Enthusiastic homeowners often grab a sledgehammer for demolition, only to accidentally hit plumbing, wiring, or ductwork. This leads to expensive repairs and project delays.
The Fix:
If a pipe is hit, the water supply should be shut off immediately, and repairs made by a plumber. Damaged wires require an electrician for safe rewiring. For small drywall repairs, patch kits can restore surfaces once systems are fixed.
Prevention:
Using a stud finder with wire and pipe detection prevents most accidents. Consulting blueprints or having a professional inspection before demolition is the safest option. Controlled demolition with proper tools is always better than reckless swinging.
In conclusion, demolition fails are costly but avoidable. A little patience saves money and stress.