The Importance of Proper Asbestos Removal in New Jersey Demolition Projects

We’ve all heard about asbestos, most often with a fearful worry about coming in contact with it. Have you ever wondered if the hype and worry are really valid? Is it just an “old wives’ tale” that you should avoid asbestos materials at all costs? 

Today we are going to take a closer look at asbestos, what it is, where it can be found, and how you know if it’s present. Asbestos is especially important to know about if you’re getting ready to undergo the demolition of your New Jersey home or commercial building. Knowledge is power, and in this case, safety.

What Is Asbestos?

Asbestos is a building material that was often used in building homes and commercial properties across the country for several years. Its use began in the early 1900s but became more popular in the 40s. Once it was found to be highly toxic, its use was halted. The discontinuation of asbestos use didn’t happen until the 1970s and even up to 1980. That’s 30-40 years of substantial asbestos use. You can only imagine how many buildings and homes around the world contain asbestos materials!

So, what exactly is asbestos made of? Asbestos is a group of naturally occurring fibrous minerals mined and milled from rock. This material can be found in most countries across the world, but most of it comes from Canada, Australia, South Africa, and the former Soviet Union. It’s a strong substance that doesn’t corrode and is heat and chemical resistant, hence the appeal to use it in various materials. In fact, according to the New Jersey Department of Health, it has been estimated that 3,000 different types of commercial products contain asbestos. 

Some asbestos-containing material (ACM) can be found in households as well, including:

• Textured ceilings
• Roofing materials
• Siding material
• Cement panels
• Attic insulation
• Vinyl floor tiles
• Certain types of linoleum
• HVAC duct insulation
• Plaster
• Hot water pipe insulation
• Boiler lagging
• Various fire protection materials

Regulations for Demolition Involving Asbestos

The New Jersey demolition regulations that involve asbestos change depend on what is removed or demolished. Your best and safest route should always be hiring an asbestos abatement professional to handle the removal and disposal of all asbestos materials. Demolition and renovations tend to disturb materials that contain asbestos, even when they’re handled carefully. Safety is the number one priority in all asbestos removal cases. 

Once asbestos materials are removed, they can be taken to a landfill that is qualified to take asbestos waste. There are specific protocols for disposing of asbestos waste, and your abatement professional will know the requirements for your region. These protocols often include wetting the materials and placing them in plastic before they can be transported and disposed of. At the landfill, these packaged materials will then be buried.

It's important to know that if you decide to remove asbestos on your own and then illegally dump it, you could face some hefty fines and even jail time. Safety for all involved (and those not directly involved) is critical in the handling of asbestos! 

Did you know that, in some cases, asbestos can even be recycled at specific locations? During recycling, the high heat destroys the asbestos fibers, making them non-hazardous. There is continuous research going on as to the best process for recycling asbestos. Still, it is important to help lower the costs of disposal as well as the dangers associated with improper disposal. 

If you believe improper care has been taken with asbestos disposal, call the EPA at 1-800-368-5888 or The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) at 1-800-321-6742.

The National Emission Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants (NESHAP)

The National Emission Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants (NESHAP) specify work practices to be followed during asbestos removal during demolitions and renovations. In fact, part of these standards and regulations include the requirement of building owners to notify the appropriate state agency before even beginning demolition and renovations of buildings that could contain a certain threshold amount of asbestos.

NESHAP also regulates and enforces standards for hazardous air pollutants. Manufacturing and fabricating operations cannot emit visible emissions into the outside air. If they do, they must follow certain air cleaning requirements. This group also regulates the removal of waste that contains asbestos.

The Asbestos Hazard Emergency Response Act (AHERA)’s Model Accreditation Plan (MAP)

The Asbestos Hazard Emergency Response Act (AHERA) requires any workers that will be working within a building that contains asbestos materials to be accredited under a training program at least as stringent as the EPA Model Accreditation Plan (MAP). Once they are familiar with the dangers of asbestos, they are sure to follow strict safety guidelines. 

The United States Environmental Protection Agency works hard to educate building owners about making and maintaining a program to manage asbestos-containing materials in their buildings. This plan includes training, cleaning, and other work practices to ensure safety. Please note that school buildings are different from other public buildings and have their own regulations and requirements for managing asbestos under the Asbestos Hazard Emergency Response Act (AHERA).

What Happens When Asbestos Is Mishandled?

If potential asbestos risks are ignored, and then materials containing asbestos are mishandled, all those entering the building can be exposed to serious health problems. Asbestos fibers are incredibly hazardous to your health and have been linked to cancers and other potentially fatal diseases. 

You may think that it will only take a couple of hours to remove a damaged area of old textured ceiling material. The truth is if the material is damaged, asbestos fibers are easily made airborne, exposing you to very dangerous toxins. Even a couple of hours of exposure can destroy your health for the rest of your life. Asbestos material has been labeled the “silent killer” for good reason. It has been rated the number one cause of work-related deaths not just across the country but throughout the world. Why take the risk with material this unsafe? It’s not worth cutting corners to save a little time or money during your New Jersey demolition project. Your health and the health of your loved ones are too important to risk.

How to Know If Your Demolition Project Requires Asbestos Removal

Depending on the situation, the law may require you to remove asbestos found during your demolition preparations. If the building you’re demolishing is older, you will most likely need an inspection before proceeding. If the material is found, you must have those areas cleaned or removed by a professional before moving forward. A good rule of thumb – always have areas in question tested before disturbing them during demolition or even simple renovations.

Mikula Contracting Cares About the Safety of Your Project

Handling the abatement of asbestos is a serious and important factor in your contracting project. While Mikula Contracting does not remove asbestos, we happily work with your asbestos specialists and handle your demolition and excavation needs post-abatement. Mikula Contracting follows the proper guidelines and regulations for the work we complete and will coordinate with your asbestos specialist to schedule our work accordingly once they’ve completed their work removing any asbestos from your New Jersey-based demolition project. No amount of exposure is safe, even just for a few minutes. Don’t take any chances with your health or the health of those you love. Asbestos is extremely dangerous and should be left to professionals. 

Contact Mikula Contracting for any questions regarding post-abatement excavation and demolition. We value the safety of our clients, job sites, and employees, and ensure the work we complete is done according to regulations. Reach out today.

by Dennis Mikula Jr.

Navigating the Process of Demolition in New Jersey

When it comes to the construction process, navigating it from beginning to end in a safe and organized way is key. Demolition is where it all begins. You must make sure it’s done right, or you’ll pay for it later.

Do you know what to expect during these first steps of your construction project? Do you know the regulations and permits that are required? Whether you want to do it all on your own or know that you’ll probably need a contractor to handle things, you should be aware of the entire process (including the excavation process in New Jersey), the potential problems, associated costs, and more. Let’s make sure you know all the details before you get started.

Understanding New Jersey's Demolition Regulations and Permits

Acquiring the necessary permits for your demolition project or excavation work is vital to the construction and building process. Abiding by the regulations set by the state, county, and city is also a must. But keeping track of all these regulations and required permits can seem impossible for the average person. This is one of the examples of why you shouldn’t go it alone. 

Keeping track of all the permits and regulations for each part of the demolition and excavation process is one reason hiring a contractor will pay off quickly. The contractors at Mikula Contracting will take care of it all, alleviating all of your worries.

Hiring a Demolition Contractor: Tips and Considerations

When you’re choosing a demolition contractor, be sure to consider the skills and experience of your potential hire. Here are a few other considerations and tips for choosing the right contractor for your project.

• Check out your potential contractor’s reputation. Ask around for others that have used them in the past to find out more details. You can also look up the company you’re interested in hiring to read the reviews that have been posted for them.
• Ask for references and examine the work done for yourself to ensure it’s top quality.
• Ask about the tools and equipment that will be used for your project. Using the proper equipment is key to completing the job correctly. 
• Find out what safety procedures the company abides by.
• Be sure your contractor is licensed and insured – no matter what!

Safety Precautions During the Demolition Process

A demolition crew must take appropriate safety precautions while they work. If not, accidents can happen quickly.

Some of the most important safety precautions your contractor and demolition crew can take include:

• Wearing personal protection equipment, including gloves, steel-toe boots, reflective vests, and more
• Ensuring that all workers are properly trained and qualified to do their job before stepping foot on the job site
• Shutting off utilities before working
• Staying out of unsafe areas that present structural hazards
• Maintaining a clean job site to protect against injuries
• ALWAYS watching and preparing for asbestos. Working with professionals that will take the right steps to handle the situation per the necessary guidelines and requirements.

After demolition and clean-up, excavation can begin. Excavation isn’t just the process of moving dirt from one place to another, especially for large structures. There is much more involved, including:

• Setting corner benchmarks
• Surveying for ground and top levels
• Excavation 
• Backfilling to cut off level
• Construction of dewatering wells and interconnecting trenches
• Marking for the building/home
• Construct bunds to improve stability or support pipelines on the excavation site

Practice due diligence in finding an excavation contractor to complete your project safely and on time. 

Navigating Environmental Concerns and Demolition Waste Disposal

Construction and demolition projects naturally bring about a lot of waste. It doesn’t matter whether you’re building a new building or home or tearing down old ones – large amounts of waste are inevitable. This is why taking care of and disposing of that waste correctly is important. Before hiring your contractor, ask how and when building material waste will be removed. You don’t want to be caught doing it on your own or find out that there isn’t already a plan in place.

Some construction and demolition waste may consist of:

• Concrete
• Wood
• Metal
• Glass
• Plastic
• Asphalt
• Drywall 
• Brick
• Plumbing materials – pipes, sinks, toilets
• Landscaping material – trees, rock, dirt, etc.

So, what can you do to reduce the amount of waste that ends up in a landfill? Doing your part to reduce waste can include reusing materials, recycling products, and going out of your way to rebuy these types of materials when you can– taking these small steps can make a  difference. It all adds up! Talk with your contractor about what they do to help reduce waste at the job site.

Dealing with Unexpected Issues During the Demolition Process

Mikula Contracting is the company you need to complete your demolition and excavation process in New Jersey the right way. You don’t want to be the one dealing with demolition and excavation site issues on your own. These projects require a lot of know-how, experience, and attention to detail.

A large excavation and demolition project requires a contractor that is efficient, practices safety always, possesses the needed tools and equipment, has a plan for responsible waste management, and delivers quality work. Mikula Contracting checks all the boxes and more. Call our team today to learn more about how we can help in your next project.

by Dennis Mikula Jr.

The Advantages of Working with a Family-Owned Business as Your Demolition Contractor

When the time comes to choose a demolition contractor, you want to be sure you do your research. The last thing you need is to hire a team that does not show up as planned and delays the project. Or worse, a team that does not practice safety on the job and threatens the safety of your employees or family. 

When considering how to choose a demolition contractor, think of a family-owned business like Mikula Contracting. We have years of experience in the industry and know how to conduct professional demolition safely, efficiently, and affordably. 

Personalized Service and Care

Each professional demolition contractor has its own set of standards. Our Mikula Contracting team builds personal relationships with each client on our demolition projects. You can be as involved in the project as you want. Discuss your vision for the demolition project during the planning stages. Visit the site when you see fit, knowing we will welcome you each time. 

When considering hiring a demolition contractor, choose a company that invites you in as part of the family, sharing past projects and discussing your goals. We are always available to contract ongoing projects with our clients. Often, once people experience our integrity and hard work, they come back to hire us for more projects. 

High Level of Commitment

Think of all the traits you want to consider when choosing the right demolition company for residential or commercial demolitions. At the top of the list is a high level of commitment to your project, no matter how big or small.

You should never feel like you are a low priority for a company. Pay attention to how quickly the company responds to your inquiries. Will they see your project through to the end with unwavering commitment? If the answer is yes, it’s likely that they’re the right demolition contractor. 

From the President of Mikula Contracting

"When working with a family-owned business like Mikula, one of the first things you’ll notice is the commitment level of the team members. Our company has minimal turnover due to our family-based culture which contributes to the overall success of our company. It is also very common to see the outstanding work ethic in each one of our family business employees. As a result, high-quality service comes from our employees taking pride in their work as they tend to treat each project as if it is their own." - Dennis Mikula, Jr., President

You’re More Than Just a Project Number

When working with a family-owned business, clients are often treated as if they are part of the family and not just a number in the system. This is important as you tend to work with the same team members on multiple projects which have many moving parts and it's much more efficient to work with the same people over an extended period of time.

At Mikula Contracting, we learn about your past, present, and future needs and refer to your project using your name and address. To us, you are never just a project number. Come and work with our team as the right choice of a demolition contractor you can trust.

High-Quality Service and Work

How do you know you will receive high-quality demolition work at affordable pricing? Learning how to choose a demolition contractor does not include choosing the cheapest services. You may run into a company that lies about experience and safety procedures just to get the contract. They are likely to have the lowest prices.

Use your resources as you research customer reviews, talk to other homeowners or businesses for referrals, and interview the contractors. Be sure they can show you a comprehensive portfolio and answer tough questions. 

When the team starts the job, if they stick to the plan and notify you immediately of any roadblocks, you will know if you have chosen the right demolition contractor. High-quality service can be affordable if you conduct your due diligence in researching the company’s legitimacy.  

Greater Stability

Other questions you may ask when conducting how to choose a demolition contractor are: 

• Do they have insurance? 
• Will they clean up the debris? 
• Do they recycle or reuse? 
• What equipment do they use and is it in good condition? 
• What is their safety record? 

Mikula Contracting will have reliable answers to these questions and more. When you choose a family-owned company with experience like ours, you can rely on our expertise when you need it the most. For example, a demolition project may fall apart with the discovery of asbestos. Mikula Contracting has the resources and plan of action to safely remove asbestos and continue with the project. 

In addition, we always leave a project looking better than the way we found it. You will never have to worry about a demolition contractor that abandons the project before the cleanup is complete when you work with us. You are invited to the job site to inspect our equipment and watch our procedures in action.

Discover stability in your trusted demolition contractor when you hire Mikula Contracting for the job. You will not regret getting to know our contractors and expanding on the projects we can complete together. 

Mikula Contracting Is Here to Help

You never have to worry about how to choose a demolition contractor once you find Mikula Contracting. Our team will always take care of your demolition needs without a worry on your mind. Contact our office for a consultation regarding your specific project. 

by Dennis Mikula Jr.

Factors to Consider During Your Next Demolition Project

Many factors can lead you toward the decision to seek demolition services. For example, a building could be deemed corrupt from a faulty foundation, hazardous materials, or infestation of animals. 

While some building materials are worth salvaging, it may be time to take down the whole building. Take note that building demolition is not on the standard list of DIY projects. Instead, a demolition contractor in New Jersey can take on your project and walk you through their process to ensure it’s done right. Below we outline some of the main factors to consider during your next demolition project. 

Planning Permissions and Permits

The first thing that needs to be done for many construction projects is obtaining the proper permits to get the job done. Meet with your demolition contractor to find out if you have permission to level the building, and what permits are required. 

While you wait for the permit approval, you can start to plan. For example, which demolition methods make sense for your building demolition? 

• Excavator: The use of machinery pulls apart the building until it collapses. 
• Wrecking Ball: A giant ball is used to crash into the building until you’re left with a pile of rubble. 
• Deconstruction: This careful demolition includes breaking down each piece and saving the flooring, appliances, doors, and windows for reuse. At Mikula Contracting, we can work with other companies to demolish the structure once you’ve deconstructed it in order to save the things you wanted. 

Meet with a New Jersey demolition contractor, such as Mikula Contracting, to decide on the best demolition method for your project. It’s also important to consider the cleanup process before choosing a demolition method. For example, a wrecking ball would yield much more cleanup than deconstruction. 

Budget and Timeline

Before the demolition projects begin, you can plan a timeline and budget for the project. Your demolition contractor will better estimate your budget based on the building size and method of demolition. 

Your demolition contractor should be able to complete your building demolition within a week of obtaining the permits. So instead of paying for an unsafe facility that is costing you money without making you money, take action by starting the demolition process. Then you can get started on a new build or sell the land for profit. 

Choosing the Right Demolition Contractor

Speak with the demolition company about their experience. Do they have experience in commercial and residential demolition? Ask them to describe their experience working with heavy machinery and the demolition equipment they plan to use. 

Learn about the safety protocols your demolition contractor follows. Are they strict in training their employees and protecting community members during demolition? Ask to see their safety guidelines to learn if they are as experienced as you would like. 

Performing Necessary Preparations

A demolition professional will be well-versed in the safety practices and preparation needs before the destruction. Look for red flags like skirting around questions or not providing signage for the time and date of demolition to post on the building. Here are some things you can ask about: 

• Asbestos removal
• Closing down the building
• Proper signage and warnings about demolition day
• Waste removal
• Recycling programs
• Safety protocols
• Safety equipment
• Pedestrian and passerby safety

When your demolition contractor prepares for the demolition, they should ensure the safety of all workers and surrounding members of the community. 

Also, search for a company that responsibly disposes of materials inside the building that can be used again. Demolition does not have to be a wasteful process when hiring the right  demolition contractor. 

Disposal of Hazardous Materials

A big part of the demolition process includes the removal of hazardous materials before the demolition contractor starts the project. Leveling a building without the removal of dangerous materials can result in danger to the community. Hazardous materials include: 

• Lead paint
• Asbestos
• Harsh chemicals
• Gas utilities
• Paint cans
• Oil
• Mold

A wrecking ball or implosion can cause dust and demolition debris to spread beyond the building premises. However, a trusted demolition contractor will know that a dumpster rental alone will not cut it when it comes to hazardous materials. This is why it’s important to also work with a company that specializes in the specific issue that needs to be addressed. For example, asbestos removal adds an extra step to the project to ensure that the asbestos is entirely removed before the building is leveled. At Mikula Contracting, we work closely with companies that can handle the disposal of hazardous materials that may come from your demolition project. 

Demolishing a building with asbestos spreads the substance out into the surrounding community and airways. It is against the law and very dangerous. Make sure your demolition contractor is aware of the risks for your demolition project and knows how to handle them appropriately.

Our Experienced New Jersey Demolition Contractors Are Here to Help

You know the team to hire for your demolition work. At Mikula Contracting, you can count on the highest expertise to walk you through your building demolition. As the property owner, you are responsible for hiring a demolition contractor in New Jersey dedicated to safety.

Our team is experienced in working with New Jersey businesses and homeowners to take on demolition projects that are beyond DIY situations. Let us help you take care of your building demolition, so you can focus on your next project. Contact us today to get started! 

by Dennis Mikula Jr.

Questions to Ask Before Hiring a Demolition Contractor

Demolition is often a necessary step before a construction or renovation project. As you prepare to start, it’s critical to ensure that you are working with an experienced contractor that you can trust. Hiring a demolition contractor in New Jersey means that you are bringing a team of experts on-site and possibly reducing the risk of unnecessary collateral damage.

At Mikula Contracting, our demolition team has years of experience in the industry. We understand the best practices to get the job done right and ensure quality results every step of the way. Whether you need residential services or are preparing for a big commercial project, we can help. Call today to learn more about our available services.

Here are a few of the most important questions you should ask when comparing available contractors and hiring a local demolition company.

What Is the Estimated Timeline for the Project?

Demolition is often one of the first stages of the construction project. So, if there are delays with demolition, it will have a domino effect on the rest of the project.

Before you sign on the dotted line, ensure that you have a clear timeline in place with the contractor. Not only do you need to know when they will begin demolition, but it’s also important to discuss the anticipated completion time. 

You need efficient service when working with a demolition contractor in New Jersey because everything else in the project is riding on the timeline and quality of the demolition services.

How Much Will the Demolition Cost?

Next, make sure that you have a written estimate in hand from your demolition contractor. New Jersey homeowners and business owners may find that some demolition crews are willing to work with handshake agreements. But the problem is that the costs might go up when the contractor starts adding on unexpected fees and expenses, which becomes difficult to dispute when you’re working without an itemized contract.

A good demolition contractor will break down the proposal so you can see specific pricing for both construction and demolition. It’s critical that you have clarity in pricing before agreeing to move forward with the project.

Is Cleanup Included in the Project?

Part of the cost conversation should include specific details within the scope of work. For example, ask your demolition contractor if they follow through with cleanup when the demolition project is complete.

Full-service demolition is more than tearing down a structure. As the demolition is occurring, a lot of waste and recyclable materials need to be moved off-site. Make sure that the contractor includes the cost of cleanup in their pricing, with services to remove all of these unwanted materials off the site safely and efficiently. The project isn’t finished until the site has been cleaned in full.

Will I Need a Permit?

Depending on the type of construction and demolition that is being completed, it’s possible that you might need a permit before the work commences. It can be complicated to know the local requirements. The simplest solution is to talk to your demolition contractor and lean on their experience. 

Most contractors will handle the permit process and offer advice to ensure everything stays within local regulations. You can also take it one step further to ask if the company is bonded and insured. All of these details might seem small, but they make a difference in the professionalism of the demolition contractor that you choose to hire.

Do You Have Experience with Demo Projects Like This One?

When you are hiring a demolition contractor, it brings peace of mind to know that the contractor has worked on other similar projects. A mistake during demolition can be expensive, and a lot of liability is involved. Hiring an experienced team helps to reduce the risk and decrease the likelihood of something going wrong.

Talk to your New Jersey demolition contractor about how many years they have worked in the industry. Ask for information about crew training and ongoing support. Also, ask the contractor to show examples of other similar projects they have completed in the past.

Will There Be Environmental Considerations?

Cost factors and timelines can definitely change when environmental considerations need to be addressed. If the demolition involves hazardous conditions, such as asbestos or contaminated soil, our team must take precautionary measures to protect everyone involved.

Additionally, safety is critical to avoid contamination during the disposal stage of the project. Therefore, we take care to ensure safety and cleanliness every step of the way. If environmental considerations are involved, we will maintain open communication with you about the steps that will be followed.

Work With a Trusted New Jersey Demolition Contractor Today

You deserve quality results, which is why it makes sense to hire the leading demolition contractor in the area. Reach out at your convenience to schedule a consultation with our team to discuss your residential or commercial project. Contact Mikula Contracting today to learn more!

by Dennis Mikula Jr.