Why Are Commercial Buildings Demolished Instead Of Repurposed?

The Blight Problem in Pittsburgh If you've ever driven through certain Pittsburgh neighborhoods and noticed boarded-up homes, crumbling facades, or entire structures abandoned and overgrown, you're not alone. These condemned buildings are more than just eyesores—they're signs of urban blight, a problem that affects residents, property owners, businesses, and entire communities. But what exactly is a condemned building? In simple terms, a condemned building is a property that the local government has deemed unfit or unsafe for occupancy, often due to severe structural issues, long-term neglect, or persistent code violations. Pittsburgh, like many Rust Belt cities, faces a significant challenge with vacant and condemned properties—particularly in neighborhoods impacted by economic shifts, population decline, or historic disinvestment. According to the City of Pittsburgh, thousands of abandoned or blighted structures are scattered throughout the city, posing safety hazards, dragging down property values, and contributing to crime and environmental hazards. If you're a homeowner, business owner, community organizer, or simply a concerned neighbor, you might wonder: What can be done? This guide explains everything you need to know about condemned buildings in Pittsburgh, why they matter, and how you can take action—whether by reporting unsafe conditions, organizing community efforts, or advocating for lasting solutions.

Private demolition in Pittsburgh refers to the removal of a structure at the private owners request rather than the city stepping in to instigate or fund the demolition of a building that is in the way, or has been deemed unsafe. The city of Pittsburgh understands the processes involved in obtaining these permits, and Schaaf can obtain the permits on your behalf as a private owner, but it is important to understand what is required when obtaining these permits. Changes to this process were also made in April of 2021, so if you have obtained a demolition permit prior to this time, your understanding could use a refresher! Private Demolition Requirements If you intend to demolish a commercial or residential structure in the city of Pittsburgh, or any of the annexed areas, be sure to check out their definitions for commercial and residential structures, and take note the following requirements: Demolition Permit Cost The cost of the demolition permit is now determined by the value of the demolition project. This would be the quote provided to you by the demolition contractor. If this number increases or decreases during the permit process this can cause the cost of the permit to change. For a residential demolition permit, the base fee is $6.00 per $1000 of the construction value with a minimum of $130 and a maximum of $8,000 dollars. 40% of this is due when you submit your permit application, and the remaining 60% is paid when the permit is issued. For example, if you were quoted $10,000 to demolish a two story single family dwelling, this would amount to $60, but with the minimum at $130, that would be your adjusted cost. Be sure to note, in using this tool that this fee has fees of its own including a tech fee, SETF fee, and a digital retention fee which would add $11.50 onto our previously established $130. The city of Pittsburgh has made its 2025 permit fee schedule available online, along with the permits licenses and inspections calculator Contract Prior to April 27, 2021 a copy of the contract between the permit holder, and the property owner was required to obtain the permit. Now this is no longer the case. It is still good to get a written contract, but the city of Pittsburgh no longer needs to review it. Certificate of Insurance The permit holder, usually the demolition contractor, was previously required to have proof of insurance during the application process, however updates in 2021 require this after the permit has been issued instead. Insurance is crucial so that any damages that occur are covered. The minimum requirements for insurance are $500,000 general liability coverage and $250,000 property damage coverage. Residential Accessory Structure A residential accessory structure refers to a shed, detached garage, or any smaller building that is not the main residence. If the intended demolition project is solely for an accessory structure, a building permit will suffice instead. Additionally, the demolition is permitted to be carried out by the property owner if the residence on the property is their primary dwelling. It can also be performed by a general contractor licensed in the state of Pennsylvania. If the main home is the subject to be demolished these items do not apply. Demolition Narrative A demolition narrative is required for all demolition permits submitted after May 14th, 2021. This applies to commercial and residential structures. A demolition narrative is a mandatory breakdown of: The equipment and methods used during demolition Where equipment will be staged when not in operation Assessment of where the building may fall Safety measures in place for buildings, properties, pedestrians and vehicles present in proximity to an area where the building may fall. For commercial structures, this demolition narrative must be performed by an engineer or architect that is licensed by the state of Pennsylvania. If the structure is residential, this document does not need to be produced by a Pennsylvania licensed architect or engineer. Special Conditions There are special conditions that cannot be ignored and do require a report from a licensed engineer or architect. These pertain to attached structures, compton walls, basement walls, site conditions with a higher risk of landslides, steep slopes, or property under which mining has occurred. Attached Structure: In the event that partial or selective demolition is required to preserve part of the structure, a plan needs to be in place so that this structure is protected, and weather proofed. Common Walls: If two structures share a wall, the engineer or architect will need to recommend solutions that will preserve the parts of the structure that will remain, similar to the attached structure mentioned above. Weatherization must occur after demolition has been performed on the other structure. Basement Walls: The engineer or architect in this scenario will need to provide a plan if a shared basement wall or an abutted basement wall is present. This ensures that the remaining wall remains load bearing, and no moisture moves to the adjacent or abutted basement wall. Demolition Site Conditions Demolition of any structure in Pittsburgh requires a further look by an engineer if the land is: Given To Landslides If the demolition site has a history of, or an increased risk of landslide, the engineer will need to evaluate the situation for a path forward that retains stability during and after the demolition has been completed. They will also need to take into account the preservation of any additional structures or vegetation present on the lot. Sharp Inclines If the demolition site includes a steep hill that could impact the intended demolition project an engineer or architect will need to provide a report with recommendations on how to preserve any other structures or vegetation that is present. Residual Mines There has been extensive mining done in Pennsylvania in the Pittsburgh area over the years. There are several ways of discovering whether you have a mine underneath your property that could affect demolition. Mine maps from Penn State University is one such way. If the area has been mined under, an engineer or architect licensed in the state of Pennsylvania will need to provide recommendations on how to maintain demolition site stability during and after demolition is complete. This could include mine grouting; which involves filling the mine with a material like cement to fill the void caused by the mine. The application requires a coal status report from the department of environmental protection. Permissions and Inspections Required Of Demolition Permit Holder Touched on briefly above, these inspections are required with no exception to be present where in addition to an approved demolition narrative and engineer/architect reports where they apply: Pre-construction Inspection Pre construction establishes existing conditions of the structure, the presence of a basement, and ensures protective measures are in place with the inspector before any demolition operations commence. Void Inspection For a void inspection, and permission to backfill any structure basement, documentation of The Allegheny Health Department and water utility’s approval of water and sewer line termination is required along with the requirement that concrete slabs and basement building materials are broken into pieces that are 24 inches or less and waterproofing of basement walls if required. Final Inspection The final inspection requires that copies of receipts from the entity disposing of the rubble identify the site location and the locations where the materials were disposed of with the dates included The voids or the holes in the ground left over from demolition of the structure are required to be filled with contaminant free material that is safe for landscaping projects. Clean fill does not include: wood roots grass coal shale with carbon The top level grade requires no less than four inches of topsoil. The area of disturbed ground is required to have grass seed and straw after the project is completed and all work required by the permit must be completed. This includes restoration to other buildings that are near the demolished structure that may have received collateral damage, and safety measures put in place such as retaining walls, guards, or fences if these are deemed necessary by the permit. Contact Schaaf For Private Demolition Services Today! Schaaf Excavating contractors provide demolition services for private and public entities in the city of Pittsburgh and the surrounding areas. We are well versed in the full process of demolition from permits to final inspection. With safety and customer satisfaction at the forefront of every operation, Schaaf Excavating Contractors is poised to make your demolition project as seamless as possible. Contact us for a quote today!

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Demolition projects, whether large or small, generate a substantial amount of waste. The ability to accurately estimate and analyze demolition waste is crucial for efficient project planning, cost management, and environmental responsibility. At Schaaf Excavating Contractors, we specialize in demolition and waste management, providing professional services that ensure your demolition project is handled safely, efficiently, and in an eco-friendly manner. In this article, we’ll explore how to estimate demolition waste from buildings and analyze its components to optimize the process. Why Estimating Demolition Waste Matters When embarking on a demolition project, one of the first steps is estimating the amount of demolition waste that will be generated. This estimate is essential for several reasons: Cost management: Proper estimates help contractors budget for waste disposal costs and select the right waste removal services. Compliance: Many local governments, including those in Pennsylvania, have regulations regarding the disposal of demolition waste, and estimates ensure compliance with these rules. Environmental impact: Accurate estimates enable better recycling and reuse strategies, reducing the environmental footprint of the project. At Schaaf Excavating Contractors, we provide detailed waste estimates as part of our demolition services. This helps our clients manage costs and ensure that waste is handled in the most responsible way possible. Key Components of Demolition Waste Concrete and Masonry Concrete and masonry waste typically make up the largest portion of demolition debris from buildings. This material is heavy and requires careful disposal planning. However, concrete and masonry are also highly recyclable. At Schaaf Excavating Contractors, we can crush and reuse concrete as aggregate in future construction projects, significantly reducing waste. Wood and Timber Wood is another common component of demolition waste. While untreated wood can be reused or recycled, painted or treated wood may need special disposal due to chemical content. Accurate waste estimation allows us to separate reusable wood from waste that requires disposal. Metals Steel, iron, aluminum, and copper are frequently found in building structures. These materials are not only recyclable but also valuable, making it essential to separate them from other types of demolition waste. Schaaf Excavating Contractors can help recover these metals efficiently, turning waste into valuable resources. Glass and Plastics Glass and plastics are typically found in windows, doors, and insulation materials. While these components can be challenging to recycle, identifying them early in the project allows us to arrange for specialized recycling or safe disposal. Estimating the volume of glass and plastics helps reduce landfill contributions and improve recycling rates. Hazardous Materials Old buildings often contain hazardous materials such as asbestos, lead paint, or certain chemicals. These require special handling and disposal. At Schaaf Excavating Contractors, we provide hazardous material identification and removal services, ensuring your demolition waste complies with environmental safety standards. Steps to Estimate Demolition Waste Conduct a Building Survey Before any demolition begins, a thorough survey of the building should be conducted. This includes assessing the types of materials used, the structure’s size, and any potential hazardous materials present. This step is essential in creating an accurate estimate of demolition waste. At Schaaf Excavating Contractors, we conduct comprehensive building surveys as part of our demolition planning services. Our experienced team carefully evaluates the building to identify all potential waste streams. Use Volume-Based Calculations A common method for estimating demolition waste is calculating the volume of the building's materials. This method involves measuring the dimensions of key components like walls, floors, and roofs, then multiplying by an estimated material density. Volume-based calculations help project the total amount of debris that will need to be removed. For example: A concrete wall can be measured for height, width, and depth, with the volume calculated in cubic meters. This is then multiplied by the density of concrete to estimate the weight of demolition waste generated. Similar calculations are used for wood, metal, and other materials. We at Schaaf Excavating Contractors use advanced tools to perform precise volume-based estimates, ensuring that no aspect of waste management is overlooked. Consider the Waste Conversion Factors Each material has its own waste conversion factor, which helps translate the volume of material into weight. These factors take into account how much of each material will become demolition waste and how much can be reused or recycled. Common conversion factors include: Concrete: 2.4 tons per cubic meter Wood: 0.6 tons per cubic meter Metal: 7.8 tons per cubic meter (depending on the type of metal) Understanding these factors allows us to provide more accurate estimates and identify which materials are most suitable for recycling. Schaaf Excavating Contractors uses these conversion factors to generate accurate waste estimates, helping clients plan for both disposal and recycling needs. Analyzing and Managing Demolition Waste Sorting and Separation Effective demolition waste management requires proper sorting and separation of materials. By separating recyclables like concrete, metals, and wood from hazardous or non-recyclable materials, the amount of waste sent to landfills is minimized. At Schaaf Excavating Contractors, we prioritize recycling and reusing materials whenever possible. Our team is skilled in sorting demolition waste on-site, ensuring that recyclable materials are processed properly, while hazardous materials are disposed of safely. Recycling and Reuse One of the best ways to minimize the environmental impact of demolition projects is by maximizing recycling and reuse. Materials like concrete, steel, and wood can often be repurposed in future construction projects, saving both resources and costs. Our demolition services at Schaaf Excavating Contractors focus heavily on sustainability. We partner with local recycling centers to ensure that as much demolition waste as possible is diverted from landfills. Disposal of Non-Recyclable Waste Unfortunately, not all demolition waste can be recycled. Materials like certain plastics, glass, and hazardous substances often require disposal in specialized landfills or treatment facilities. Proper disposal is essential for ensuring compliance with environmental regulations. We handle all aspects of demolition waste disposal at Schaaf Excavating Contractors, ensuring that non-recyclable waste is dealt with according to the highest safety and environmental standards. How Schaaf Excavating Contractors Can Help At Schaaf Excavating Contractors, we offer comprehensive demolition and waste management services, including: Building surveys to estimate waste and identify recyclable materials Waste separation to maximize recycling and reduce landfill contributions Hazardous material removal to ensure safe and compliant disposal Efficient debris removal using advanced equipment and techniques Recycling partnerships to ensure sustainable waste management practices Our expertise in demolition waste management ensures that your project is completed efficiently and in an environmentally responsible manner. From estimating waste to managing debris, Schaaf Excavating Contractors is your trusted partner for all your demolition needs in Pittsburgh. Accurately estimating and analyzing demolition waste is critical to the success of any demolition project. By following best practices in estimation, sorting, and recycling, you can reduce costs, comply with environmental regulations, and minimize the impact of your project on the environment. If you’re planning a demolition and need expert assistance in managing the waste, contact Schaaf Excavating Contractors today. We provide professional demolition services that prioritize safety, efficiency, and sustainability. Let us handle your demolition waste with precision and care.

Imagine finding out that your home or business is harboring a hidden danger that could affect the health of everyone who steps inside. That's precisely the case with asbestos, a once-common building material now known for its severe health risks. Many older buildings may still contain asbestos, making its safe removal critical. In this blog post, we'll explore what you need to know about the asbestos abatement process. We'll cover everything from understanding asbestos and its dangers to navigating the complex steps of professional removal. Whether you're a homeowner or a property manager, this guide will provide you with the knowledge to ensure a safe environment for your home or commercial property. What is Asbestos? Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that was often used in construction due to its heat resistance, electrical insulation properties, and durability. It was commonly found in insulation, ceiling tiles, floor tiles, roofing shingles, and cement products. Buildings constructed before the 1980s are particularly likely to contain asbestos, but there is no official cut-off date for asbestos found in buildings. The fibrous nature of asbestos made it an attractive option for reinforcing materials, providing additional strength and longevity. However, the same fibers that made asbestos useful also pose significant health risks when disturbed. How Asbestos Affects Demolition The presence of asbestos in a structure comes with a few complications. The cost of demolition is affected when asbestos is present . This is partially because it needs to be disposed separately and safely. It is also because working around asbestos creates an added layer of health risk for the demolition experts in charge of the task. Health Risks of Asbestos Exposure When asbestos-containing materials are damaged or otherwise disturbed, they release tiny fibers into the air. Inhaling these fibers can cause severe health problems. Prolonged exposure is linked to diseases such as asbestosis, lung cancer, and mesothelioma. These conditions often have long latency periods, meaning symptoms might not manifest until decades after exposure. The Importance of Prompt Removal Given the severe health risks, prompt identification and removal of asbestos are crucial. Even minimal exposure can be hazardous, so addressing any potential asbestos presence as soon as possible is essential. This is why professional asbestos abatement is vital—it ensures that the material is handled and removed safely, minimizing the risk of fiber release and exposure. The Asbestos Abatement Process Inspection The first step for asbestos abatement is a thorough inspection by a certified professional. This involves identifying and testing suspect materials within your property. Sampling is carried out under strict safety protocols to avoid fiber release. The samples are then analyzed in a lab to confirm the presence of asbestos. Containment Once asbestos is identified, containment measures are implemented to prevent the spread of fibers. This typically involves sealing the affected area with plastic sheeting and creating a controlled environment using negative air pressure machines. These machines ensure that contaminated air does not escape the containment area. Removal Trained abatement specialists conduct the actual removal of asbestos-containing materials. They use specialized equipment and wear protective gear to safely remove and package the materials for disposal. All procedures follow regulatory guidelines to ensure maximum safety. Cleaning After removal, the containment area is thoroughly cleaned to remove any remaining asbestos fibers. This includes using HEPA vacuums and wet wiping surfaces with approved solutions. Post-Removal Testing After the removal process, the area undergoes thorough cleaning and decontamination. Air quality tests are performed to check for the presence of asbestos fibers. Only when the tests confirm that the area is asbestos-free is it considered safe for reoccupation. How Long Does The Asbestos Abatement Process Take? The length of the asbestos abatement process can vary depending on the size of the affected area and the complexity of the project. A simple removal may take a few days, while a larger project could take several weeks. Allowing enough time for testing and proper removal procedures is essential to ensure complete safety. Selecting an Asbestos Abatement Contractor Qualifications and Experience Choosing a qualified asbestos abatement contractor is crucial to ensuring the safety and effectiveness of the removal process. Look for contractors with proper certifications and licenses. Experience in handling similar projects is also a key factor to consider. References and Reviews Check out their references and read reviews from their previous clients. A reputable contractor should have a record of successful abatement projects and satisfied customers. Don't hesitate to ask for testimonials or testimonials that demonstrate their expertise. Compliance with Regulations Ensure that the contractor adheres to all local, state, and federal regulations regarding asbestos handling and disposal. Compliance with these types of regulations is a legal requirement and a critical part of ensuring safety for all involved during the abatement process. After the Asbestos Abatement Ensuring Safety Once the abatement process is complete, ensuring the property's safety is essential. This may involve additional air quality testing, especially if any renovation or construction work is planned in the future. Regular inspections can help catch any other potential issues early. Restoring the Property After abatement, restoration of the property to its original state might be necessary. This could include repairing or replacing removed materials. Hiring professionals who are experienced in post-abatement restoration can help ensure that the property is functional and safe. Ongoing Vigilance Even after successful abatement, it's essential to remain vigilant. Keep records of the abatement work done and monitor any new construction materials or renovations to ensure they do not reintroduce asbestos into the environment. Work with Schaaf Excavating Contractors for Asbestos Abatement The presence of asbestos in your home or property poses serious health risks that cannot be ignored. Proper and prompt asbestos removal is crucial to safeguard the health of all occupants. At Schaaf Excavating Contractors, we are committed to providing expert asbestos abatement services. Our team of certified asbestos professionals ensures that the asbestos removal process is conducted safely and efficiently. Contact us today to learn how we can help you with your asbestos abatement needs.

Demolition is as much about precision as it is about destruction. The process involves a certain degree of risk from small residential projects to large-scale commercial tear-downs . Ensuring safety during demolition is paramount—not just for the workers but also for the surrounding environment and infrastructure. This blog post will guide construction professionals through the top 10 safety tips for demolition, ensuring that every project is carried out with a high standard care and professionalism. Safety in Demolition Matters Safety in demolition is not simply a matter of compliance. It’s about protecting lives and properties, minimizing risks, and ensuring project success. Demolition sites are inherently dangerous—unpredictable structural collapses, flying debris, and exposure to hazardous materials are just some potential hazards. Construction professionals can mitigate these risks by focusing on safety and creating a safer work environment. This article will cover essential safety tips to help you execute demolition projects successfully. By following these guidelines, you’ll be better equipped to handle the complexities of demolition work, ensuring that the projects are completed with safety and efficiency in mind.

Walking past a house that seems lifeless and abandoned can be unsettling. Not only does it affect the aesthetic appeal of your neighborhood, but it also impacts property values and community safety. Homeowners play a crucial role in addressing such issues. In this blog post, we'll explore what you can do about an abandoned house in your neighborhood, offering practical steps and resources to help rejuvenate your community. Identifying the Problem Signs of an Abandoned House Spotting an abandoned house isn't always straightforward, but there are some telltale signs to watch out for. Look for overgrown yards, boarded-up windows, and a general lack of maintenance. Notices from the city or utility companies posted on the doors can also indicate abandonment. Additionally, expired licenses or permits stuck on the windows may indicate that no one has lived there for a while. Impact on Property Values An abandoned house can significantly drag on local property values. Potential buyers are often wary of purchasing homes in areas with visible neglect, fearing the potential for crime or further deterioration. Real estate experts note that a single abandoned house can reduce the value of nearby properties by as much as 20%. This ripple effect means that the problem impacts the immediate vicinity and the broader community. Community Safety Concerns Abandoned houses can become hotbeds for criminal activities, ranging from vandalism to squatting. They can also pose safety risks, such as fire hazards due to neglected electrical systems or structural dangers from deteriorating buildings. Furthermore, they can become breeding grounds for pests that affect neighboring homes. Legal and Financial Implications Laws and Local Regulations Understanding the legal landscape surrounding abandoned properties is essential. Many cities have specific ordinances that dictate how long a property can remain vacant before legal action is taken. Homeowners should familiarize themselves with local laws regarding property maintenance and abandonment. In some areas, there may be penalties for neglecting upkeep, which can be leveraged to encourage property owners to take action. Financial Burdens The financial burden of an abandoned house doesn't fall solely on the absent homeowner; it impacts the entire neighborhood. Municipalities often spend significant resources managing abandoned properties, from mowing lawns to securing buildings. Taxpayer dollars typically cover these expenses, meaning the entire community bears the cost. Additionally, neighborhoods with abandoned homes may see increased insurance premiums due to higher perceived risks. Potential Homeowners Understanding the financial implications is crucial for those interested in acquiring an abandoned property. While these homes can sometimes be purchased at a lower cost, they often require extensive renovations. Potential buyers should conduct thorough inspections and budget accordingly for repairs and improvements. Additionally, they should be aware of any liens or back taxes owed on the property, as these could add to the overall cost. What You Can Do Steps to Take as a Concerned Neighbor or Homeowner If you notice an abandoned house in your neighborhood, there are several steps you can take. Start by documenting the condition of the property with photos and notes. Contact your local city council or housing authority to report the issue and inquire about any existing plans to address the property. Contacting neighbors to discuss the situation and gather additional information can also be helpful. Community Resources and Support Many communities offer resources to help address abandoned properties. Local non-profits and community organizations often have programs focused on neighborhood revitalization. These groups can provide valuable support, from connecting you with legal resources to organizing community clean-up efforts. Additionally, some cities offer grant programs or low-interest loans for homeowners willing to rehabilitate abandoned properties. Legal Action Legal action may be necessary to resolve issues with abandoned properties in certain cases. This could involve filing a complaint with your local housing court or working with an attorney to pursue legal remedies. While this can be a more time-consuming and costly approach, it may be necessary when property owners are unresponsive or negligent. Work with Schaaf Excavating Contractors to Address Abandoned Properties in Your Pittsburgh Addressing abandoned properties is crucial for maintaining your neighborhood's health, safety, and aesthetics. While the process may seem daunting, taking proactive steps can lead to positive changes. Remember, you're not alone in this; your community and local authorities are valuable allies in reclaiming and revitalizing your area. If you need a professional touch to handle an abandoned property, consider contacting Schaaf Excavating Contractors. Here's why: Expertise: With years of experience in the industry, we bring unbeatable expertise to every demolition project . Safety: Our top priority is ensuring all demolition activities are conducted without harming people or the environment. Efficiency: Equipped with state-of-the-art machinery, we guarantee efficient and timely project completion. Comprehensive Services: From initial assessment to debris removal, Schaaf Excavating Contractors handle all aspects of the job, offering you peace of mind. Community Focused: As a Pittsburgh-based company, we understand local regulations and community needs, making them the perfect partner for your project. Compliance: Schaaf Excavating Contractors are fully licensed and insured, ensuring that your project will be done safely and in compliance with all regulations. Always seek legal advice before taking action, following your local laws and regulations in relation to abandoned properties. Taking action today can lead to a more vibrant and safe neighborhood tomorrow. Don't wait—contact Schaaf Excavating Contractors and take the first step towards restoring beauty and safety to your community.