Demolition feels like progress, and it is fast. But the hour you spend checking a room before it is stripped can save weeks of delay and a good deal of money once the walls are open.
Find out what is inside the walls
Before anything comes down, map the services that run through the room. Look for outlets, switches and light fittings on both sides of each wall, and check the floor above and below for plumbing that may pass through.
- Turn off and label the circuits that feed the room at the panel.
- Shut off water to any fixtures you are removing and cap the lines properly.
- Note any gas lines, vents or ducts so they can be rerouted rather than damaged.
Confirm which walls carry weight
Removing or opening a load-bearing wall changes how the house holds itself up. Joists that run across the top of a wall, walls stacked directly above one another, and walls near the centre of the house are all signs to stop and get a structural opinion before going further.
If you are not certain whether a wall is structural, treat it as if it is until a qualified person tells you otherwise.
Test for hazardous materials
Older homes can contain materials that are dangerous when disturbed, such as lead paint, asbestos in flooring, ceiling texture or pipe insulation, and mould behind damp surfaces. Testing first protects your family and the people doing the work, and it tells you whether specialist removal is needed.
Look for clues of hidden damage
Stains, soft spots in the floor, cracked tiles and doors that stick can all point to water or movement problems. Make a note of them before demolition so you know where to look closely once the surfaces are off.
Plan what you will keep
Decide in advance what is worth saving. Solid doors, trim, hardware and even cabinets can be removed carefully and reused or donated. Mark these items clearly so they are not thrown into the skip by mistake.
Protect the rest of the house
Dust travels further than you expect. Seal doorways with plastic sheeting, cover return vents, protect floors along the route to the door, and keep a clear path for debris to leave the house.
A careful start makes everything that follows easier. If you would like a second set of eyes before you begin, our team is happy to walk the room with you.
