Pre-Demo Inspection

Oftentimes, people want to jump into demolition right away. However, beginning demolition without conducting a pre-demolition inspection can pose a number of risks. Instead, consider delaying the start of your demolition project and conducting a pre-demolition inspection. During the inspection, experts will be able to check for a few key factors that can impact your demo project. For instance, materials, asbestos, mould, structural issues, foundational issues, environmental problems, etc. All of these factors play a huge role in the cost and timeline of your project. So, it is important to have an inspection done prior to beginning demolition. 

It is important to note that a pre-demolition inspection is typically required. However, this can change from city to city. So, it is important to check with your local municipality for the regulations surrounding demolition. You can also ask your demolition company in Kelowna for more information!

Type of Demolition

The type of demolition that is being conducted can also have an impact on the environment. Usually, the type of demolition is determined by what’s being torn down and where. Some of the most common demolition methods include a bulldozer, an excavator, a wrecking ball, and a sledgehammer. Each mode of demolition can produce different sizes/amounts of debris. So, it is important to make sure that you choose the mode of demolition that is most suitable for the area. For instance, you wouldn’t use a wrecking ball to demolish a home in the suburbs. This would make a mess and ultimately be dangerous.

Demolition Company in Kelowna Advises About Asbestos

Asbestos is a dangerous substance that is often found in older homes and structures. It is made up of different minerals that naturally occur and resist heat. Asbestos-containing materials were put into a number of homes in North America prior to the dangers of asbestos being uncovered. Asbestos is known to cause cancer and numerous other life-threatening conditions for people and animals. If you suspect that the structure planned to be demolished might contain asbestos, let your demolition company know. Asbestos is one of the key reasons why getting a pre-demolition inspection is so important!

It is best that a skilled professional handles and disposes of any materials containing asbestos. Without proper care, there are severe health and environmental risks involved. Find a local demolition company in Kelowna that is equipped to assist with asbestos-containing materials. 

Soil Contamination

Soil contamination is a prominent problem when conducting demolition. During a demolition project, the soil becomes disturbed. This can be because of the demo itself or the heavy equipment that come-and-go from the site. Soil can become contaminated through contact with chemicals, oil, gas, or heavy metals. When the soil is disturbed, it is easier for it to be washed away by snow and rain. This can lead to the contaminated soil ending up in waterways and polluting them.

Before demolition, it is important to know how to manage contaminated soil in your municipality. Certain sediment control measures are likely in place in your city to prevent contamination. Your contractor will be able to ensure that these guidelines are met. 

Reduce, Reuse & Recycle With Your Demolition Company in Kelowna!

Yup, that’s right! Demolition companies do their very best to salvage usable materials from pre-existing structures. This helps to minimize waste and repurpose old materials. By taking the time to separate materials, you can help reduce the impact that demolition has on the environment! Help us keep usable materials out of landfills by practicing the three R’s in your next demo project.

Contact us Today!

Demolition is best done by a professional demolition company in Kelowna. At SWIPE we have several years of experience dealing with demolition, excavation, and asbestos/mould removal. For help with a residential demolition project, contact us today. We’d be happy to help you during the demolition process. If you have any questions regarding our procedure, feel free to reach out. We look forward to working with you in the near future. 

The post Demolition Company in Kelowna Talks Environmental Considerations appeared first on Swipe Contracting Ltd..

What to Ask Your Demolition Company in the Okanagan. 

Do you Have a Business License and Insurance?

The first step in hiring any construction company is to ask if the company has a business license. Working with a company off the books can be risky and there are fewer options if things go sideways. In this same vein, you should check to see if your demo company carries insurance.

Who handles the permits?

Generally speaking, the person who owns the demolition site will be responsible for obtaining the proper permits. The office of your municipality is where you will apply for a permit. Although, if you are unsure about how to get a permit in your area, your demolition company should be able to provide some guidance. This is one of the most favourable parts of working with a demolition company. Permitting can be one of the trickier aspects of demolition, so having a team of experts to guide you through the process is ideal. Moreover, a demolition company will see that you have  all the necessary permits. This ensures that you can complete your project above board. 

How do you Sort the Materials?

After a structure has been demolished, there will be a large volume of debris that needs to be dealt with. Unfortunately, all of the debris cannot be grouped together and disposed of. This is because all construction materials need to be discarded differently. For example, asbestos-containing materials will be dealt with in a different way than drywall. It is so important that materials are properly sorted before they arrive at the local landfill. Sorting materials is an extensive process that is key to helping the environment and practicing safe work habits. If you are interested in learning more about how we sort our demolition materials, check out this article “Sorting Used Materials With a Demolition Contractor in Kelowna”.

More Questions!

What if there are Hazardous Materials Present?

If you are demolishing a building, your demo team should conduct an inspection to ensure that there are no hazardous materials prior to demolition. Asbestos-containing substances can be life-threatening and impose all sorts of health and safety violations. Any demolition team that you hire should be well-versed in dealing with asbestos and mould. This also means knowing how to sort hazardous materials from recyclable materials.

How much experience do you have?

The experience level of your contractor and demo team will make a big difference in your project. Experienced professionals are a safer option in any scenario. This is because they have the skills and know-how to get the job done right. If you aren’t sure if your demolition team is right for the job, ask to see their portfolio. Moreover, you could reach out to an old client and ask about their experience working with the demo team. Whatever you choose, it is critical that you do your due diligence prior to hiring a contractor. 

What will the project cost? And, How Long Will it Take?

If your contractor knows what they’re doing, they won’t give you a quote over the phone. At least not without seeing the demolition site in person. Instead, they might provide you with a rough estimate based on past projects until they can properly assess the job site and determine a more precise timeline and cost estimate. When your contractor provides you with the quote for your project, make sure you ask for more information about any areas that are unclear. This way, there is minimal confusion and conflict between you and your demolition contractor. 

Contact Your Demolition Company in the Okanagan Now!

Demolition is best done by a professional demolition company in the Okanagan. At SWIPE we have several years of experience dealing with demolition and asbestos/mould removal. For help with a demolition job, contact us today. We’d be happy to help you during the demolition process. Furthermore, if you have any questions regarding our demolition process, feel free to reach out. We look forward to working with you in the near future. 

The post Questions to Ask Your Demolition Company in the Okanagan appeared first on Swipe Contracting Ltd..

Start by Communicating.

Communication with your neighbours is key to a successful demo project. If you think you can get away with demolishing your home without speaking to your neighbours first, you are crudely mistaken. The first step in any demolition project is to notify your neighbours. And, give plenty of notice. Put yourself in the shoes of your neighbours and think about how you’d feel if you woke up to a wrecking ball outside your window without warning. Chances are you’d be upset. Preserving a cordial relationship with your neighbours is essential. Be sure to notify people in your neighbourhood well before construction commences. This will give them time to make necessary adjustments. Especially, if they have small children or pets. 

Also, it is important to tell your neighbours about the significant dates of your project. For instance, you’ll need to mention things like pest control. Or, asbestos removal and when the project intends to begin and end. 

If your neighbours bring up any concerns about your project, do not ignore them. It is best to address any concerns right away. Your next-door neighbours have a right to ask questions about your project. Especially, if it is close to their property line. It is important to note, that if you need to use their property for any reason during the project you get written consent. 

Demolition in the Okanagan Involves Cleaning up.

Oftentimes, being neighbourly during a demolition project can simply mean cleaning up. Waste should be collected on a regular basis in order to prevent hazards and angry residents. Piles of waste are not only an eyesore but can also cause serious safety concerns for those living in proximity to your property. Building materials and debris should be disposed of properly at the end of each day. If there is lots of mud or dirt, then this should also be cleaned off of the streets following the workday. As a homeowner, you should also be wary of nails and sharp objects that could be on the roads near your property. Loose nails can pop tires and be dangerous for people/animals walking in the area. Keeping your demolition in the Okanagan clean is a key part of staying neighbourly. 

Be Mindful of Noise.

Noise is arguably the biggest concern for neighbours during a demolition project. Most bylaws indicate that you can only use construction equipment from 7:00 am until 7:00 pm Monday to Friday, 9:00 am until 7:00 pm on Saturdays, and no construction noise on Sundays and statutory holidays. During the times when noise is permitted, it is important to keep the volume at a minimum to ensure the consideration of your neighbours. After all, nobody wants to hear the banging of a jackhammer for eight hours straight! However, if you know that you are going to be using loud equipment for long periods during one of the days, notify your neighbours ahead of time. This is crucial especially if they work from home or have young children. 

Safety is the #1 Priority With Demolition in the Okanagan

Lastly, make sure that the demolition project remains safe. As a homeowner, it is your duty to ensure that the contractor you hire follows safety protocols and is upholding a safe work environment. Failure to do so can result in fatal accidents, which is why safety is so important during a demo. However, safety is about more than protecting people and pets. During a demolition project, you’ll need to make sure that none of the neighbourhood services are broken (water, power), your neighbours’ properties stay safe and dangerous materials/machinery aren’t left unattended. All of these things contribute to having a safe work environment in a neighbourhood setting.  

Demolition in the Okanagan is best done by an experienced team and contractor. At SWIPE we have plenty of expertise dealing with demolition and asbestos/mould removal. For help with a demolition job, contact us today. We’d be happy to help you during the demolition process. If you have any questions regarding staying neighbourly during the demolition process, feel free to reach out. We look forward to working with you in the near future.

The post Staying Neighbourly During Demolition in the Okanagan appeared first on Swipe Contracting Ltd..

Continuing reading below to learn more about this topic!

The Importance of Separating Demo Debris.

A demolition contractor in Kelowna must sort their waste before heading to the landfill. This is done for a number of reasons. Proper waste segregation allows landfill workers to provide the most appropriate treatment/disposal. Failure to properly separate waste can lead to harmful gases and severe environmental damage. For example, soil infertility and air pollution. By taking the time to properly sort waste, there is a reduced impact on the landfill, a higher recycling rate, lower waste costs, and potential revenue opportunities.

Construction and demolition produce some of the highest numbers of waste compared to other industries. Because of this, it is crucial that waste is properly disposed of. The demolition waste can be separated into a variety of different categories.

For instance:

• Insulation and asbestos
• Wood, glass, and plastic
• Concrete, bricks, tiles and ceramics
• Metallic waste and cables
• Cement
• Sealants and adhesives
• Paints and varnishes
• Soil and contaminated soil
• Asphalt mixtures, tar, and coal tar
• Electronic equipment (fridges, washing machines, batteries, light fixtures, etc)
• Waste Segregation Rules For A Demolition Contractor in Kelowna.

Waste Segregation Rules For A Demolition Contractor in Kelowna.

Every city has its own rules for waste management. Landfills may differ from area to area, however, the general principle of waste separation remains the same. The City of Kelowna has a strict number of rules surrounding the accepted disposal of waste. If these rules are not followed, you can be subject to a host of fines and penalties. At the Kelowna landfill, demolition and construction waste are charged at a rate of $102 per tonne with the exception of Gypsum board. Loads less than 250 kg are subject to a $12 minimum charge.

Asphalt shingles are accepted at the landfill as a recyclable material, however, additional charges will apply if they are mixed with other garbage. Furthermore, wood waste will be accepted if separated into clean wood (untreated, unpainted wood). Additionally, drywall or gypsum board must be sorted from any other garbage and certified to be asbestos-free before heading to the landfill. Drywall must also be sorted into new and used groups and then further separated by condition. The Kelowna landfill also accepts metal, concrete, asphalt, major appliances, and bulky wastes.

Dealing With Contaminated Materials.

Contaminated materials like those containing asbestos are accepted during a strict timeframe. As of 2022, the Kelowna landfill accepts asbestos-containing materials from 9 a.m to 1 p.m on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays. Moreover, asbestos products are only allowed in a certain quantity without prior approval. For those looking to dispose of greater quantities of asbestos-containing materials, the Kelowna Landfill will need to be contacted. Approval for your asbestos drop-off needs to be obtained 24 hours in advance of the disposal.

Furthermore, AC pipe (cement asbestos-containing pipe) has a special set of disposal rules because of its hazardous nature. Friable AC pipe needs to be treated as asbestos. However, non-friable AC pipe is considered to be non-hazardous. Despite this, AC pipe still requires special handling because if it is damaged in any way, it becomes friable and, therefore, dangerous.

*Note: Demolition cannot begin until an asbestos check is done on the building.

It is best that a skilled professional handles and disposes of any materials containing asbestos. Without proper care, there are severe health and environmental risks involved. Find a local demolition contractor in Kelowna for assistance with asbestos-containing materials.

Contact a Demolition Contractor in Kelowna Today!

Waste segregation is a vital part of any demolition or construction job. Without proper waste separation, you could be subject to a variety of consequences. In order to prevent health complications and environmental damage, it is crucial that waste is sorted accordingly. For help with a demolition job, contact us today. We’d be happy to help you during the demolition process. If you have any questions regarding waste removal and separation, feel free to reach out. We look forward to working with you in the near future.

The post Sorting Used Materials With a Demolition Contractor in Kelowna appeared first on Swipe Contracting Ltd..

After 15+ years of experience, at SWIPE Contracting, we know how to get the job done right. We encourage you to look for a professional contractor like us before you get any bad ideas about demolishing a structure yourself. Still not convinced that you need to hire a professional?

Please continue reading below.

An Okanagan Demolition Contractor is Safe.

Safety is the number one priority when executing a demolition project. For a safe demo project to start the existing gas, water, electrical, and steam services must be disconnected. And those are just a few of the hazards that can arise. There are also other safety concerns to consider. With proper planning, many of these pitfalls can easily be avoided.

Firstly, an assessment determines if there are any hazardous substances present in the structure. Asbestos is typically found in buildings constructed before 1970. There are serious health risks involved with demolishing a building where asbestos is present. Health authorities could require you to stop demolition if proper care is not taken to remove the asbestos before tearing the building down. Click here to read more about the information on the health risks of asbestos.

Swipe Contracting carefully prepares each demolition site. To protect everyone on site, we check that all high-risk collapse areas are braced, shored, and properly supported. Otherwise, falling debris can seriously injure workers from above. Also, there is a risk of sudden building collapses, so this precaution is imperative. In addition, the equipment can pose a serious risk to people working on a demolition site. If inexperienced workers accidentally tip the heavy machinery, then the driver is in serious danger.

Do not neglect the safety risks involved with tearing down a building. Serious harm to those employed is a real risk of carrying out a demolition improperly. Contact a professional contractor if you’d like to start the process of demolition.

Get the Job Done in a Timely Manner.

Another reason to hire an Okanagan demolition contractor is because of their efficiency. Having the process done in a timely manner requires you to have a contractor. Most demo companies have years of experience and several connections to engineers, architects, and city members. Thus, making the process much more efficient. Instead of waiting months to wrangle these people together, the company will take care of it for you. Moreover, they have other resources like materials and tools that speed up the process as well. By hiring a professional Okanagan demolition contractor, you’ll get the job done quickly and safely.

An Okanagan Demolition Contractor Has the Right Tools.

Having the right tools for the job is essential in safety and efficiency. To remove the debris we require special tools and equipment. Most of this equipment is extremely expensive to rent and sometimes requires proof of a commercial driver’s license. Many demolition contractors use long-reach excavators, material handlers, scrap shears, hydraulic hammers, and pulverizers to execute the demo. Don’t look to the Average Joe to get your job done in order to save a buck. They won’t be able to operate the machinery required in a safe or cost-effective manner. 

In addition, they won’t have the tools to dispose of the debris properly. Have you ever wondered where all of the concrete and metal scraps go after a building has been torn down? All of the pieces of the building need to be separated into recyclable materials, waste, and hazardous substances. All of which, are dealt with differently. An Okanagan demolition contractor can separate the debris into the correct categories. Correct disposal is important. You cannot recycle Asbestos-containing materials the same as wood or metal scraps bound for recycling. 

Hire SWIPE Contracting LTD Today.

If you’re in need of building demolition, contact us at SWIPE Contracting today! We’s be happy to help you start tearing down your desired structure. We are happy to come to assess the location and get the wrecking ball rolling. For more information don’t hesitate to reach out to us. It’s our duty to guarantee a safe and timely demolition process. We look forward to helping you out soon! Be sure to visit our website next month for more information and updates.

The post Why Hire an Okanagan Demolition Contractor? appeared first on Swipe Contracting Ltd..