Even with the rainy spring weather, commercial and residential demolition work continues. There are additional considerations when demolishing a building in wet weather as opposed to dry; however, it is not impossible to complete the job. You can still schedule your demolition now and start getting ready for summer construction season. Here is what your demolition contractor in Kansas City considers before carrying out your rainy-day demolition work:
- Reduced dust: There is one advantage to demolition during rainy season: reduced dust. This is especially relevant if you are demolishing an older building that may have asbestos or lead paint. Dust from those substances can affect the surrounding neighborhood, and there have been clean air lawsuits arising from that issue. Even if there is no lead, asbestos or other toxic substances, dust still annoys pedestrians, motorists and visitors to neighboring homes and businesses. We take steps to minimize dust, but rain is usually the most successful way to keep those dust clouds down.
- Exposed ground concerns: When we are demolishing structures during a rainstorm, we need to consider the exposed ground. This is most relevant with pool or driveway demolitions that offer opportunities for rainwater to accumulate. If you are not building a replacement structure right away, this can compromise the stability of your site and encourage flooding. You may have to rent a sump pump to clear the area of water before you build. If a rainstorm arises on the same day you schedule the demolition, plan to have protective measures in place once the job is complete.
- Compromised structures: Many buildings we demolish are already compromised. Wind and rain can make these situations more dangerous. Damaged structures may fall more easily—or when we do not wish them to—and place workers and surrounding structures at risk. When we assess the job, we may try to determine the impact the weather may have on the demolition. If in doubt, we may reschedule you for a dryer day just to keep everyone safe.
- Overall worker safety: There is some danger to workers in every demolition job, just as in construction. We would never consider this job risk-free, but we do look to minimize hazards. In addition to exposed ground and compromised structures, rain also increases the number of slippery surfaces. If any live wires remain, electric shock is also a greater possibility. We will not send workers to a site if the danger outweighs the benefits. So, if there is heavy rain, wind or even a tornado warning, expect a rescheduling call.
Generally, demolition work in rainy spring weather requires additional precautions and planning. However, there are moments when demolition simply must occur on a better day. Consider this thoroughly, since an exposed site or storm damage can also make future construction more difficult.
Midland Wrecking Inc. is a demolition contractor in Kansas City. Our services include commercial and residential demolition and debris cleanup. If you would like to clear a site in time to start spring and summer construction, call us today to schedule a consultation.