20 Basic Demolition Tips for your DIY Artist

Doing demolition work yourself is a great way to not only relieve stress but to save you a heck of a lot of money. Before you tear out a wall, swing a hammer, or start breaking things, here’s some basic tips to keep in mind.

 #1 – Cover up any air ducts to prevent construction dust from being sucked in. Dust like this can easily plug your furnace filter.

 #2 – Bolt cutters are the ideal tool to snip through pieces of wire mesh.

 #3 – Rent a floor scraper (walk-behind type). For less than $75 per day, save yourself time as well as a sore back and/or wrists. These can help bust up ceramic tile, remove vinyl sheet, tile floors, and more.

 #4 – Cut wall studs quickly and remember, once you get close to the plywood, don’t apply as much pressure.

 #5 – Circular saws work well on cutting up tin, doors made out of steel, roofing, cement, rebar, and fiber cement.

 #6 – Don’t forget to pull out the drywall screws. When yanking out the drywall, sometimes the screws remain embedded in the studs. To get them out, opt for a pry bar or hammer claw, just like how you would pull out a nail.

 #7 – After taking out the studs, opt for a reciprocating saw to cut the nails off the plates. Even if you’re planning on re-using these plates, you’ll never accidentally step on a nail on the job-site if you follow through on this.

 #8 – When you’re breaking up concrete, use a plastic sheet of some sort to stop flying pieces of shrapnel. They can be difficult to clean up, and can cause damage such as broken windows.

 #9 – Look for a garbage removal company that rents out various sized waste containers. Get a trash container with a gate so that you can dump debris inside using a wheelbarrow.

 #10 – Cut out the finish nails of a door jamb with a reciprocating saw and remove it from the opening.

 #11 – Cut out any damaged drywall with a multi-tool that has a half-moon blade.

 #12 – When demolishing flooring that’s comprised of vinyl, measure about 10 inches from the wall and cut the floor using a utility knife.

 #13 – Have a sledgehammer to break up concrete slabs and for other demolition work.

 #14 – Removing carpet is a fairly simple DIY project

 #15 – Opt for renting a jackhammer with a large compressor to take care of any huge pieces of cement.

 #16 – Use a sledgehammer to knock studs out sideways. Don’t wack at the middle of them. Aim to hit very close to the bottom plate.

 #17 – Tearing off your roof’s shingles - If you wish, get a quote from your roofing contractor first to see if it’s even worth taking on such a job yourself. Many homeowners prefer leaving roofing work to the professionals, as it’s the safest option.

 #18 – A nipper is the most effective way to yank out nails as it pertains to windows, doors, and flooring.

 #19 – A fan that blows towards the door or window can help reduce dust. Blowing dust outside with a fan is the healthiest way to upkeep your demolition work zone.

 #20 – Cut fiberglass surround into pieces for easy removal.

 These basic demolition tips can help you get started on any home renovation project. Before jumping onto any big projects that require more expertise, do as much reading as you can. Though mistakes are sometimes made, some are more expensive than others so remember to do your research.