demo do's and don'ts

Demo day can be nerve-wracking for homeowners.  It is noisy.  It is dusty.  It can reveal unpleasant surprises in the form of problems that impact project cost and duration.  While it can't be avoided, there are some tricks that can minimize the disruption.

• DO take care when removing plaster, drywall or tile around plumbing.  Breaking a pipe will quickly cause a flood.
• DO have your disposal plan in place and remove debris as you go
• DO demo walls before the ceiling (since the walls hold up the ceiling on the perimeter, removing them first makes tackling the ceiling easier)
• DON'T try to muscle the old wall materials - use leverage to your advantage (a crowbar is essential)
• DON'T forget your ppe (safety glasses and N-95 mask)