The Cost of Demolishing Garage

In the United States, garage demolition costs around $2 to $6 per square foot. However, there are a couple of factors that will influence the total cost. These factors include whether the garage is freestanding or not, materials used to build the garage, whether or not you need excavation SF, and much more.

Before you proceed with your garage demolition project, here are several things you should know that might affect the overall cost.

The Main Aspects Affecting the Cost of Garage Demolition

A garage demolition project can cost around $2 to $6 per square foot on average. However, the price can depend a lot on various factors.

Permits

Typically, a local permit is required for any type of demolition project. This includes garage demolition. Actual permit costs and requirements differ from city to city. However, you need to include this to the total cost. It can be an indication that they are not properly licensed to do the job if the contractor isn’t willing to obtain permits for you.

Geographic Location

Your garage’s accessibility will also play a part in the overall cost. The city you are located in is also a factor to consider. For instance, major cities have higher disposal fees and labor costs. Thus, if you live in an urban area, you should expect to pay more.

Foundation

If your garage sits on a concrete slab that has to be torn down as well, you should expect to pay more for the project. Depending on the thickness and size of the slab, this can cost around $600 to $1,400.

Complexity

A lot of garages have plumbing and electrical parts to them. This can impact the cost of demolition too.

Hazardous Materials

Before you can start the demolition project, you will have to get rid of it if your garage contains dangerous materials, such as lead paint or asbestos. Depending on the size of the garage and the amount of lead paint or asbestos, this can cost around $1,400 to $4,500.

Material

Usually, the most expensive garages to tear down are brick garages. The reason for this is that it is extremely heavy. Typically, the most affordable to demolish are wood-frame garages. In addition to that, you might be able to recover a couple of the costs of the project if the materials are reusable or recycle. Cement, wood in decent shape, cinder blocks, and much more are all useful.

If the contractor is doing the job, salvaging materials can improve the cost of the project. However, you might be able to do some of the salvaging yourself. This can save you money.

Size

The cost of demolishing a garage is greatly affected by your garage’s size. You will have to spend more money if your garage has a lot of stalls.

Detached or Attached

Attached garages cost more to tear down compared to detached garages. The reason for this is that more goes into the overall job. This includes fixing the remaining structure, physical demolition, planning, and much more.