An analysis of cost and duration for deconstruction and demolition of residential buildings in Massachusetts

Deconstruction is an effective means for reducing construction demolition (C&D) debris at a time of diminishing landfill capacities and increased environmental awareness. This paper compares the cost of residential building deconstruction with the cost of demolition in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. The comparative cost analysis is developed by systematically analyzing two separate residential deconstruction projects previously reported in other studies and augmenting with up-to-date cost data for Massachusetts. The study shows that under current conditions in Massachusetts, deconstruction costs could be 17–25% higher than demolition costs. The analysis further identifies and ranks the parameters affecting these costs. These parameters, in the order of their impact on costs are: labor cost (either productivity or hourly rate), disposal cost (tipping fee and transportation), and resale value of deconstructed materials. A sensitivity analysis is used to identify the break-even points for these parameters such that deconstruction becomes economically competitive with demolition. This study demonstrates an approach for planners of waste management programs to evaluate and develop strategies for promoting C&D waste reduction.