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Building Homes or Extensions/Recycling CMU from non-loadbearing walls

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Expert: - 11/5/2008


Question
I need to remove several walls that are NOT load bearing from a small building. Wood roof trusses span 24 feet and support the entire roof system. Also, I would like to recycle these CMUs. What are the appropriate method[s] and tools to use to maximize the largest number of whole units saved?


Answer
Troy,  to take down a cement block wall, start at the top.  I've found that bumping the block with the handle of a small sledge hammer will pop them loose with very little damage.  If the wall has been slushed, it will come down in small pieces with little or no salvage.  We took down an internal wall recently that I expected to do this way, it was slushed with rebar at 4 foot centers both vertical and horizontal.  I didn't bid it high enough.

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Dan Griffin

Expertise

I can answer almost all questions related to the total construction process. My expertise is in commercial construction, though I can field most any residential question. I have hands on experience in concrete, heavy equipment, masonry, all phases of carpentry, interior finishes, and I am fairly strong in mechanical and electrical.

Experience

I have over 20 years experience as a commercial carpenter and commercial construction superintendent. I have another 20 years experience in facility management for a major school district.

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My favorite hobby for he past 12 years has been singing bass in a The OkChorale men's barbershop chorus and the Mature Moments quartet.

Education/Credentials
I hold a Bachelor's degree in English and Math. I have completed many continuing education hours in the building trades. I hold a Master Carpenter card from the AGC, Associated General Contractors.

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