Reconstruction/Deconstruction/Wall Removal

The process by which the interior walls of a structure are removed.

Wall Removal

Suggested Tools:

• Wrecking bar
• Hammer
• Shovel
• Wheelbarrow

Suggested PPE:

• 3M Half-face respirator with p100 filters
• Gloves
• Boots
• Tyvek suit (optional)
• Safety goggles (optional)

Drywall

Before you begin

    *Get your suggested tools. 
    *Plan where you will put the debris. 
    *Use dropcloths to protect the floor coverings. 
    *Cut off the power to any electrical in the wall.

When you are ready

    Remove the doors 
    Remove the trim 
    Remove the drywall by knocking holes in it and pulling it off
    Knock the studs out one at the time and 
     then remove your top and bottom plate
    Remove any electrical by tracing it back 
     to where it originates from and safely leave it in an electrical box.

Tips

    you can reduce the mess by cutting along the center of the 
     wall studs with a sharp knife. You only need to cut through the paper. 
    All the way through will reduce the mess even further.

Wood Paneling

Before

  Ask yourself questions like.
    What is this paneling applied to?
    Does it have sheetrock or something behind it
    was it attached directly to the studs? 
    Also, are you attempting to salvage the paneling 
      or will you simply throw it away? 
     (If it was applied with an adhesive, plan on not being able to salvage it!) ==

When Ready

     Start removing the paneling
     If it was just nailed, start at a joint 
       and work it loose with a small pry bar or a stiff putty knife
       Once the first panel is off of each wall, 
       the rest are easier since you can get to the edge easier.