Barn Demolition: Easy and Safe Step to Follow

Tearing down an old barn isn’t something you decide on lightly. Perhaps it’s falling apart, taking up space, or no longer safe to use.

You’re probably wondering what the process looks like, or if you can even do it yourself.

That’s where this guide on barn demolition comes in. I’ll walk you through everything from safety checks and permits to cleanup and what to do after it’s gone.

You’ll learn what tools you need, what costs to expect, and how to make the most of the wood if it’s salvageable. Ready to find out the most innovative way to take your barn down? Let’s get into it.

Is Barn Demolition Right for You?

Before you grab a hammer or hire someone, ask yourself why you want the barn gone. Is it falling apart? Unsafe for animals or kids? Perhaps you would like to use the land for something else.

Just know that some barns are worth restoring. If it’s structurally sound and you like the look, fixing it up could be a more cost-effective option.

However, if the barn poses a safety risk, is infested with pests, or is in a state of decay, demolition is likely the best course of action.

You’ll also need to check local rules; some places require permits or have restrictions.

Step-by-Step Barn Demolition Process

Step 1: Evaluate the Barn’s Condition and Plan for Demolition

Before you begin, thoroughly inspect the barn to assess its structural integrity. Look for leaks, rotting beams, and unstable walls. If the roof is collapsing and the floor is cracked, it’s clear that repairs would be more costly than demolition.

Once you’ve decided to proceed with demolition, make sure you’ve obtained any necessary permits from local authorities.

Clear the surrounding area of vehicles, animals, or equipment that may be in the way, and check for utility lines, such as electricity and water, to ensure they’re safely shut off.

Step 2: Remove Roofing, Siding, and Gather Equipment

Start by stripping the barn’s roof and siding. Carefully remove the panels, starting from the top, and set aside any materials, such as metal, for recycling.

As you remove the roofing and siding, sort them for later processing to minimize waste. Next, bring in the heavy equipment.

An excavator will be key for tearing down the barn’s structure. Ensure the ground is stable enough for the machine and equip it with the right attachments, such as a grapple or bucket, to make the demolition process smoother.

Step 3: Begin Demolition and Manage Debris

With the excavator in place, it’s time to tear down the barn’s walls and remaining structures. Use the excavator’s powerful arm to push over walls and break down supports.

As large chunks of debris fall, scoop them up and place them into a hole you’ve dug for disposal. Keep a close eye on safety, ensuring you follow proper procedures to prevent accidents.

Be mindful of weather conditions as well, as strong winds may prevent burning debris. Instead, focus on grinding down concrete and hauling away recyclable materials.

Step 4: Handle Concrete, Metal, and Weather Conditions

Once the barn is down, separate materials like concrete and metal for recycling. Break up any concrete slabs and add them to the hole.

Sort out the scrap metal, such as nails, beams, and siding, for recycling purposes.

Since burning debris may not be safe in windy conditions, focus on grinding down concrete and hauling away recyclable materials.

It’s crucial to keep the site as clean as possible to minimize any weather-related hazards.

Step 5: Fill the Hole and Final Cleanup

As the barn is completely demolished, begin filling the large hole with subsoil, a mix of dirt and smaller materials from the demolition.

The frozen ground makes this process easier by preventing the accumulation of excess mud. Fill and compact the soil to prevent future settling that could be a safety hazard.

Over the next few days, monitor the site. As the ground thaws, the hole will start to settle. Remove any smaller debris and ensure the site is clean and free from hazardous materials.

Step 6: Wrap Up and Plan for the Next Steps

A week after the demolition, the site should begin to settle. Take a moment to reflect on the process, considering any challenges, such as weather delays, that you faced.

While the hole will be nearly filled, the final touch will be adding topsoil once the ground fully thaws. After leveling the area, the land will be ready for its subsequent use.

Take this opportunity to make plans for the next project, now that the space is clear and prepared for whatever comes next.

Check out the full video on YouTube below to watch the entire process, from tearing down the barn to filling in the hole:

DIY Barn Demolition

Planning to do the work yourself? That can work only if you’re ready, equipped, and careful every step of the way.

You should always wear hard hats and gloves for safety.
You need sturdy ladders and scaffolding to reach higher sections of the barn.
You must have pry bars, saws, and drills to dismantle parts efficiently.
You will need a truck or trailer to haul away debris.

Work slowly, one section at a time. Don’t rush or cut corners. And if you run into significant issues (like mold, wasp nests, or structural shifts), it’s okay to pause and call in help.

Hiring a Professional

Not sure if DIY is your thing? Hiring a professional can take the stress and danger off your plate.

Request a detailed breakdown of services, including permits, debris removal, and final site cleanup.
Obtain a precise, written quote and confirm the payment terms upfront to avoid any surprises.
Verify that the contractor is insured and adheres to all applicable safety regulations.

A reputable company will provide a comprehensive breakdown and timeline. Ensure they’re licensed and check reviews before signing anything.

Cost of Barn Demolition

Prices can vary a lot. Here’s a ballpark:

Small barns: $1,500 to $3,000
Medium barns: $3,000 to $6,000
Large barns: $6,000 to $10,000 or more

Things that affect the price:

The size and structure of the barn significantly impact the total cost.
Materials used (such as wood, stone, and metal) can impact labor and disposal requirements.
The location and ease of access to your barn may impact the price.
Labor rates and haul-away costs vary depending on your region and vendor.

Doing it yourself might save money, but it also requires additional time and effort. Additionally, if you damage something or get hurt, it could ultimately result in higher costs.

Reclaiming and Selling Barn Wood

Old barn wood can be valuable. If you want to sell it:

You should remove nails and clean the boards thoroughly.
Be sure to sort boards by type and size for easier resale.
Take clear, high-quality photos to showcase your property to potential buyers.
List the wood online or reach out to local buyers and salvage yards.

You can also repurpose it for furniture, walls, or flooring. Just ensure the wood is dry and treated if necessary.

Legal and Environmental Concerns

Handling the legal details adequately protects you and your land. Here are a few things to check:

Confirm whether a demolition permit is required in your area before starting any work.
Ask if you need an environmental assessment for hazards such as asbestos or lead paint.
Find out where and how you can dispose of old materials and debris.

Additionally, consider runoff, nearby wells, and the potential impact on local wildlife. Keep things clean and refrain from burning debris unless permitted in your area.

Post Barn Demolition: What’s Next?

Once the barn is down, you’ve got a blank slate to work with. Here’s what you might do next:

Restore the area by planting grass, trees, or adding a fence.
Utilize the cleared space for a new structure, such as a shed, garage, or even a small home.
Turn the land into something useful, like a garden or a space for animals.

Before building anything new, test the soil and remove any hidden debris, such as nails or metal. It’ll save you problems later.

Conclusion

Now you know what goes into a smart, safe barn demolition, from planning and permits to cleanup and next steps, if you’re doing it yourself or hiring a pro, you’ve got the tools to make confident choices.

You also know how to handle reclaimed wood, avoid legal headaches, and think ahead about what to do with the cleared space.

Just remember, every barn is different, so take your time, double-check the details, and don’t be afraid to ask for help if you need it.

If you’re ready to continue learning, I’ve more guides available to help with your next big project. Go check out the rest of the blog for more hands-on tips and real-world advice.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the demolition take?

Demolition can take anywhere from a few days to a couple of weeks. It depends on the size of the structure, the tools used, and whether you decide to do it yourself or hire help.

Is barn wood worth selling?

Yes, barn wood can be valuable. If the wood is in good shape and has character or age, it can sell for $5–$20 per board foot, especially to builders or designers.

Can I burn the old wood?

You can burn old wood only if it’s untreated and it’s legal in your area. Always check local fire and environmental rules before burning to avoid any fines or safety issues.