June, 5 2013
| Misconception | Fact | |
| 1 | Demolition contractors primarily implode, or “blow up” buildings. | Implosions account for less than 1 percent of all demolition work. |
| 2 | Demolition contractors destroy many structures that should be saved. | Demolition contractors are instrumental in achieving the goals of preservationists. |
| 3 | Demolition contractors don’t participate in the nation’s recycling effort. | The demolition industry was salvaging building elements and materials for reuse long before it was the “ecological thing to do.” |
| 4 | Demolition contractors unnecessarily overcrowd landfills with debris. | The industry is reducing its use of landfills in favor of recycling. |
| 5 | Demolition is an unsophisticated business. | A safe and successful demolition project requires a working knowledge of both construction and the law. |
| 6 | The methods of demolition never change. | Demolition practices today are not only quicker but safer and more cost-effective. |
| 7 | One demolition contractor is basically the same as the next. | Don’t tell that to the owner who has had the misfortune of dealing with an inexperienced contractor. |
| 8 | Demolition is dangerous business. | In the hands of professionals, the danger is controlled. |
| 9 | Demolition is expensive. | Commercial demolition work generally costs less than 2 percent of the replacement cost of the building. |
| 10 | Once a demolition project is completed, the owner’s worries are over. | A project owner cannot “contract away” his responsibility or liability. |
