The construction industry is responsible for a significant portion of America's municipal solid waste (MSW) production. Previously, when professionals rebuilt a home or commercial building, they would typically start from scratch. However, material waste creates adverse environmental effects and increases building costs.

Individuals developed the deconstruction method to reduce MSW, material costs, hazards and more. In some scenarios, demolition is more efficient than deconstruction, fueling a prebuilding dilemma. Construction workers can access the most beneficial building processes by exploring the pros and cons of both practices.

Demolition

Demolition is a standard construction practice and can effectively aid in structural rebuilding. When a building is beyond repair, companies can reuse the lot by first demolishing the structure. A complete tear-down may be the best option if a home has a faulty foundation, black mold or other unsafe features.

Demolishing vacant homes also improves a neighborhood's safety. When communities tear down unoccupied buildings, individuals notice a decrease in crime and injury. Demolition also takes less time than deconstruction, leading to the rebuilding of homes quickly after disasters and other time-sensitive events.  

In some cases, demolishing a building increases a lot's value. If the structural repairs cost more than the land, sellers may have a challenging time closing. Demolition also creates significant quantities of pollution, making deconstruction a more eco-conscious prebuilding option.

Deconstruction

There are two different types of deconstruction: selective and whole-house. Selective deconstruction includes collecting reusable materials from a designated room or area of a building before the demolition process. It effectively limits the pollution related to material manufacturing.

Whole-house deconstruction signifies the disassembling of an entire building without demolition. Professionals strategically remove reusable parts and leave the original foundation and structure. The process eliminates debris-caused pollution, improving the industry's conservation efforts.

The process is more sustainable than the selective version and demolition because it reduces material production emissions. The construction industry utilizes nearly 40% of Earth's raw material supply. Limiting resource exploitation can effectively reduce ecological degradation.

It also lowers landfill pollution, preventing eutrophication and adverse effects on surface-level ecosystems. Deconstruction also requires more workers, creating a higher employment rate in the construction industry. Additionally, it minimizes soil erosion, dust and noise pollution on and around a project site.

Why Does the Difference Matter?

When President Biden took office, he increased the nation's sustainability standards. He plans on creating a carbon-neutral country with significantly less waste production. Meeting Biden's eco-conscious goals requires an entire restructuring of construction practices.

The industry creates nearly 600 million tons of waste annually, and 90% comes from demolition. Replacing conventional demolition practices with deconstruction can significantly decrease ecological degradation. Understanding the difference between each process may improve the industry's sustainability.   

Prior Considerations

Though deconstruction is more sustainable than demolition, it is essential to consider some factors before choosing a preconstruction method. Deconstruction is a time-consuming job. It requires various workers and takes longer than other construction practices.

Individuals on a tight schedule may require the demolition practice. Additionally, deconstruction may cost more because you are paying a larger crew. If a building is in good condition, people can also save money on materials through repurposing.

Professionals must evaluate the building's material and structural state before choosing a prebuilding method. Certain elements can make demolition and deconstruction hazardous to workers and the environment. After weighing the advantages and disadvantages of both, companies can make an educated decision.

Taking the First Step

Engineers and construction workers can prepare for rebuilding by first evaluating local regulations. Many areas require low noise and surface-level pollution from construction projects. They also hold companies responsible for their waste production, fining them for noncompliance with regulations.

Professionals should reach out to the client, gauging their values and abiding by their expectations. Eco-consumer levels are rising, challenging construction workers' abilities to meet sustainable demands. When companies use deconstruction over demolition, they can effectively shrink their carbon footprints and appeal to more clientele. This solution can effectively meet everyone’s needs.

Author: Jane Marsh

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