Residential vs. Commercial Demolition: What You Need to Know

Demolition: A tale of two projects

Demolition isn't just about swinging a wrecking ball; it's an art and science that varies drastically between residential and commercial projects. Let's break down the key differences to help you understand what to expect.

1. Scale of destruction

Residential demolition usually involves single-family homes or smaller buildings and may even preserve parts of the structure. Commercial demolition? Picture large crews, towering cranes, and entire city blocks coming down.

2. Permits and regulations

Commercial demolition comes with a mountain of permits and strict safety protocols due to its larger scale and public impact. Residential projects are simpler but still require compliance.

3. Equipment needs

Commercial jobs require heavy-duty equipment like wrecking balls, cranes, and explosives. Residential demolitions often use smaller machinery like skid steers or manual tools.

4. Cost considerations

Don't let the size fool you. A residential project can be just as costly if asbestos removal or salvaging materials is involved. Commercial demolitions, however, almost always come with a higher price tag due to their complexity.

5. Environmental Impact

Both types must deal with debris, recycling, and hazardous materials. Commercial projects often have stricter guidelines, but residential jobs should never skip proper waste disposal.