As we noted in our September 2022 blog, residential demolition projects require more than just swinging a sledgehammer. Specifically, when it comes to demolishing your bathroom, there is a process for how to your remove the different fixtures. Bathrooms vary in age, size, and range of the elements. Below are suggestions to demolish your bathroom safely and efficiently, and employ hauling services near me. In addition, we encourage you to first do your research before tackling any demo job.
- Do the research.
First, learn the age of your home and the year that is was built. If your home was built before 1978, you could expose asbestos that can be found anywhere from the floor to the ceiling tiles, or inside the wall and pipe insulation. Additionally, many homes built prior to 1978 could have lead-based paint. If left undisturbed, both materials are not hazardous, but once they are exposed during a demotion, toxins in the dust are released into the air and are dangerous to inhale. Therefore, it’s important to test the area to determine if lead or asbestos is present and then determine if you need to hire a certified contractor for expert removal.
Next determine what type of wires and lines are located behind the walls, such as gas, electrical, etc. You will want to mark those and be careful not to sever them during demolition.
Lastly, you should understand what types of materials are in your bathroom, such as tile, fiberglass, marble, etc. Once you know, we recommend doing a little research to determine the best way to tackle each area of the bathroom for removal.
If you are comfortable and capable to proceed on your own, then you will want to search for “hauling services near me” and rent a dumpster before you begin.
- Get prepared.
For any demolition job, you should always wear protective eyewear. You will also want to have protective ear plugs, a pair of work gloves, and the right set of tools. Depending on the type of materials in the bathroom, these tools might include: Utility Knife, Wrench, Pry Bar, Hammer, Putty Scraper, a Bucket, as well as a Reciprocating and Drywall Saw. It’s also good to have some WD-40 on hand to assist in loosening areas that are too tight for a wench alone.
Remember to shut off the water supply, electrical and gas, if relevant, to the bathroom before you begin. Make sure to take advantage of daylight and have a flashlight handy for spaces like under the sink.
During the process, stop and take frequent trips to the dumpster or disposal area for pick up while you work so you do not risk tripping on loose debris. Use a Shop-Vac to suck up excess dust to avoid a slipping hazard.
- Remove each area, one at a time.
If you are able to proceed on your own without the need of a certified professional to mitigate any hazardous situations, then remove the toilet and sink(s) first to create more room for the demolition of larger items.
Flush the toilet to remove remaining water in the bowl and then disconnect the connector/ intake valve. Depending on the type of toilet, you may need to remove a separate tank on the back first by unfasten the mounting bolts. Then unfasten the bolts securing the toilet to the floor and break the wax seal holding it in place at the bottom. After you remove the toilet, then scrape away any remaining wax left behind. Lastly use an old towel or cloth to place over the hole that is left after removing the toilet.
Removing the sink and vanity is easier with a bucket, an adjustable wrench and a utility knife. Use the bucket and place it under the drain trap since there will still be water left in the pipes. Use the wrench to begin loosening the nuts around the pipe in the curve and where the water lines come through the wall. When you are ready to remove the vanity, you may want to secure some additional help because countertops can be heavy and awkward to handle.
Follow thru on your research to remove the remaining areas whether it is fiberglass or tile. This part can be the more tedious part of the demolition, so do not overcomplicate it with avoidable mistakes. For example, the removal of tile will require a hammer and chisel that edge the border areas. Learn about the best ways to cut through drywall and avoid cutting wall studs. This could be a good time in the process to find and use “hauling services near me.” Allow a seasoned professional to demolish the rest of the bathroom safely.
Between removal of each area in the bathroom, compile all the debris into a dumpster or receptacle. Be sure to sweep up as much dust and pieces as possible and keep the area clean while you are working.
Partner with one of the beat professional junk hauling services near me, and let Easy Hauling Services be your expert for residential demolition services in Crofton, MD.
Review their page “Residential & Commercial Demolition & Hauling” to learn more.
Easy Hauling Services provides junk removal, hauling services, and demolition service throughout Maryland. Their specialized vehicles are tailored to getting the task accomplished safely and economically. Fully enclosed trucks will protect your donations from the elements and weather. Trailers and open beds can be used to transport your clean out contents, yard debris and general junk which may need taken to the dump, recycling or for donation. Don’t just search for “residential demolition services in Crofton, MD,” call Easy Hauling Services today 410-991-2945 for a quote or to schedule a service.