I am currently working on my eagle scout project. Which is the complete removal and destruction of a small one story building about the size of two garages. I already know what to do after the bulding is completly destroyed but was seeking guidance on the best way to actually destroying buling, (the bulding is to close to the church that I am doing this project for to have the fire department do a controlled burn for). The sidings are of wood and the interiro has already been cheacked for hazardes material. I am already aware of premits, and safty regulations surounding a project of this type. Any input would be of help.

BEN R.

In general the method of demolition is like a reverse high speed version of construction. Start by removing all the finish materials like siding, drywall. Then you'll need to take apart the structure starting at the top and working down so that nothing falls on you.

It sounds like you could use a friendly visit from a contractor in your area to get some on-site advice. Since you are doing it for a boy-scout project as community service, there should be contractors that are willing to come out and discuss a process with you.

Please be sure that the building owner is insured and please make sure that your health insurance is in order. Demolition is a hazardous job even when done by experts and you can get hurt so please BE PREPARED.

Making sure you are doing it right means making attempts to get some experienced advice from people in your area that can come and discuss issues at the location. Please approach it in this manner because even if we give you some great plan it might not pertain to the project you are doing and we might miss something that is critical.

i would avoid any kinda burning as its not good for the air and also global warming. (wow i just sounded like one of those tree huggers)
but its the best way.just like aminator says
be carefull of rusty nails ect.they can bite you when you least expect them too

I am currently located in Beaveton, Oregon andthe church is loacted in tualtion. Due to the depth that this project entails and the lack of time I currently have till I turn 18, I have decided to strip the house and prepare it for demoltion as a means to profile the eagle project, but will alos be returning to the project to finish it up, past eagle scout if need be. what is needed to have a project completly ready for demo? Haveing the structure brought down to it's basic wooden walls and roof. I know that I would have to remove all thew wires, turn off power, rip carpets up, remove heaters, what else is in a house that can not be simply thrown into the demo barrel?

thank you much for your helpfull respsonse

If you've had an asbestos inspection then you probably don't have anything in there that can't be put in the garbage. Something to think about though - if this is for Eagle Scouts then perhaps you should consider your recycling options. Many materials can be recycled and it might be worth talking to your local recycling center to see what you can recycle. Metals are especially valuable right now but you might also find someone that can take some of the wood products or drywall materials.

With the idea that you already know to turn off power (and to check power outlets within the space to make sure you got it right) you should look into personal safety equipment and the proper way to protect yourself, make scaffolding and to check ladder safety. If you go on the roof there are also safety precautions to take. Since this is a learning experience and a charitable work, I think it would be good for you to check the safety aspects very carefully.

Hope this helps you.