What Types of Materials Can Be Demolished?
<p></p> <img src="https://dcr-apis.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/wp_contents/uploads/DCR-ADMIN/Article_Webp/what%2520types.webp" alt="undefined" style="height: auto;width: auto"/> <p></p> <p>Whether you’re tearing down an old building or making way for renovations, it's crucial to know what materials you'll be dealing with during the demolition process. Some demolished materials can be easily removed, while others require special handling due to environmental regulations or potential health risks.</p> <h3><strong>Materials That Can Be Demolished</strong></h3> <p><strong>Concrete</strong><br>One of the most common materials in construction, concrete can be broken down, crushed and often recycled for use in new construction projects.</p> <p><strong>Wood</strong><br>Wood can often be recycled or reused if it's in good condition, or it might be chipped for mulch or biomass fuel.</p> <p><strong>Metals</strong><br>Steel, copper and aluminum are highly sought after for recycling. They can be separated from debris and sold to recyclers.</p> <p><strong>Bricks and masonry</strong><br>Bricks can be reused or crushed into aggregate. Proper handling and cleaning can often allow these materials to have a second life in new construction or landscaping.</p> <p><strong>Glass</strong><br>Glass can be recycled, but it often needs to be separated by type and cleared of any contaminants.</p> <h3><strong>Materials That Require Special Handling</strong></h3> <p><strong>Asbestos</strong><br>Common in older buildings, asbestos is hazardous when disturbed. Its fibers can become airborne and are harmful when inhaled, leading to severe health issues such as lung cancer and asbestosis. Specialized removal techniques are required and the process must be handled by licensed professionals.</p> <p><strong>Lead-based paint</strong><br>Like asbestos, lead is hazardous and can be found in older buildings. Lead-based paint can release harmful dust if it’s scraped, sanded or heated, so handling and disposal require adherence to strict regulations.</p> <p><strong>Chemicals and solvents</strong><br>Some buildings contain hazardous chemicals that must be identified and disposed of according to specific environmental standards.</p> <p><strong>Mercury</strong><br>Mercury is a toxic substance found in some older thermostats, switches and fluorescent light bulbs. Special care must be taken to prevent exposure when demolishing equipment that contains mercury.</p> <p><strong>Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs)</strong><br>Commonly found in electrical equipment like transformers and capacitors in older buildings, PCBs are carcinogenic and must be handled according to federal and state regulations. </p> <p><a href="https://www.diamondcertified.org/" target="_self">Use Diamond Certified Resource to find top rated companies</a></p> <p><strong>Local, Top Rated Diamond Certified Companies Related to Your Topic</strong><br><a href="https://www.diamondcertified.org/contra-costa-demolition/" target="_self">Contra Costa County Demolition Contractors</a><br><a href="https://www.diamondcertified.org/alameda-demolition/" target="_self">Alameda County Demolition Contractors</a><br><a href="https://www.diamondcertified.org/contra-costa-county-excavating/" target="_self">Contra Costa County Excavation Contractors</a></p> <p><strong>Related Articles</strong><br><a href="https://www.diamondcertified.org/Guide/excavating-and-demolition/" target="_self">The Homeowner's Guide to Excavating & Demolition</a><br><a href="https://www.diamondcertified.org/find-expert-advice/" target="_self">Get Expert Advice From Owners of Top Rated Local Companies</a><br><a href="https://www.diamondcertified.org/membership/" target="_self">Become a Diamond Certified Preferred Member (Always Free)</a> </p>
