DIY Demo
DIY Demo
Save Time and Money Doing Demo Right!
Ok…admit it…how many of you are HGTV junkies? Through these shows the Flippers, Fixer’s and DIYer’s have come alive with so many creative and “inexpensive” ways to transform spaces. Often times these transformations involve crews of contractors, unattainable deadlines and tight budgets. Anyone who has done a home renovation knows in the end it’s well worth it but what’s the secret to affordable updates?
Demo is often an area that homeowners feel they can get involved in to help save time and tighten up their budgets. Before you take that sledge hammer or reciprocating saw (you might have to google this one) to your existing cabinets, drywall or flooring (as they do in most of these shows), grab a level, pencil and utility knife instead. Smashing up your space might seem like a desirable stress reliever however it’s a sure way to add aggravation and unnecessary work to your demolition. Demo done incorrectly can actually end up costing more than the Contractor originally bid.
Plan and calculate your demo work. These tips will save you time, money and possibly a Contractor redo (which equals more time and money.)
~Know where your breaker box and water shut off are and make sure they 
are easily accessible. Cracking pipes or severing wires are risks to be prepared for.
~Map out your stopping points. Use that level and pencil to make straight and level lines. This will make for a clean match with your new materials.
~Use your utility knife to go along these lines cutting the drywall all the way through. The areas to consider cutting include calking around cabinets and countertops, baseboards, windows and trim.
~Pull your drywall off in larger pieces if possible. Unless your ultimate goal is to get your 10,000 steps to and from the dumpster.
~Remove all screws and nails that are securing your cabinets to the walls. You want to “take” the cabinets out not “tear” them out.
~Safety is always a concern. Protective wear for eyes, ears and hands are recommended. And consider a dust mask. If your home is older, 40 years plus, we recommend checking for lead and asbestos prior to starting demo.
And keep in mind there are many non-profit organizations that would love to have your “gently demo’d” materials.
Happy Remodeling!
Denise Krogman, Allied ASID
RDK Design and Build
