Demolition

Demolition is the process of safely tearing down structures, whether you're removing a single wall to open up your living space or clearing an entire room for a fresh start. From interior gutting to deck removal and shed teardowns, these projects require proper planning and disposal. Angi helps you find local pros who can handle your demolition needs and guides you through every step.

Related to Demolition

Demolition Articles and Advice
Haley Nothstein  •  Jul 10, 2026
How Much Does It Cost to Demo a Bathroom? [2026 Data]
The cost to demo a bathroom depends on its size, complexity, extent of the demo, and whether you DIY or not. This guide will help you budget effectively.
Paige Bennett  •  Jul 9, 2026
How to Remove Bathroom Tile in 8 Steps
Learn how to remove bathroom tile with this step-by-step guide so that you can finally finish the bathroom reno of your dreams.
Lyle Hendriks  •  Jul 9, 2026
How Much Does Fence Removal Cost? [2026 Data]
Fence removal costs are highly variable, depending mainly on the size and type of fence. Read on and learn why labor will always be your biggest spend.
Lyle Hendriks  •  Jul 9, 2026
How Much Does It Cost to Demo a Kitchen? [2026 Data]
The cost to demo a kitchen depends on its size, construction complexity, materials, and whether you DIY the job or not. This guide will help you budget better.
Melissa Graham  •  Jul 9, 2026
How Much Does It Cost to Remove a Fireplace? [2026 Data]
The average cost to remove a fireplace is $4,500, but your overall cost will depend on the type of fireplace, its condition, and other factors.
Veronica Sparks  •  Jul 9, 2026
What Is Demolition Work? The Not-So-Subtle Art of Tearing It All Down
Learn what demolition work is, when it's needed, the types, and the cost factors. Plus, discover why hiring a pro for demolition is the safest option.
Kristin Luna  •  Jul 9, 2026
Is DIY Demolition Smart When Remodeling?
DIY demolition is one way to save money before remodeling. But is it worth it in the long run? We answer all your DIY demo questions here.
Scott Dylan Westerlund  •  Jul 8, 2026
How Much Does Asphalt Removal Cost? [2026 Data]
If you need to remove old asphalt before putting down a new driveway, the cost will vary based on the size of the driveway you're removing, the method used to remove asphalt, and whether you hire a pro or try DIY asphalt removal.
Find Demolition Contractors near you
Share your project details and we’ll match you with up to 3 available pros near you.
Common Demolition Questions

Yes, you should always wet concrete before jackhammering to avoid harmful dust from becoming airborne. According to the U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration, they recommend a wet-cut method that involves continuous spraying of the concrete where the jackhammer bit hits. Use a jackhammer with a built-in sprayer attachment, or have a work partner spray the area with a garden hose and spray nozzle.

While general contractors sometimes handle demolition, you can also look specifically for local demolition contractors. Demolition experts need to understand structural integrity, the equipment needed for safe demolition, and the permits required for demolition.

Gutting a home down to the studs means stripping away drywall, insulation, and fixtures until you have nothing left other than your unfinished floors and beams.

“One scenario that requires gutting is a house is when it’s subject to a flood,” says Tschudi. “In that case, gutting and mold treatment is necessary. Be sure that your contractors are wearing the proper OSHA-approved protection, or they could get seriously injured.”

If your home has good bones, you can save a lot of money by doing a partial demolition that opens up walls or removes a rotting addition. A full demolition is typically only done when a house is a "tear down" property with less value than the land underneath it.

The average cost to remove a fireplace is $7,000 but can range from $4,000 to $10,000. Labor costs account for the majority of this price, which can range between $500 and $2,000. In addition, permits to remove a fireplace are typically needed, and these can cost anywhere from $100 to $1,000, depending on your location and city requirements. If you’re removing your fireplace due to issues like asbestos or damage, you will likely need to pay to rectify these problems along with the fireplace removal cost.