What you need to know about house demolitions
What you need to know about house demolitions
Find out what happens during house demolitions for a knockdown rebuild project.
Knockdown rebuild is the process of demolishing your existing home and building a completely new one on the same property. This is a great way to move into a new home, while still keeping the land you love so much.
Also, knockdown rebuild projects can save you the time and effort you would have had to spend on looking for new locations and new homes that meet your needs. Through knockdown rebuild, you can create a home that perfectly fits your unique requirements.
Most local councils and authorities require you to comply with demolition standards like AS 2601-2001. Demolition standards like this dictate certain regulations that need to be followed during the demolition of your old home. Before demolition can commence, all utilities such as gas, electricity, water, and sewerage must be safely disconnected. A professional asbestos inspection is required to identify and safely remove these materials. The removal must comply with strict regulations to protect workers and the environment.
Demolition of homes may be partial or full. Partial demolition retains specific structural elements (like a heritage façade) while removing the rest. For most residential properties, demolition is carried out mechanically. Heavy equipment such as excavators, bulldozers, and wrecking balls are used to tear down the structure systematically. Some demolition projects involve deconstruction, where parts of the building are dismantled piece by piece. Deconstruction is slower than traditional demolition but can help reduce waste.
Demolition of homes may be partial or full. Partial demolition retains specific structural elements (like a heritage façade) while removing the rest. For most residential properties, demolition is carried out mechanically. Heavy equipment such as excavators, bulldozers, and wrecking balls are used to tear down the structure systematically. Some demolition projects involve deconstruction, where parts of the building are dismantled piece by piece. Deconstruction is slower than traditional demolition but can help reduce waste.
Erecting fences and barriers around the site helps prevent unauthorised access and keeps both workers and the public safe. Demolition generates a significant amount of dust and noise. Water spray systems are often used to minimise dust, while noise barriers may be installed to reduce noise pollution for neighbouring properties. The site supervisor will oversee the demolition, ensuring that all activities comply with safety standards and regulations. Also, neighbours should be informed before the demolition of the home begins.
Levelling the ground is essential to provide a stable foundation for the new build, which may involve additional excavation or soil filling to ensure the site meets the new design. A thorough soil test is done to assess the ground’s stability, composition, and load-bearing capacity. These details are crucial for designing the new foundation and ensuring it complies with building codes and safety standards. Also, temporary utility connections are established to facilitate construction and ensure work can proceed smoothly.
Levelling the ground is essential to provide a stable foundation for the new build, which may involve additional excavation or soil filling to ensure the site meets the new design. A thorough soil test is done to assess the ground’s stability, composition, and load-bearing capacity. These details are crucial for designing the new foundation and ensuring it complies with building codes and safety standards. Also, temporary utility connections are established to facilitate construction and ensure work can proceed smoothly.
Why choose a knockdown rebuild over renovating?
A knockdown rebuild offers the opportunity to create a home that perfectly fits your needs and style without the limitations of an existing structure. It often proves more cost-effective and less stressful than extensive renovations, which can come with hidden surprises and costs.
What is the typical timeline for a knockdown rebuild project?
The timeline for a knockdown rebuild varies depending on factors like the size of the new home and site conditions. Generally, the process can take 12-18 months from start to finish, including design, approvals, demolition, and construction.
Can I keep certain features of my existing home in a knockdown rebuild?
A knockdown rebuild involves constructing a brand-new home, so all existing structures are typically removed. However, you can replicate or incorporate similar features into your new home’s design.