Strip foundation is the most popular type of base for private houses in Ukraine. Over time, there may be a need to dismantle it: during demolition of an old building, reconstruction, or preparation of the site for new construction. Strip foundation demolition is a complex technical process that requires special skills and equipment.
Features of a strip foundation
A strip foundation is a continuous concrete (or reinforced concrete) band under all load-bearing walls of a house. The depth depends on the soil type and the load on the structure. Steel reinforcement and significant size make manual dismantling of a strip foundation difficult.
Why is strip foundation demolition a unique task?
The main difficulty is the significant weight of the concrete, dense reinforcement, deep location, and being underground. Attempts to perform the demolition on your own can be dangerous for both people and neighboring buildings. Special knowledge, equipment, and strict adherence to safety rules are required.
Methods of strip foundation demolition
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Mechanical demolition with an excavator — the most common and effective method.
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Hydraulic or pneumatic breaker — for destroying especially strong concrete.
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Concrete cutting — used for partial demolition or in hard-to-reach places.
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Manual demolition — used very rarely, usually for small volumes or lightweight structures.
Stages of strip foundation demolition
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Assessment of the scope of work and foundation condition
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Site preparation, ensuring access for equipment
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Cleaning up the area after the work is finished
Cost calculation for strip foundation demolition
The price depends on the size of the foundation, depth, accessibility, soil type, and the amount of debris to be removed.
Estimated cost of strip foundation demolition in Kyiv and the region — from 1500 UAH/m³ of concrete.
The exact price is determined after our specialist inspects the site.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a permit to demolish a foundation?
In most cases, a separate permit for strip foundation demolition is not required if the work is carried out on private land and does not affect utilities or neighboring buildings. However, if the construction site is within the city or requires blocking a road/sidewalk, approval from local authorities may be needed. We recommend checking this with your local municipality.
How long does strip foundation demolition take?
The duration depends on the size of the foundation, the amount of reinforced concrete, the depth, and equipment access. On average, strip foundation demolition for a private house takes from 1 to 5 days. For large volumes or complex conditions, the work may take longer.
How is construction debris removed?
After strip foundation demolition, concrete remnants, rebar, and other construction debris are loaded into special containers or dump trucks and transported to licensed disposal sites. The client can choose a turnkey service with complete debris removal or arrange for partial removal.
Will there be debris left on the site after demolition?
Professional companies carry out full removal of debris from the site and leave the area clean, ready for new construction or landscaping. If demolition is done independently or “cheaply”, fragments often remain that will have to be cleaned up additionally.
Is it possible to demolish a foundation in winter?
Yes, strip foundation demolition is possible in winter if there is no severe frost and the site is accessible for equipment. The main difficulty in winter is frozen soil, which makes excavation and moving equipment more difficult. In case of severe frost, it is recommended to plan demolition for a warmer season.
Expert advice
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Hire only professionals for foundation demolition — it is safer and faster.
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Do not try to save on debris removal — the volume can be very large!
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Plan new construction in advance, before starting demolition.
Case study
Our team dismantled a strip foundation under an old private house in Bucha in 4 days, with complete debris removal.
Conclusion
Strip foundation demolition is a responsible task that should be entrusted to experienced professionals.
Order a consultation or preliminary cost estimate today!