Demolition is often the first real step toward restoring a property. Whether it's soaked drywall, ruined flooring, or saturated insulation, these materials must be carefully removed to prevent mold growth and stop further structural damage. But demolition isn’t about swinging a sledgehammer and hoping for the best—it’s about precision, protection, and the right tools for the job.

In this weekly how-to, powered by KnowHow, we’ll walk you through the step-by-step process for assessing water-damaged areas, using demolition tools correctly, and safely removing affected materials—so your team can move efficiently into drying and restoration.

Step 1: Assess the Water-Damaged Area

Before you start hauling out tools or tearing into walls, you need to understand what you’re working with. A detailed assessment will guide your demolition plan, help you choose the right equipment, and prevent unnecessary damage to unaffected areas.

• Look for visible water stains, warping, and signs of mold or moisture penetration.
• Check structural integrity—especially of ceilings and floors—before proceeding.
• Identify what materials are affected (e.g., drywall, carpet, insulation) and what needs to go.

 

Step 2: Gather the Necessary Demolition Tools

Having the right tools ready can make or break your workflow—literally. Once you know what you're removing, gather all the necessary tools for a clean and controlled demo.

Here’s what to bring on a typical mitigation job:

• Saws: Reciprocating, circular, or oscillating saws for cutting drywall, flooring, or framing. 
• Drills: Corded or cordless, used for removing fixtures, fasteners, or creating access holes. 
• Hammers: From claw hammers to rubber mallets for pulling nails or light demo work. 
• Pry Bars: Ideal for baseboards, subfloor panels, or prying materials apart cleanly. 
• Utility Knives: Great for slicing through carpet, vapor barriers, and vinyl sheeting. 
• Plastic Sheeting & Containment Supplies: To protect unaffected areas and contain dust. 
• Heavy-Duty Trash Bags (3 mil or stronger): For safe debris collection. 
• PPE: Gloves, eye protection, N95 masks, and steel-toe boots are non-negotiable. 
• Shop Vac: Essential for clean-as-you-go protocols and dust control. 
• Containment Poles (Zip Poles): To hold up plastic sheeting for sectioned-off demo zones.
   

Double-check that everything is in good working order before you begin.

Step 3: Contain the Area

Demolition doesn’t just create debris—it stirs up dust, contaminants, and airborne particles that can easily travel beyond the work zone. Containment keeps the mess controlled and protects the rest of the home or building.

• Hang plastic sheeting using containment poles or painter’s tape to block off the work area. 
• Seal all doors, vents, and pathways to keep dust and debris confined. 
• Set up an air scrubber inside the containment zone to filter airborne particles and reduce odor.

Step 4: Begin the Demolition Process

This is where the real work begins—but it doesn’t mean chaos. Approach demolition with care, especially in residential or occupied commercial spaces, where the goal is to remove only what’s necessary and do it cleanly.

• Remove drywall, insulation, trim, or flooring that has been compromised by water. 
• Cut drywall cleanly rather than smashing it—never use a sledgehammer indoors. 
• Watch out for hidden hazards like live wires or plumbing behind walls and floors.
   

Take your time and work systematically to avoid further damage or safety issues.

Step 5: Dispose of Debris Properly

A good demo job includes a clean exit. Don’t let debris pile up or scatter throughout the job site—contain it as you go and dispose of it according to local regulations.

• Use heavy-duty 3 mil trash bags to bag debris immediately. 
• Seal bags tightly and avoid overfilling to prevent rips or leakage. 
• Transport bags to an appropriate disposal site or dumpster, following local guidelines.
   

Keeping the job site clean improves safety and helps keep the project on schedule.

Demolition Done Right—Powered by KnowHow

Demolition after water damage is more than just tearing things out—it’s about doing it cleanly, safely, and strategically to set the stage for restoration. But when done carelessly, it creates more problems than it solves.

KnowHow makes it easy to get it right. With a library of 1000+ expert-built SOP templates, instant on-the-job access to step-by-step instructions, and tools to standardize training across your entire team, KnowHow helps you take the guesswork out of every job. Whether you’re onboarding a new tech or refreshing a seasoned crew, your SOPs and company how-to are just a tap away.

Want to standardize your demolition process and train your team with confidence? Download this free Demolition Tools for Water Mitigation template and put KnowHow to work for you.