building Deconstruction

Whole-building deconstruction involves taking apart an entire structure by hand while salvaging components to repurpose or recycle. During a typical whole-building deconstruction, there is a minimum of 90% recycling compliance of the materials.

Selective Deconstruction

Soft strip, or selective demolition, involves going into the property before its demolition by machine and removing any recyclable or salvageable materials.

During a typical deconstruction project, items that can be salvaged, repurposed, or recycled include:

• Wall Studs, Siding, & Assorted Lumber
• Wood Flooring
• Hardware, Nails & Fixtures
• Concrete
• Beams & Joists
• Piping & Plumbing Fixtures
• Wiring, Electrical Components & Light Fixtures
• Doors & Windows
• Appliances
• Cabinets
• Countertops

The importance of deconstruction, aside from municipal regulations, is reducing the impact on the environment and diverting useful or harmful materials from landfills. Salvaging as much as possible is essential to achieving recycling compliance requirements.

Donating Salvaged Materials

Materials salvaged during the deconstruction process can be donated to non-profit organizations for resale or use in community-based projects. These donations may be eligible for tax deductions by either the homeowner or the contractor.

Salvaged items that cannot be donated for a tax write-off can sometimes be incorporated into other construction projects.

To Demolish or Deconstruct

While demolishing an existing building is the quickest, and easiest solution, the building materials from demolitions end up in landfills. Deconstruction is undoubtedly the better choice when it comes to environmental protection, but the following should be considered:

Time

• Deconstruction is a more intricate process than a standard demolition job which can increase the time it takes to complete your project by anywhere from a few days to several weeks.

Labour

• Much of the meticulous process of deconstructing a building is done by hand, which requires more labour than demolitions which utilize machines

Cost

• Due to the additional labour required, costs are higher for deconstruction than demolition

Safety

• Because materials are dealt with by hand during deconstruction, deconstruction management is more complex than with demolition.

Deconstruction or Demolition: The Right Choice for Your Project

When it comes to deconstruction and demolition, we have the knowledge and expertise to help assess your project and determine the best course of action for your unique circumstances.

Get In Touch!

Please complete the form below or give us a call, and one of our friendly and knowledgeable associates will help you make the right choice for you and your project.