Understanding the Value of Ownership

Filling the Gap: How a Pit Closure Repurposed an Industrial Space

Fri, 24 Apr 2026 20:40:46 GMT

When businesses grow, their spaces need to evolve with them. Whether it’s reconfiguring an office layout or repurposing an older industrial property, renovation is often the key to unlocking a company’s full potential. For many organizations, purchasing an existing structure offers the space they need—but it also presents the challenge of transforming it into something functional, safe, and future-ready. That was the case for Empire Services with the pit project at a former manufacturing facility.

Turning Challenges into Opportunities

Renovation projects often begin with demolition—removing walls, clearing interiors, or even tearing down outdated structures like garages or sheds. But sometimes, the solution isn’t demolition; it’s strategic closure and repurposing.

Empire Services was tasked with closing a utility pit. The pit spanned approximately 45 feet and was 14 feet deep. It extended partially beneath the building, adding a layer of complexity that required careful planning, precise execution, and the correct materials for the application.

The Process: Precision at Every Step

Empire Services approached the project with a methodical, safety-first mindset:

Site Preparation: The team began by removing piping and conduits mounted on the wall above the pit, ensuring a clear and safe working area.

Emptying the Pit: Empire Services used an excavator to remove heavy grates covering the pit and to clear out accumulated debris, ensuring a safe and accessible site.

Stone Backfill: In collaboration with affiliate Delaware Valley Utility Contractors , several tons of crushed stone were delivered and strategically placed to fill the pit and surrounding areas.

Grading: The pit was filled to match the existing asphalt level. Next to the asphalt were concrete slabs. Additional stone was spread and leveled around the site preparing it for future paving.

The Result: A Clean Slate for Growth

Whether you’re renovating an office, redeveloping an industrial property, or tackling a complex site challenge, Empire Services has the experience and equipment to get the job done right.

What Has Empire Services Been Up to Lately?

Wed, 15 Apr 2026 18:55:32 GMT

Spring has officially arrived—and at Empire Services, that means transitioning from snow removal to excavation and site development. After a long winter of keeping communities safe and accessible, our team is prepared and ready to take on new projects across the region.

Winter Recap: Keeping Communities Moving

Featured Project: A Complex Clarifier Demolition

Spring Is Here: Excavation Season Begins

With warmer weather underway, our excavation team is already active. We’ve started the season with projects focused on improving functionality, safety, and long-term site performance.

Parking Lot Expansion Project

Recently, our team completed a parking lot expansion that included:

Site clearing
Final grading
Preparation for long-term durability

The site is now prepared and ready for paving.

Corral Project in Berks County

Another recent project brought our crew to a mountaintop in Berks County. We cleared a wooded area to prepare for a horse corral. Using one of our excavators, our team:

Removed trees to open up the space
Built a natural barrier with boulders and rocks
Began shaping the site for its future residents

Work is ongoing, and we look forward to sharing progress updates.

Looking Ahead

At Empire Services, each season brings new opportunities to deliver dependable, quality craftmanship. Whether managing complex demolition projects or preparing sites for future development, our team remains committed to safety, efficiency, and results.

The Top Five Demolition Trends Every Contractor Should Know

Mon, 23 Mar 2026 15:16:09 GMT

In every industry, technology is revising processes, materials, and timelines. The demolition sector is no exception—it has evolved into a smarter, more sustainable, and safer industry. As construction rebounds and infrastructure investment accelerates, demolition contractors are adopting more efficient, innovative ways of working. In fact, the construction and demolition waste sector is projected to grow significantly, reaching over $230 billion and continuing to grow over $310 billion by 2030. With this momentum in mind, let’s take a look at the top five demolition trends for this year.

1. Sustainable Demolition

Sustainability has become a central focus of construction, with demolition playing a critical role in that shift. General contractors are choosing deconstruction ( selective demolition ) over total demolition, which involves carefully dismantling structures to recycle valuable materials such as concrete, steel, and wood. This approach reduces landfill waste, supports recycling and reuse, and aligns with circular economy initiatives (salvaged materials do not become waste). As regulations tighten and clients prioritize environmental performance, sustainable demolition practices are a key factor in winning and delivering projects.

2. Advanced Technology and Automation

Technology is rapidly reshaping demolition sites into safer, more data-driven environments. Robotics (e.g., robot dog) and remote-controlled equipment are increasingly used to perform high-risk tasks, minimizing unsafe conditions. Drones have become essential for site surveys, inspections, and progress tracking, offering faster and more accurate visibility across projects. Lastly, we cannot forget about artificial intelligence (AI). AI and advanced analytics identify potential risks, monitor equipment performance, and make real-time decisions. Together, these tools are improving precision, reducing delays, and enhancing overall project efficiency.

3. Infrastructure Investment and Urban Redevelopment

The rise in infrastructure investment and urban redevelopment projects is creating strong demand for demolition services. As cities continue to grow and aging structures require replacement, general contractors see opportunities in adaptive reuse and large-scale redevelopment initiatives. Demolition is often the first and most critical step in these projects, particularly in urban environments where space constraints are challenging. This trend is expected to continue as both public and private sectors invest in modernizing infrastructure and repurposing existing spaces.

4. Increased Focus on Safety and Compliance

Safety remains a top priority in demolition, especially as projects become more complex. Demolition contractors are investing in advanced solutions, including remote-controlled machinery, monitoring systems, and advanced training programs to reduce risk on-site. These technologies allow demolition teams to identify potential issues earlier and respond more effectively, helping to prevent incidents and maintain compliance with evolving safety standards. A proactive approach to safety not only protects workers but also reduces costly disruptions and improves overall project results.

5. Specialized Equipment for Modern Challenges

As demolition projects become more complex, specialized equipment has become mandatory. High-reach excavators are now commonly used for multi-story structures, particularly in urban settings where precision is essential to protect nearby buildings and infrastructure. Customized attachments provide more controlled and selective demolition, enabling demolition teams to work efficiently while minimizing disruption. This shift toward specialized equipment reflects the industry’s broader move toward precision, adaptability, and operational excellence.

Final Thoughts

Today’s demolition industry is driven by innovation, sustainability, and precision. Demolition contractors who embrace these trends are better positioned to deliver safer, more efficient, and environmentally responsible results in an increasingly competitive market.

At Empire Services, we are committed to staying ahead of industry advancements—providing our clients with demolition solutions that set the stage for success.

Do You Know the Main Difference Between Exterior and Industrial Demolition?

Tue, 10 Mar 2026 14:38:18 GMT

Demolition is often viewed as simply tearing down structures to make room for renovation or new construction. However, demolition services vary significantly depending on the structure type, materials involved, and safety requirements.

The two services that are often confused are exterior demolition and industrial demolition. Though both involve dismantling, their scope, complexity, equipment, and regulatory needs are distinct. Understanding these differences will help you choose the right demolition service for your project.

What Is Exterior Demolition?

Exterior demolition focuses on removing structures or the exterior portions of a building. It is commonly performed during renovations, property upgrades, or site preparation projects.

Common Exterior Demolition Projects

Key Characteristics of Exterior Demolition

Smaller Project Scope

Exterior demolition usually focuses on specific structures or sections of a property.

Residential and Commercial Applications

Most projects occur in residential, commercial, and institutional settings, such as schools or office buildings.

What Is Industrial Demolition?

Unlike exterior demolition, industrial demolition focuses on dismantling large-scale industrial facilities as well as bridges, equipment, and machinery. These projects are significantly more complex and require specialized equipment, unique skills, and additional safety planning. They are often necessary because equipment or infrastructure becomes outdated or unsafe.

Examples of Industrial Demolition Projects

Key Characteristics of Industrial Demolition

Large-Scale Operations

Industrial projects often involve multiple buildings, extensive infrastructure, and large land areas, requiring coordinated planning and logistics.

Specialized Equipment

Industrial demolition typically requires heavy-duty machinery such as:

High-reach excavators
Hydraulic shears
Hydraulic breakers and pulverizers
Concrete crushers
Controlled explosives in certain cases

Longer Project Timelines

Due to the scale, safety procedures, and regulatory requirements, industrial demolition projects can take longer to complete.

Why Hiring Professional Demolition Contractors Matters

Regardless of project size, professional demolition services are essential for ensuring safety, efficiency, and regulatory compliance.

Experienced demolition contractors handle critical aspects of the process, including:

Pre-demolition survey and work plan
Securing permits and scheduling inspections
Managing waste removal and recycling
Preparing the site for future construction

Choosing the right contractor can reduce project timelines and costs to ensure a safe worksite.

Final Thoughts

Although exterior demolition and industrial demolition both involve partial or complete dismantling of structures, their scale, complexity, and safety requirements differ. Exterior demolition focuses on a residential or commercial project tied to renovations and property upgrades. Industrial demolition, in contrast, involves large facilities, specialized equipment, and compliance.

At Empire Services, we provide professional exterior and industrial demolition services throughout the Mid-Atlantic region. Our experienced team combines specialized equipment, strict safety standards, and efficient project management to deliver exceptional results. Contact us today to discuss your project and request a customized demolition quote.

Interior Demolition: Precision Over Power

Mon, 23 Feb 2026 18:41:57 GMT

When most people think of demolition, they imagine buildings reduced to rubble and sites cleared to the ground. But demolition isn’t always about tearing everything down. In many cases, the structure remains intact, while only the interior is transformed. That’s where interior demolition comes in.

For property owners, developers, and general contractors, interior (or selective) demolition is the strategic first step toward renovation. It creates a clean slate without compromising the building’s structural integrity, which saves time, money, and resources.

What Is Interior Demolition?

Interior demolition is a controlled process that removes specific interior components of a structure while preserving the exterior shell and load-bearing elements.

Depending on your project goals, this can include:

Removing non-load-bearing walls and partitions
Taking out doors, windows, and trim
Stripping flooring, ceilings, and drywall
Removing cabinetry and built-ins
Disconnecting and clearing plumbing, electrical, and HVAC systems
Performing full gut demolitions

Whether you’re redesigning an office, remodeling a retail space, or updating a residential property, interior demolition makes way for a brand-new layout without starting from scratch.

When Do You Need Interior Demolition?

Interior demolition is ideal when:

✔ The Building Structure Is Sound

If your foundation, framing, and exterior are in good condition, sometimes there’s no need for full structural demolition.

✔ You’re Reconfiguring the Floor Plan

Open concept designs, expanded retail areas, or modern office layouts can all begin with removing outdated interior elements.

✔ You’re Planning a Full Renovation

A complete gut job often clears the space down to its structural framework, giving general contractors and designers full creative freedom.

✔ You’re Completing Tenant Improvements

Commercial spaces often require selective demolition to meet new tenant specifications.

Interior Demolition vs. Exterior Demolition: What’s the Difference?

Understanding the difference helps you choose the right service:

Interior Demolition

Preserves the building structure
Targets specific interior areas
Requires smaller, compact equipment
Ideal for renovations and remodels

Exterior Demolition

Removes the entire building or exterior components
Requires heavy equipment and accurate scheduling
Often requires coordination with utility providers for safe disconnection of utilities.
Used when the structure is unsafe or outdated beyond repair

If your goal is transformation — not total removal — interior demolition is the smart solution.

Start Your Renovation the Right Way

Creating a clean slate doesn’t always mean tearing a building down. Sometimes, it means carefully removing what no longer serves the space — and preparing it for something new and better. If you’re planning a renovation or tenant improvement project, interior demolition is the first step toward bringing your vision to life.

At Empire Services, we specialize in safe, efficient, and precise interior demolition services that prepare your space for its next chapter. Contact our team today to get a quote!

Tackling a Complex Demolition: Update

Mon, 09 Feb 2026 15:33:07 GMT

Updated February 6, 2026, for additional information.

Clarifying a Clarifier

Clarifiers play a vital role in wastewater treatment by removing suspended solids through the process of gravity settling. These sedimentation tanks separate solid particulates from liquid, producing two distinct outputs: clarified water and concentrated sludge. Far from being just mechanical components, clarifiers are essential to the overall efficiency and success of any water or wastewater treatment system.

Available in various shapes and sizes, most clarifiers are circular—an optimal design that promotes maximum settling efficiency. However, their large scale and unique structures can present challenges when it comes to access and maintenance. That’s why strategic planning is crucial when it comes time to dismantle these critical systems safely and effectively.

A Giant Shark Tank: Removing a 198-Foot Wastewater Clarifier

Empire Services was tasked with dismantling an enormous wastewater clarifier that stood 198 feet in diameter and 20 feet below ground level. The clarifier featured a complex interior slope and several built-in structures, making access a key challenge before demolition could even begin.

With most industrial demolition projects, the interior must be cleared before any exterior dismantling can occur. But in this case, even getting inside the structure required a creative solution. We used a small crane to lower a personnel lift into the circular tank. Once inside, a custom scaffold stair tower was erected to ensure safe and easy access for crew members.

The personnel lift equipment was critical for enabling our team in torch-cutting the interior components located high inside the structure.

These included:

Bridges
Motor systems
Radial water troughs
Walkways
Internal steel frames

From Demolition to Salvage

Whether it's removing massive industrial equipment, demolishing entire structures, or salvaging mechanical systems, Empire Services brings:

Advanced equipment
Proven demolition techniques
Highly trained crews
A commitment to safety and efficiency

At Empire Services, we pride ourselves on taking on some of the most challenging industrial demolition projects in the region—and delivering safe, efficient, and precise results every time. This Delaware County project exemplifies the experience, strategic planning, and innovation our team brings to every job.

Select Exterior Demolition: Precision, Planning and Progress

Mon, 12 Jan 2026 21:45:32 GMT

Demolition doesn’t always mean tearing a building down to the ground. In fact, one of the most valuable and widely used approaches in today’s construction is select demolition, which includes interior, exterior and structural removals.

At Empire Services, select exterior demolition is more than a service—it’s a craft built on experience, planning, and precision.

What Exactly Is Select Exterior Demolition?

Select exterior demolition involves the careful removal of specific exterior elements of a structure while keeping the rest of the building intact. This can include finishes or components such as brick, siding, windows, doors, or exterior wall sections.

Because only targeted areas are removed, the term selective demolition is often referred to as select demolition. What makes it unique is its balance of craftsmanship and power. Depending on the scope and sensitivity of the project, the work may be performed:

By hand , for detailed removals like windows, doors, or masonry
With heavy equipment , when larger exterior sections need to be removed efficiently

This approach is commonly used on both residential and commercial structures when materials have deteriorated due to age, rot, mold, or structural wear. The success of the job depends on choosing the right method for each area of the structure. It’s also a key step when preparing a building for expansion or a completely new façade.

Real Projects. Real Results.

Empire Services has proudly supported numerous exterior demolition projects across Pennsylvania, partnering with municipalities, institutions, and general contractors.

We were honored to participate in the renovation of the Springfield Municipal Building in Delaware County, PA. Empire Services' team utilized a CAT 325 excavator to carefully dismantle the key sections, including the front façade. These sections were delicately hand separated from the remaining section, which preserved the integrity of the remaining structure. This work helped clear the way for modernization while preserving the building’s core structure.

Our team was also excited to play a role in the multi-phase renovation of Gingrich Library at Albright College in Reading, Pennsylvania. We began the project by carefully hand-demolishing the façade (brick and removing windows) to prepare the building for a modern new façade.

When removing a compromised cementitious façade, it must be removed from top to bottom. This required a lot of manual work with minimal equipment for hoisting and cleanup. An 85-foot personnel lift, a 55-foot telescopic material handler, and compact track loaders were used for efficient cleanup. Also, the location of the job site was challenging since we are working within tight site boundaries, and the library is nestled between two campus buildings.

Reusing and Recycling Materials

One of the major benefits of select exterior demolition is the opportunity to reuse and recycle materials. Brick, wood, metal, and even concrete can often be salvaged instead of discarded.

Empire Services is committed to responsible demolition practices and has successfully recycled materials from numerous projects, including plank flooring and various metals, helping reduce waste while adding value for our clients.

Built on Experience You Can Trust

At Empire Services, interior and exterior demolition are the foundation of our business. From selective exterior removals to full-scale demolition, we bring professional planning, a proven track record, and a commitment to safety to every project.

No matter the size or complexity of the job, Empire Services is ready to help you move forward clearing the way for what’s next.

A Look back at 2025

Tue, 16 Dec 2025 18:45:18 GMT

We find ourselves at the end of another year. Where has the time gone? Empire Services completed a variety of demolition, site, and civil projects. Each one required a strategic solution to achieve successful results. Let’s take a look at some project and event highlights from this year.

Select Demolition of a Historic Building

Every demolition project presents its own unique challenges, and at Empire Services, we're always prepared to meet them head-on with the most effective approach born from decades of ingenuity and extensive experience.

Our crew worked on a select building demolition in downtown Reading, PA. This historic building had a partially collapsed roof and compromised walls. In an attempt to salvage the structure, we used two hydraulic truck cranes to accomplish the task at hand.

Unfortunately, after the failing portions were removed, it was determined the building was not safe and needed to be totally removed. Empire Services mobilized one of our 95-foot UHD excavators and completely demolished the unstable structure. The site is currently a green space awaiting future development.

Taking Part in Albright’s Gingrich Library Transformation

Empire Services was proud to support the transformation of Albright University’s Gingrich Library . Our team completed the careful hand demolition of the building’s brick façade and windows, clearing the way for a modern new exterior.

From there, we transitioned to removing utilities, partitions, and mechanical systems to prepare the space for its next phase. One of the project’s most complex challenges involved excavating a new elevator pit in a sub-basement filled with bedrock. We crane-lifted equipment through the new elevator shaft opening and maneuvered it five stories down into place to complete the job.

Retirement Village Water Service Installation

Empire Services completed a mile-long water service installation at a large retirement village. Our team delivered a top-quality project with speed and precision that included a new water service and individual supply lines to all the buildings.

This phased project required complete restoration of each individual work area, which included paving, sidewalk, and landscape restoration.

The Empire Group Timeline is Completed

Empire Group celebrated 70 years of service, growth, and innovation! To mark this milestone, we created a special timeline that highlighted key moments, achievements, and memories that shaped our journey.

From the early days to major growth in the 1970s, the timeline came together as a heartfelt look back at our history—complete with photos and stories from the people who helped build Empire Group. We’re excited to share this visual journey with everyone! Read more at https://www.esreading.com/celebrating-70-years-with-an-inspiring-timeline .

Tackling a Complex Industrial Demolition

Empire Services was tasked with dismantling an enormous wastewater clarifier that encompassed 198 feet in diameter and 20 feet below ground level. The clarifier featured a complex interior slope and several built-in structures, making access a key challenge before demolition could even begin.

We used a small crane to lower a personnel lift into the circular tank. Once inside, a custom scaffold stair tower was erected to ensure safe and easy access for crew members. The personnel lift equipment was critical for enabling our team to perform torch-cutting on the interior components located high inside the structure. These included bridges, motor systems, radial water troughs, walkways and internal steel frames.

The 30th Annual Empire Group Golf Classic

On behalf of the Empire Group, we would like to offer our sincere thanks to everyone who participated in our Annual Golf Classic on October 4th at the beautiful Galen Hall Golf Club in Wernersville, PA. Read more at https://www.esreading.com/empire-group-hosts-30th-annual-golf-classic !

Happy Retirement, Todd!

After 42 years of dedication, leadership, and hard work, Todd Quinter retired, leaving behind an incredible legacy at Empire Services.

We celebrated his remarkable career with a wonderful retirement lunch at Empire Group and thanked Todd for his years of expertise, guidance, and commitment. While we’ll miss his leadership, we wish him joy, adventure, and well-earned relaxation in this next chapter!

Empire Services Pickleball Open

Empire Services recently completed the restoration of Laurel Run Park in Reading, PA. Our team handled excavation, storm sewers, grading, drainage, and new landscaping—including pickleball courts.

And of course, we couldn’t resist testing the new courts! Gavin O’Neill (DVUC) and Ryan George (Empire Services) volunteered for a little inter-company rivalry. Gavin won the inaugural Empire Services Pickleball Open and has retained bragging rights until the next one.

At Empire Services, we are grateful for the opportunity to work these and all other projects, helping our customers achieve their goals. We also appreciate our team and everyone working behind the scenes to keep Empire Services operating safely and efficiently. We look forward to the projects we will be working on in 2026!

Celebrating 70 Years With an Inspiring Timeline

Mon, 24 Nov 2025 18:55:40 GMT

What began as a simple timeline project quickly became a heartfelt journey through Empire Group’s living history. As dates, milestones, and old photographs came together, so did the stories—memories shared by former employees whose passion and dedication helped shape the company from the ground up. From dismantling a radio tower to demolishing a drive-in theater, their recollections painted a vivid portrait of a company built on grit, innovation, and camaraderie.

Former employees Ray Geiger, Bob Nocera and Steve Beisswanger sat down with Ellen Ganime (Empire Group) to revisit decades of work, flipping through photo albums, and reliving the challenges and triumphs of past projects. As they talked, one thing was unmistakably clear: Empire Group’s story is not just about the jobs completed—it’s about the people whose shared experiences fueled the company’s growth.

A Legacy Etched in Steel and Stone

One of the many things that stood out during this project was the sheer scale and impact of Empire’s work over the decades. Vintage photos revealed the dramatic evolution of equipment, techniques, and industry standards. Many projects were so ambitious in scope that they gained national attention in magazines like Demolition and Constructioneer. Each snapshot served as a reminder of how far the company has come.

More Than a Timeline—A Tribute

What started as a historical record became something much more: a tribute to the people, progress, and perseverance that define Empire Group’s 70-year legacy. The timeline celebrates the company’s humble beginnings, its extraordinary achievements, and the enduring spirit that continues to drive it forward.

A Big Thank You

This project would not have come to life without the help from several people:

Karen O’Neill
Allen Dejewski
Ryleigh Bohning
Ellyn Harkin
Tonia Carlile

A special thank you to Todd and Harry O’Neill for sharing their extensive collection of articles and photos, and to Ray Geiger, Bob Nocera, and Steve Beisswanger for their great stories and photo albums. Be sure to stop by the training room to check out the timeline for yourself!

Strengthening Infrastructure: Empire Services Replaces a Failing Culvert in Berks County, PA

Mon, 17 Nov 2025 16:07:45 GMT

In Centre township, PA a pipe culvert needed to be replaced due to age-related deterioration. The Centre Township Municipality Authority contracted Empire Services to replace a pipe culvert located beneath a busy roadway. The original 36” diameter concrete-and-metal pipe had not only deteriorated but also was undersized for the volume of water it needed to handle.

Empire’s approach combined replacement and restoration. Using a CAT 321 excavator, the team swiftly removed the old culvert and installed 60 linear feet of 48-inch HDPE pipe, providing greater durability and improved flow capacity. To complete the project, Empire restored the asphalt roadway with fresh new paving ensuring a smooth, stable surface. The project was completed ahead of schedule in just three days.

The Top Three Causes of Culvert Failure

Many municipalities prefer culverts over bridges because they serve a similar purpose but are faster and more cost-effective to install. However, like any drainage structures, culverts can deteriorate over time or fail. With the Centre Township culvert, age was the reason for replacement. It’s one of the top three reasons for culvert failure:

Design: A culvert that isn’t engineered to handle increasing local traffic loads or water flow can crack or collapse. Changes in land use or development can also increase flow demands, overloading the structure.
Maintenance: Debris buildup, erosion, or overgrowth can restrict water flow, reducing capacity and leading to blockages or washouts.
Age and Wear: Constant exposure to water and sediment gradually wears down the interior, especially the bottom (the invert), causing structural failure.

Culvert: an Efficient Solution

When water needs to pass safely beneath a road embankment, a culvert is the best solution. Designed to channel water efficiently, culverts help prevent erosion and minimize the risk of flooding in surrounding areas. While simple in structure, these underground drainage systems play a vital role in maintaining safe and functional roadways.

Culverts are installed beneath roads, railways, or trails. Among the various types—such as box , arch, and slab—pipe culverts are the most common. They can be made from materials like aluminum, galvanized steel, concrete, or high-density polyethylene (HDPE), depending on the project requirements.

Empire Services has successfully completed numerous culvert replacements across Pennsylvania, from box structures to large-diameter pipe systems. Each project is handled with the same commitment to safety, efficiency, and quality workmanship that our clients have come to expect.

Emergency Demolition: When Disaster Strikes

Tue, 28 Oct 2025 14:16:46 GMT

No one ever expects an emergency demolition situation—until it happens. Whether it’s a roof that suddenly caves in, walls that are crumbling under the weight of age, the aftermath of a fire or a severe weather event, the need for emergency demolition can arise without warning. That’s why having a reliable, experienced demolition company ready to respond quickly is essential.

At Empire Services, we understand the critical importance of emergency demolition, not just for removing dangerous structures, but also for protecting the people and property around them. Here’s why emergency demolition is so vital and how we can keep your property and community safe during emergencies.

The Importance of Emergency Demolition

Emergency demolition more than just tearing down a building—it’s about protecting lives, preventing further damage, and restoring safety. It a crucial service that:

Prevents Further Structural Damage

A compromised building can continue to degrade, putting nearby structures at risk. Emergency demolition minimizes the risk that the damage spreads, protecting neighboring buildings and infrastructure.

Protects Vehicles and Property

If a building is on the verge of collapsing, vehicles parked nearby could be damaged or destroyed. Quick removal of the unstable structure can help prevent damage to vehicles, roadways, or any other property within the immediate vicinity.

Safeguards Utilities and Infrastructure

Collapsing buildings can damage essential utilities like gas lines, water mains, or electrical systems. Emergency demolition minimizes the risk of utility disruptions and potential dangers like fires or flooding.

Ensures Public Safety

Above all, the most important reason for emergency demolition is to protect people. A dangerous building could pose a serious threat to pedestrians, workers, or anyone in the area. By swiftly removing it, we reduce the risk of injuries or worse.

How Empire Services Can Hel p

Empire Services specializes in providing fast, efficient, and safe emergency demolition services. We are contracted by municipalities to demolish and stabilize a variety of structures – day or night . Our team has demolished old factories, abandoned buildings, and fire-damaged structures. We utilize the latest equipment to safely dismantle and clear hazardous structures, no matter how complex or unstable.

Our emergency demolition services include:

Rapid assessment and response
Safe and thorough demolition of unstable structures
Protection of surrounding property, vehicles, and utilities
Site clearing and debris removal
Comprehensive safety measures to protect the public
Temporary stabilization of deteriorating structures

We’re Ready to Respond

Emergencies are unpredictable, but with Empire Services, you have a partner you can rely on when disaster strikes. We pride ourselves on our ability to quickly assess the situation and take swift action, ensuring that the demolition process is done safely, efficiently, and with minimal disruption.

If you’re dealing with a dangerous structure that needs immediate attention, don’t wait for further damage. Contact Empire Services today to discuss our emergency demolition services.

Empire Group Hosts 30th Annual Golf Classic

Tue, 14 Oct 2025 18:35:42 GMT

On behalf of the Empire Group, we would like to offer our sincere thanks to everyone who participated in our Annual Golf Classic on October 4 ^th at the beautiful Galen Hall Golf Club in Wernersville, PA. It’s hard to believe this marked the 30th year of the tournament!

Although this was Empire Group's first time hosting the event at this historic venue, we have deep roots at Galen Hall — Empire Services demolished the original Galen Hall Hotel back in 1963 following a devastating fire. Since then, the golf club has remained a local landmark, known for its scenic views and welcoming atmosphere.

Despite the cool early morning, 99 golfers were warmed up and ready for the 8 AM shot gun start leading to some fun but competitive golfing. After the final putt dropped, everyone gathered for a hearty lunch followed by the award ceremonies. Shout out to the winners of all categories and the raffle!

Tournament Results

First Place: Jey Newswanger, Brent Gosser, Cody Wagner, and Grant Sholly

Second Place: Ryan Miller, Chris Morton, Jason Delewski, and Robert Hebner

Third Place: Barry Hall, Vince Mitsky, Pat Detweiler, and Joe Moser

Closest to the Pin:

Hole #7: Troy Potthoff

Hole #10: Dan Koziel

Hole #15: Cody Wagner

Longest Drive:

Hole #12: JT Tomascik

A Big Thank You

We’d like to extend our sincere appreciation to everyone who helped make this event possible:

Karen O’Neill

Jey Newswanger

Allen Dejewski

Chris Gring

Ellen Ganime

Jack Schoener

Lauren Bohning

Ryleigh Bohning

Brenda Marks

A special thank-you goes out to Todd & Karen O’Neill and Harry & Cathy O’Neill — without them we could not do this every year!

Thank you to all the players and volunteers who came out to celebrate with us. We look forward to seeing everyone again next year for another great day of golf.

Wrapping Up a Hot Summer

Mon, 29 Sep 2025 18:08:00 GMT

This summer, Empire Services proved that even scorching heat can’t slow us down. Our demolition and excavation teams worked tirelessly across the region, keeping projects on schedule and ensuring client satisfaction. From precise pipe installations to complex industrial dismantling, we brought the talent, equipment, and dedication needed to deliver safe and successful results. Below are some of our recent project highlights that showcase the range of services Empire Services provides.

Solving a Drainage Problem for a Local Elementary School

Dismantling a Massive Shark Tank

Demolition Progress at Albright College’s Gingrich Library

Emergency Response in Reading, PA

Why Choose Empire Services for Demolition and Excavation?

At Empire Services, we pride ourselves on delivering dependable demolition and excavation solutions for projects of all sizes. Whether it’s solving a drainage issue at a school, dismantling complex industrial structures, or responding to an unexpected emergency, our team brings the right mix of skill, experience, and heavy equipment to every job.

As we continue transforming campuses, stabilizing structures, and reshaping spaces across the region, Empire Services remains your trusted partner for reliable demolition and excavation services.

Hard Hats and Homework: How Empire Services Keeps School Projects on Track

Mon, 15 Sep 2025 20:58:49 GMT

School demolition and sitework projects come with a unique set of challenges: tight timelines, limited space, sensitive environments, and the need to avoid disruptions to student learning. Whether it’s a complete building demolition or utility work, every site requires careful planning, coordination, and execution.

At Empire Services, we understand the pressure and precision required in educational demolition projects. That’s why schools across Pennsylvania—from elementary to college campuses—trust us to get the job done right.

Fast-Paced Timelines & Strategic Execution

Most school demolition projects aim to take advantage of the summer break, compressing a massive amount of work into a narrow timeframe. When classes are in session, the work must continue—phased, sequenced, and meticulously managed to ensure safety and minimal disruption.

Empire Services is equipped to meet these challenges head-on. With decades of industry experience and a versatile fleet of equipment, our team specializes in:

Interior and Exterior Demolition
Site Grading and Excavation
Foundations and Utility Work
Site Restoration

A Year in Review: School Projects Across Pennsylvania

In the past year alone, Empire Services has delivered expert civil and demolition work for a variety of educational institutions, including:

Elementary & Middle Schools:

Wyomissing Hills Elementary Center, Wyomissing, PA
Salford Elementary School, Harleysville, PA
Renaissance Academy , Phoenixville, PA
Governor Mifflin Middle School, Shillington, PA

High Schools & Higher Education:

Albright College , Reading, PA
Governor Mifflin High School , Shillington, PA
Pennsylvania State University, Berks Campus, Reading, PA

Each site presented its own logistical and technical obstacles. Whether maneuvering through compact parking lots or coordinating with multiple contractors on larger campuses, Empire Services brought strategic solutions, safe operations, and quality craftsmanship to every project.

Why Empire Services Makes the Grade

Empire Services isn't just another contractor—we're a trusted partner. Schools continue to choose us because we deliver:

Aggressive scheduling expertise
Skilled mobilization of heavy equipment
Minimal disruption to ongoing school operations
Commitment to safety, professionalism, and quality

Looking Ahead: Building a Better Future

As we reflect on another successful year of partnering with school districts and educational institutions, we’re proud of our team's ability to adapt, problem-solve, and execute at the highest level. The projects completed this year will benefit thousands of students and educators for years to come.

We’re excited for what’s ahead and look forward to continuing to help Pennsylvania schools create safe, modern learning environments through expert demolition and sitework services.

Wyomissing Hills Elementary Center

Governor Mifflin Middle School

Renaissance Academy

Albright College

Empire Services Tackles a Complex Industrial Demolition

Tue, 02 Sep 2025 19:47:23 GMT

At Empire Services, we pride ourselves on taking on some of the most challenging industrial demolition projects in the region—and delivering safe, efficient, and precise results every time. One of our most recent projects in Delaware County, PA, exemplifies the level of experience, strategy, and innovation our team brings to the table.

Clarifying a Clarifier

A Giant Shark Tank: Removing a 198-Foot Wastewater Clarifier

The personnel lift equipment was critical for enabling our team in torch-cutting the interior components located high inside the structure. These included:

Bridges
Motor systems
Radial water troughs
Walkways
Internal steel frames

From Demolishing to Salvaging

Whether it's removing massive industrial equipment, demolishing entire structures, or salvaging mechanical systems, Empire Services brings:

Advanced equipment
Proven demolition techniques
Highly trained crews
A commitment to safety and efficiency

This Delaware County project is just one example of how we go above and beyond to meet complex industrial demolition challenges.

A New Water Service for Cathedral Village

Wed, 20 Aug 2025 18:28:41 GMT

The Phases of a Water Line Installation

Fulfilling a Mandated Requirement

Empire Services used multiple excavators, compact track loaders, trucks, and rollers to get the job completed. By utilizing the equipment , they were able to efficiently install over a mile of piping around the entire facility. Even though this is a private community, we still had to be mindful of local traffic and parking along the installation path. The team made it work by accommodating to their surroundings.

Transforming Underutilized Spaces at Governor Mifflin Middle School & High School

Tue, 15 Jul 2025 18:16:04 GMT

At Empire Services, we specialize in transforming large, complex spaces - and few environments are more dynamic than today’s schools. We’re proud to take part in another school renovation in Berks County, PA, where we’re currently working on exciting renovation projects at Governor Mifflin Middle School and High School.

Demolition with Purpose: Supporting a New Vision for Education

Methodical, Safe, and Efficient Demolition Services

Our approach to these projects is systematic, with safety being a top priority. We began by removing lockers, interior walls, and ceilings to create a clean slate. From there, our team tackled cutting new openings, removing floor finishes, and preparing the spaces for reconstruction. In addition to following safety protocols, we took the necessary precautions to ensure our team was protected from heat stress during the recent extreme temperatures.

To get the job done efficiently, our crew used specialized equipment, including scissor lifts, a forklift, and multiple dingo loaders. Debris was managed responsibly by both Empire Services and Berks Transfer , an Empire Group affiliate. Sustainability matters to us, so all recyclable materials were transported to the appropriate facilities, and this eco-friendly effort will continue throughout the projects.

Why School Renovation Projects Require Specialized Expertise

Schools are not your average job sites. Renovations often unfold in multiple phases over one to two years, requiring flexibility, long-term planning, and coordination with the school district and other contractors.

As educational needs evolve, such as rising student enrollment, updated technology, and changing curricula, the physical spaces must support them. At Empire Services, we’ve helped schools across the Mid-Atlantic region adapt and grow with the times.

Building a Better Future for Governor Mifflin

Our role in the Governor Mifflin Middle School and High School renovations is more than demolition - it’s about making way for progress. The reimagined spaces we help create today will serve future generations of students and educators, fostering better learning environments and stronger communities.

Celebrating 70 Years of Transformation: The Empire Group Timeline

Tue, 01 Jul 2025 18:28:09 GMT

Ellen Ganime

Not many people can say they’ve experienced the full arc of a company’s evolution in a single sitting; yet, I had the honor of doing just that while helping create a timeline for Empire Group’s 70th anniversary. What began as a modest demolition and excavation firm (Empire Wrecking) has grown into a regional powerhouse (Empire Group) with five thriving affiliates, forever changing the landscape of Reading, PA, and beyond.

From Demolition to Utility Work

It’s not just the Empire Wrecking (dba Empire Services) projects that are interesting—it’s also the affiliates ( Elk Environmental Services, DVC , DVUC , Empire Services, and Berks Transfer ) that were born out of necessity. Each one represents a solution to a challenge encountered on the job site. Over the years, these companies emerged organically, each one reinforcing the next while staying rooted in Empire Group’s foundational expertise. Seeing their formation laid out on the timeline, each connected to the Empire name, brings a swell of pride. Together, they form a tightly woven network that supports and enhances every project, expanding the company’s capabilities and impact.

A Journey Through the Decades

The timeline project is more than just compiling dates and milestones—it’s a journey through Empire Group’s living history. I had the pleasure of sitting down with former employees whose passion, dedication, and stories brought the company’s legacy to life. From dismantling a radio tower to demolishing a racetrack, their experiences painted a vivid picture of a company built on hard work, innovation, and camaraderie.

Former employees Bob Nocera and Steve Beisswanger shared unforgettable stories about complex projects and the bonds formed on job sites as we pored over countless pictures. Listening to them reminisce, it was clear: Empire Group isn’t just about the projects—it’s about the people and shared experiences that have played a crucial role in the company’s development.

A Legacy Etched in Steel and Stone

What stood out most during the timeline creation was the scale and impact of Empire’s work. Old photographs showed the dramatic evolution of equipment and techniques—proof of how far the company has evolved. In many cases, Empire tackled projects so impressive in scale and complexity that they were featured in national publications, such as Demolition Magazine and Constructioneer, as well as many various location publications.

More Than a Timeline—A Tribute

This timeline became more than a historical record; it became a tribute to the people and the progress that have defined Empire Group for over seven decades. It’s a reminder of the company’s roots, its remarkable growth, and the enduring spirit that continues to drive it forward.

As we celebrate this 70-year milestone, there’s a collective sense of pride in everything Empire Group has accomplished. From its humble beginnings to shaping skylines, the journey has been nothing short of inspiring. Here’s to 70 more years!

Albright's Gingrich Library Gets a 21st Century Makeover

Mon, 23 Jun 2025 18:31:26 GMT

Empire Services is excited to play a key role in the transformation of Gingrich Library at Albright College in Reading, Pennsylvania. Constructed in 1964, Gingrich Library was once considered a modern structure. It has evolved over the decades to feature new technology and resources. Also, a fourth floor was added in 1977. This renovation will encapsulate today’s technology to create a unique learning facility. It will not only house the library but will also offer archives, a writing and tutoring center, and student disability services. Adding to the scope of work was an infrastructure issue; several areas of the building were compromised due to water infiltration causing concerning damage.

Empire Services Tackles Complex Demolition Work

Reshaping the Future of Learning

Empire Services Local Summer Projects: Demolition & Renovation Highlights

Thu, 05 Jun 2025 12:53:05 GMT

As summer rolls in, Empire Services is hard at work across Southeastern Pennsylvania, delivering top-tier demolition and excavation services with precision, safety, and efficiency. Our team proudly supports public and private projects that create lasting impacts, including transforming local parks. Here's a look at some of the exciting projects we're tackling this season.

Gingrich Library Renovation Continues

We are proud to be a part of the upgrade and modernization of Albright College’s Gingrich Library. Our crew began with the careful manual façade demolition and window removal to preserve the structural integrity of this educational facility.

With the exterior demolition complete, our crews have transitioned to the interior demolition, which includes the removal of ceilings, partitions, and mechanical features. And lastly will be the final phase of civil upgrades starting the near future. This project is a cornerstone in creating a more modern academic hub. Stay tuned !

Empire Services Brings a Historic Façade Full Circle

Earlier this spring, Empire was contracted by the City of Reading to perform an emergency/exploratory partial demolition of a compromised roof structure. All of this in an attempt to preserve a historic façade.

Upon further evaluation, the building in question were deemed unsafe and posed an imminent threat to public safety. In response, the City of Reading ordered the demolition of the building and the adjacent structure at 433 Penn Street. Empire Services demolished both structures showcasing our ability to adapt quickly to evolving project requirements.

Demolition of a Neighborhood Pool

Our team recently demolished a pool in East Reading. The project consisted of the pool and three structures. Our crew quickly and efficiently demolished the structures and then the pool. The demolition is making way for a splash park and parking lot. The pool was featured in the 1970 film Rabbit, Run based on the novel by Berks County native John Updike. We look forward to the construction of new parking area and splash park!

Barbey’s Playground Renovation

Empire Services has upgraded several parks in Southeastern Pennsylvania. Our latest transformation is Barbey’s Playground in Reading, where we demolished the old splash pad to make way for a new one. Our crew installed the new spray system and water meter pit, as well as poured the concrete pad. We also paved the walkways in the park. Mayor Moran and city officials recently held a re-opening ceremony to an excited crowd ready to try out the new splash pad. Like the East Reading pool, Barbey Park was also featured in Rabbit, Run, and we were honored to help reimagine it for future generations.

At Empire Services, we are thankful for the opportunity to work on these and all other projects, enabling us to help our customers achieve their goals. We look forward to the projects we will be working on the coming months!

Empire Services Brings a Historic Facade Full Circle

Tue, 20 May 2025 19:05:41 GMT

What began as a mission to preserve a piece of Reading’s architectural history ultimately came full circle for Empire Services. In March, the City of Reading contracted Empire Services to perform an emergency/exploratory partial demolition of a compromised roof structure located at 431 Penn Street. The building featured a distinctive façade, originally part of the Reading News Building constructed in 1912. That same façade had been taken down piece by piece and then carefully reinstalled in 1981 by Empire Services and Eshbach Brothers, ensuring its secure attachment to its structure. The initial goal of the partial demolition was to preserve the iconic storefront at all costs.

In addition, Empire removed the remainder of the building—excluding a 60-foot section and the preserved façade, which were to remain intact. Upon further evaluation, the building was deemed unsafe and posed a threat to public safety. The building and the adjacent structure (433 Penn Street) were then demolished by Empire. In a symbolic gesture, the original stone block engraved with “The Reading News” was preserved.

While the effort to save the façade ultimately ended with its removal, the story reflects Empire’s deep connection to the project—and the important role the company played in honoring, preserving, and responsibly concluding this chapter of the city’s architectural history.

A Complex Transformation of the Springfield Municipal Building in Delaware County, PA

Wed, 30 Apr 2025 14:32:38 GMT

Older buildings often face the challenge of keeping up with modern needs, including new technologies, infrastructure, and modern amenities. While a structure may have been built with the latest construction methods and products when it was first completed, time inevitably takes its toll, leading to eventual updating. When this happens, building owners (or committees) must decide between complete demolition or renovation.

In many cases, only specific sections of a building need to be demolished, while others are salvaged and integrated into the new design. One such project is the ongoing renovation of the Springfield Municipal Building in Delaware County, PA, which is undergoing a significant transformation. This project combines both renovation and demolition to create a modern facility that meets current township needs.

A Modern Transformation: Springfield Municipal Building's Revamp

Empire Services was contracted by SJ Thomas to provide building demolition for this unique project. The scope of the work included demolishing key sections of the building to make way for upgrades and additions. While the entire building will not be demolished, only a few sections of the mid-century structure will be removed. The centerpiece of the renovation, the center section, which includes a full basement, will remain.

The demolished sections of the building housed essential municipal departments, including the police department and various municipal offices. This renovation project is especially significant for the police department, which has grown substantially over the decades, expanding from just 5 officers to 30 officers. The new, modern municipal complex will provide ample space for the growing police force while also preserving and renovating the existing spaces within the structure.

A Delicate Demolition Process

The demolition process for this project was executed with precision and care. Empire Services' team utilized a CAT 325 excavator to carefully dismantle the key sections, including the front façade. These sections were delicately hand separated from the remaining section, which preserved the integrity of the remaining structure.

Additionally, specialized equipment, such as a lull lift and bobcat, was utilized to collect and move the debris to designated areas. From there, the debris was loaded onto DVC (an Empire Group affiliate) trailers to be transported to a local disposal facility, ensuring that the debris was disposed of safely and efficiently.

As the Springfield Municipal Building in Delaware County undergoes its transformation, it serves as a prime example of how thoughtful renovation and demolition can revitalize aging structures to meet modern demands. The combination of preserving key areas and demolishing outdated sections allows for a facility that is functional, safe, and capable of adapting to future needs. Empire Services is proud to be part of this important project, providing expert demolition services that contribute to the long-term success of the renovation.

What's New this Spring at Empire Services

Thu, 24 Apr 2025 21:18:56 GMT

Spring is in full swing, and Empire Services has wide a range of exciting projects across Pennsylvania. As a trusted provider of demolition and excavation services, we’re proud to support our clients with precision, safety, and a commitment to excellence. From educational institutions to municipal renovations and industrial work, here’s some project highlights.

Renovating the Gingrich Library at Albright University

Empire Services is thrilled to contribute to the transformation of Albright University’s Gingrich Library in Reading, PA. Our skilled demolition crew has been carefully preparing the building for its new modern façade. The process includes hand demolition and window removal to preserve the integrity of the structure while making room for innovation.

So far, we’ve completed the front exterior demolition, and our team is now working diligently on the rear of the building. Projects like this showcase our ability to blend precision demolition with care, especially when working on structures with unique architectural or institutional value.

Historic Preservation Meets Precision Demolition in Downtown Reading

A multi-story building in downtown Reading presented a unique challenge. The structure housed a historic façade that was to remain while other sections were to be demolished. The façade was already relocated to this structure from the Reading News building decades ago.

Our team was contracted by the City of Reading to perform an emergency partial demolition of the fatigued roof. Following this critical first step, the city designated only the rear portion of the building for demolition. Our talented crew carried out the job with precision and efficiency, carefully removing the targeted section while preserving the integrity of the remaining structure.

Industrial Expertise: Wastewater Treatment Facility in Northumberland County

Supporting Municipal Upgrades in Delaware County

Empire Services was proud to play a part in the renovation of the Springfield Municipal Building in Delaware County, PA. Our crew successfully completed the exterior demolition of several key building sections, clearing the way for modernization that will benefit the community for years to come.

From emergency to scheduled demolitions, Empire Services brings the experience, equipment, and dedication needed to get the job done right. With summer is right around the corner, we’re excited to continue partnering with clients across Pennsylvania and beyond.

Precision Emergency Demolition: Preserving History at Penn Street

Mon, 24 Mar 2025 13:31:02 GMT

A Historic Facade at Risk

The building on Penn Street in Reading, PA, where we recently performed a partial emergency demolition, had a distinctive façade that needed special care. Originally part of the Reading News Building constructed in 1912, this façade was relocated to its current spot in 1982 as part of a preservation initiative. Empire Services is very familiar with this historic part of the building since they teamed up with Eshbach Brothers to carefully reinstall the façade. The façade is a beautiful example of beaux-arts architecture, featuring intricate details like pendant grapes and dentils, adding elegance and character to the downtown area.

Unfortunately, time had taken its toll on the building. A partial roof collapse threatened the integrity of the entire structure, causing the exterior wall to buckle. To make matters worse, the building’s rooftop HVAC duct system was adding significant weight, accelerating the collapse and increasing the risk of further damage to the structure.

The Challenge of Preserving History

The City of Reading made it clear that preserving the historic façade was a priority. Given the delicate nature of the situation, Empire Services had to act quickly but with great care. The team needed to remove the collapsing roof, relieve pressure from the structure, and prevent further damage to the building. This was not a typical demolition; it required a strategic and methodical approach, which is where our specialized equipment and experience came into play.

Precision Demolition with Heavy Equipment

To carefully remove the failing roof and minimize the risk of damaging the structure, Empire Services utilized two 160-ton hydraulic truck cranes, one equipped with a skid pan and the other a personnel basket. With no direct access to the building and limited movement due to the challenging location, our crew performed the demolition work from high above.

The first task was to remove the large-diameter ductwork that was contributing to the collapse. Rigging the ductwork was tricky, but our experienced team worked efficiently. We carefully cut the ductwork free and used one crane to lift and lower it to the ground, eliminating the added weight that was exacerbating the roof’s failure.

A Delicate Process of Removal

Once the duct work was safely removed, we shifted focus to the roof. Our team began sectioning the damaged roof, demolishing the roof structure from a crane suspended personnel basket while loading debris into a second crane suspended skid pan for removal. This process was intricate and required a high level of skill to ensure that no damage was done to the remaining structure and façade.

Working from a crane suspended basket added to the complexity of the task. Restricted movement and the need for precise execution meant that every action had to be planned and coordinated. It was a delicate process, but Empire Services' team had the experience and skill to execute the demolition with the care required.

At Empire Services, we pride ourselves on our ability to handle emergency demolitions that involve both safety and historical preservation. The successful partial emergency demolition of the building on Penn Street in Reading, PA, is a testament to our commitment to quality, precision, and care. By utilizing specialized equipment, strategic planning, and expert teamwork, we were able to safely remove the collapsing roof while preserving the historic façade for future generations to enjoy.

Transforming Learning Spaces: Interior Demolition at Renaissance Academy

Mon, 17 Feb 2025 20:27:43 GMT

When it comes to school renovations, many districts and charter schools prefer to schedule these projects during the summer months. This ensures that students and faculty are not disrupted. However, there are instances where a renovation needs to happen during the school year due to a pressing need. Renaissance Academy in Montgomery County, PA, found itself in such a situation as it needed more space to accommodate its students. Empire Services is proud to be part of this transformation, providing expert interior demolition services to help Renaissance create the space they need to continue offering high-quality education.

A Strategic Collaboration for Growth

Empire Services was contracted by Paul Risk Construction to handle the interior demolition in specific areas of the school building in multiple phases creating additional learning environments. The renovation strategy involved converting existing offices into modern science labs and spacious classrooms. Given that the project took place during the school year, our team worked in close coordination with other trades to stay on schedule and maintain a smooth workflow.

Precision Demolition for a Better Learning Environment

Renovating a school building requires careful attention to detail, especially when dealing with older structures. At Renaissance Academy, a variety of materials and interior features required removal making way for new classrooms and state-of-the-art science labs. The first two phases focused on basic core and shell demolition. Our team worked meticulously to remove the materials and interior features, including ceilings, gypsum and plaster walls, windows, doors, a glass storefront, and even a vault door. Our team took great care to remove them safely and efficiently, ensuring that the renovation could proceed without delay. Once this was completed, we moved on to concrete removal for the new plumbing upgrades. Before the first concrete slab was cut, we performed a subsurface investigation/scanning to ensure there were no obstacles. With no issues found, our crew proceeded with cutting the concrete in preparation for the final phase of the renovation.

Why Choose Empire Services for School Demolition Projects?

At Empire Services, we understand that school renovations require a high level of precision and coordination. We have extensive experience working on educational institutions in Eastern Pennsylvania, especially for schools that need to continue operations while undergoing significant changes. Our team works closely with contractors, school administrators, and other stakeholders to ensure that all demolition is carried out safely, on time, and in line with the project’s vision.

Our commitment to quality and our ability to work within the constraints of a school environment sets us apart. Whether it’s a small renovation or a larger-scale project, Empire Services has the expertise to handle the demands of school interior demolition.

If you’re planning a school renovation, whether it’s for a charter school, district school, or other educational institution , trust Empire Services to deliver the interior demolition services that make a difference. With our experience and expertise, we’ll ensure your project goes smoothly from start to finish. Contact us today to learn more!

Emergency Demolition: Protecting Your Property and Community When Disaster Strikes

Wed, 29 Jan 2025 14:50:26 GMT

No one ever expects an emergency demolition situation—until it happens. Whether it’s a roof that suddenly caves in, walls that are c rumbling under the weight of age , or the aftermath of a fire or severe weather event, the need for emergency demolition can arise without warning. That’s why having a reliable, experienced demolition company ready to respond quickly is essential.

The Importance of Emergency Demolition

Emergency demolition isn’t just about tearing down a building—it’s about protecting lives, preventing further damage, and restoring safety. It a crucial service that:

Prevents Further Structural Damage
A compromised building can continue to degrade, putting nearby structures at risk. Emergency demolition ensures that the damage doesn’t spread, protecting neighboring buildings and infrastructure.
Protects Vehicles and Property
If a building is on the verge of collapsing, vehicles parked nearby could be damaged or destroyed. Quick removal of the unstable structure can prevent damage to cars, trucks, or any other property within the immediate vicinity.
Safeguards Utilities and Infrastructure
Collapsing buildings can damage essential utilities like gas lines, water mains, or electrical systems. Emergency demolition minimizes the risk of utility disruptions and potential hazards like fires or flooding.
Ensures Public Safety
Above all, the most important reason for emergency demolition is to protect people. A dangerous building could pose a serious threat to pedestrians, workers, or anyone in the area. By swiftly removing it, we reduce the risk of injuries or worse.

How Empire Services Can Help

At Empire Services, we specialize in providing fast, efficient, and safe emergency demolition services. We are contracted by municipalities to demolish a variety of structures – day or night. Our team has demolished old factories, abandoned buildings, and fire-damaged structures. We utilize the latest equipment to safely dismantle and clear hazardous structures, no matter how complex or unstable.

Our emergency demolition services include:

Rapid assessment and response
Safe and thorough demolition of unstable structures
Protection of surrounding property, vehicles, and utilities
Site clearing and debris removal
Comprehensive safety measures to protect the public

We’re Ready to Respond

If you’re dealing with a dangerous structure that needs immediate attention, don’t wait for further damage. Contact Empire Services today to discuss our emergency demolition service.

A Look Back at 2024

Mon, 16 Dec 2024 16:12:12 GMT

Select Demolition of an Asphalt Storage Tank

No matter the type of storage tank, we take them all down. Our team dismantled a 75-foot asphalt pre-heating tank at a roofing manufacturer. The team torch cut each section of the tank for safe and efficient removal, since the tank was in proximity to external piping and other tanks.

Emergency Demolition of a Church Steeple

Empire Services partnered with the City of Reading to expertly handle the demolition of an unstable structure. Our team hand demolished St. Cecilia’s church steeple , averting a potential collapse.

Utilizing a 135-foot personal lift along with a 50-ton all-terrain crane outfitted with a skid pan to accept and lower debris, we started with the stone pillars followed by the collapsed roof that created the original damage. Once removed, the affected steeple walls were demolished to a level of stability allowing for new roof construction.

Demolition of a Restaurant

A local restaurant is embracing the trend of modernization with a complete rebuild, thanks to Empire Services. Partnering with JBS Allphase Construction, Empire Services was contracted to demolish the existing structure to make way for a brand-new, energy-efficient restaurant. The original building, which had stood for about 30 years, was located at a busy intersection, presenting unique challenges and opportunities for the redevelopment.

The restaurant demolition was carried out with environmental sustainability in mind. Given the location adjacent to a state highway, special care was taken to leave the front wall of the building intact as long as possible. This helped in controlling fugitive emissions and managing demolition debris effectively. Additionally, all concrete and stone removed from the site, approximately 100 cubic yards worth, were recycled.

Demolition of a Water Storage Tank

We just completed a demolition project that involved the removal of several structures surrounded by homes in a quaint Bucks County neighborhood. Our team demolished a large 500,000-gallon above ground water storage tank . The entire tank was demolished to grade, including the concrete foundation and exterior foundation ring. Using a Hitachi 350 UHD excavator equipped with a shear, we efficiently demolished the steel tank.

Next, the booster pump building came down, which included the structure’s contents, the concrete floor and foundations. This portion of the project required careful excavation , and our team used a CAT 325 excavator equipped with a hammer and bucket to break up and remove the foundations, ensuring a clean slate for the next phase of development. Alongside the demolition of the tank and pump building, we also removed a network of piping from the tank to the booster pump building, meter pits, and vaults. This involved excavation, pipe removal, and backfilling the area upon completion.

At Empire Services, we are thankful for the opportunity to work on these and all other projects, enabling us to help our customers achieve their goals. We are also thankful for our team and everyone who works behind the scenes to keep Empire Services operating safely and efficiently. We look forward to the projects we will be working on in 2025!

A Restaurant Evolves with Help from Empire Services

Wed, 04 Dec 2024 14:36:52 GMT

In recent years, restaurants have been undergoing a significant transformation, evolving from the familiar conventional styles to more modern designs. To keep up with changing customer preferences and demands, many chains are redesigning their locations to enhance the customer experience. This includes making their spaces more energy-efficient, reducing wait times, and catering to the rise of digital orders.

A Shift Towards Modern, Energy-Efficient Designs

The future of dining is changing, and it’s not just about the food. Restaurant chains are investing in new building designs that reflect a more modern and sustainable approach. This includes features such as sleek, futuristic exteriors, double drive-thrus for faster service, and designated parking spots for customers who place mobile orders. These innovations aim to reduce congestion, improve operational efficiency, and enhance overall convenience.

Local Restaurant Joins the Trend

A local restaurant is embracing this trend with a complete rebuild, thanks to Empire Services. Partnering with JBS Allphase Construction, Empire Services was contracted to demolish the existing structure to make way for a brand-new, energy-efficient restaurant. The original building, which had stood for about 30 years, was located at a busy intersection, presenting unique challenges and opportunities for the redevelopment.

Sustainable Demolition Practices

Additionally, all concrete and stone removed from the site, approximately 100 cubic yards worth, were recycled. These materials were transported to recycling or reuse facilities by DVC (an affiliate company), ensuring that the old building’s materials found new life in other projects.

The restaurant industry is evolving rapidly, and businesses that want to stay ahead of the curve must embrace change. From energy-efficient designs to streamlined customer experiences, modern restaurant concepts are reshaping the way we dine out. Empire Services played a key role in this transformation, creating a space that is now ready for a complete rebuild. Contact us today to learn how we can help you achieve your project goals quickly and efficiently!

Precision Demolition in Tight Spaces: Tackling a Complex Project in Bucks County

Tue, 12 Nov 2024 15:21:58 GMT

When it comes to demolition, no two sites are the same. Each project presents unique challenges that require strategic approaches to ensure efficient, safe, and environmentally responsible removal of structures. This is especially true in urban areas or tight spaces, where job sites are often surrounded by buildings or residential areas. Empire Services has the experience and resources to handle these complex demolition projects with precision and care, as demonstrated in a recently completed project adjacent to a residential neighborhood in Bucks County, PA.

Demolition Project Overview

This particular demolition job involved the removal of several structures, which included a massive water tank, a booster pump building, and a network of piping surrounded by homes in a quaint Bucks County neighborhood. The proximity of residential buildings meant that we needed to plan the demolition carefully to minimize any disruption or risk to surrounding properties.

Empire Services provided complete site demolition services from top to bottom, including recycling and salvaging valuable materials, ensuring that the entire project was completed with minimal environmental impact.

Key Components of the Demolition Project

1. Water Tank Demolition

The most significant structure on this job site was the large 500,000-gallon above ground water storage tank. The entire tank was demolished to grade, including the concrete foundation and exterior foundation ring. Using a Hitachi 350 UHD excavator equipped with a shear, we efficiently demolished the steel tank. The tank’s size and the need for precision cutting meant we had to use specialized equipment to safely take it down while minimizing debris and dust in the surrounding neighborhood.

2. Booster Pump Building and Foundations

The next challenge involved removing the booster pump building, which included the structure’s contents, the concrete floor and foundations. This portion of the project required careful excavation , and our team used a CAT 325 excavator equipped with a hammer and bucket to break up and remove the foundations, ensuring a clean slate for the next phase of development.

3. Piping and Vault Removal

Alongside the demolition of the tank and pump building, we also removed a network of piping from the tank to the booster pump building, meter pits, and vaults. This involved excavation, pipe removal, and backfilling the area upon completion. A process that required careful planning, preventing damage to existing underground utilities ensuring an obstacle-free operation for the new construction.

Recycling and Disposal

At Empire Services, we believe in sustainable demolition practices. We worked closely with our affiliate company DVC to transport materials to designated facilities.

This project is just one example of how Empire Services excels at tackling complex and challenging demolition jobs. Whether you're dealing with a tight urban space, a variety of materials, or large structures, our team has the experience and equipment to handle the job safely and efficiently. Contact us today to learn how your next project will benefit from our services!

Revitalizing Spring City: Empire Services’ Expert Approach to Safe and Sustainable Demolition

Tue, 29 Oct 2024 16:19:50 GMT

Demolition is a crucial process that helps transform properties, making way for new structures or ensuring public safety. Whether it’s making way for modern construction or eliminating outdated facilities, our expertise at Empire Services is evident in every project. We recently removed storage tanks that served their purpose.

A Case Study: Revitalizing Spring City

In a small town with rich industrial roots, Empire Services recently undertook a challenging demolition project for Spring City Borough. The project involved removing three outdated “railcars” that had been converted into aboveground storage tanks (8,000 gallons each) adjacent to a trailhead. These tanks had served the borough for decades, originally storing AC20 asphalt sealer for road maintenance. However, as local preferences shifted towards asphalt paving over the traditional tar and chip method, these tanks became obsolete.

The Demolition Process

The demolition was not without its challenges. Our skilled crew used a CAT 325 excavator equipped with a shear, along with a bucket and grapple, to ensure a safe and efficient operation. The first step in the demolition process involved solidifying any remaining flowable material within the tanks. We carefully cut open the tops of the tanks and introduced an inert agent to solidify the material, to prevent any spills during removal. The solidified material was then loaded into roll-off containers and transported to a designated disposal facility.

Once the tanks were emptied, they were scraped and cleaned to prepare for complete demolition. The meticulous nature of this task was essential to maintain site integrity.

Recycling and Environmental Responsibility

After removing the tanks and their pedestals, we focused on recycling as much material as possible. For this project, we successfully recycled five tons of steel and 10 cubic yards of concrete, showcasing our commitment to sustainable practices. At Empire Services, we prioritize recycling and minimizing waste in all our demolition projects.

Expert Tank Demolition

With extensive experience in storage tank removals—particularly those containing residual waste—Empire Services stands out as a trusted partner in demolition. We collaborated closely with our affiliate, Elk Environmental Services , to ensure safe and effective waste removal throughout the process.

When you need professional demolition services that prioritize safety, efficiency, and environmental responsibility, look no further than Empire Services. Contact us today to learn how we can assist with your next demolition project!

Highlights from the Annual Empire Group Fishing Rodeo

Tue, 15 Oct 2024 19:51:28 GMT

As the leaves change and the air turns crisp, employees of Empire Group eagerly gear up for one of the highlights of the season: the Annual Fishing Rodeo and Picnic. This beloved tradition brings together staff and their families for a day filled with fun, laughter, and community spirit. This year’s event, held on Saturday, October 12th, at the picturesque farm of Todd and Karen O’Neill, truly captured the essence of camaraderie and enjoyment, making it a memorable outing for all involved.

A Beautiful Day for Fishing

Fun for the Whole Family

Delicious Food and Prizes

Building Community

Navigating the Demolition Process: A Guide for Businesses

Thu, 03 Oct 2024 15:00:05 GMT

Updating equipment can be a significant challenge for businesses, particularly when it involves the demolition process. This complex task requires strategic planning and careful execution to minimize disruption and ensure safety for all involved. In this guide, we’ll explore the key aspects of the demolition process and emphasize the importance of choosing the right demolition company.

Key Steps in the Demolition Process

The demolition process can be lengthy and multifaceted, but breaking it down into manageable steps can simplify the task:

1. Strategic Planning

Before any physical work begins, thorough planning is essential. This includes:

Assessing the potential impact on daily operations
Preparing staff for the impending disruption

Effective planning ensures a smoother transition during the demolition process.

2. Methodical Removal

The primary goal of any demolition project is to remove equipment with minimal disruption. This involves:

Coordinating demolition activities to avoid peak business hours
Managing traffic in surrounding areas, including streets and parking lots

A well-timed approach can significantly reduce interruptions to your operations.

3. Prioritizing Safety

Safety is the top priority during demolition. Implementing strict safety protocols is crucial, especially when dealing with various materials and heavy machinery. This helps to prevent accidents and ensures a secure working environment for everyone involved.

4. Efficient Logistics Management

Smooth logistics are vital for a successful demolition project. Key considerations include:

Transporting demolition equipment to the job site
Safely removing materials to recycling or disposal facilities

Effective logistics help keep the project on track and minimize delays.

Choosing the Right Demolition Company

Selecting an experienced demolition company can make all the difference in the success of your project. Look for a company with a proven track record in dismantling industrial equipment while prioritizing safety and minimal disruption. At Empire Services, we specialize in these types of projects, having successfully demolished tanks, piping, automated systems, and more from Pennsylvania to Maryland.

Case Study: Dismantling an Automated System

One of our recent projects involved dismantling an automated system for a local truck body manufacturer. This system was crucial to their manufacturing process, requiring seamless operation every day. Here’s how we approached this challenge:

Advanced Tools and Machinery: Our skilled team utilized a variety of dismantling tools, including aerial lifts and forklifts, to ensure both efficiency and safety throughout the process.
Precision Techniques: Acetylene torches were instrumental in our operation, allowing us to slice through steel structures into manageable segments. This precision was particularly important due to the confined workspace, where we had to navigate around stationary production equipment while protecting existing features to remain and the implementation of an involved fire protection program.
Expertise in Action: Our crew’s expertise ensured that we executed the dismantling project with minimal disruption to the manufacturer’s ongoing operations, highlighting our commitment to excellence and safety.

Multiple Projects at a Roofing Manufacturer

This year, our team has also worked on several projects at a roofing manufacturer, including:

Removing an Asphalt Pre-Heating Storage Vessel: This 75-foot tank required strategic planning due to its proximity to existing piping and other tanks, showcasing our ability to manage complex projects effectively.

While the demolition process can be challenging, it can be successfully managed with careful planning, precise execution, and a skilled demolition team. At Empire Services, we are dedicated to providing safe and efficient demolition solutions tailored to the unique needs of each business. If you're considering an equipment update and need expert demolition services, contact us today to learn what we can do for your company!

Highlights from Empire Group's Annual Golf Classic

Fri, 13 Sep 2024 18:22:55 GMT

The beloved annual Empire Group Golf Classic was held on September 7, 2024, at Willow Hollow Golf Course in Leesport, PA. It was a cool start with 104 of the finest golfers from Berks County playing in this fun event. There was a shot gun start at 7:00 AM and all the action was completed by 11:30 AM – just in time for the rain! Once the match was over, we enjoyed a wonderful lunch of fried chicken, cold cuts, pierogies, baked beans, potato salad and various side dishes, snacks and drinks. After the luncheon, the following winners were announced.

Team Winners

First Place: Val Santo, Ray Plummer, Dave Albright, and Mike Wagner with a score of 17 under par – an excellent score!

Second Place : Jey Newswanger, Matt Gordon, Brian Leupold, and Nick Shade. The team had a score of 12 under par – an awesome score!

Third Place: Carl Sottosanti, John Sottosanti, Sebastian Sottosanti, and Giuseppe Napoli with a score of 11 under par – great playing guys!

Closest to the Pin Hole Winners

Kenny Freil Hole #3 – 15'

Brian Leupold Hole #5 – 5' 7"

Val Santo Hole #6 – 8' 7"

Dave Albright Hole #9 – 4' 11"

Chris Stephens Hole # 14 – 3' 6"

The Longest Drive Winner

Rich Reinhart Hole #16

Thanks to everyone who made this amazing event possible and a special thanks to Todd & Karen O’Neill and Harry & Cathy O’Neill – without them we could not do this every year! Stay tuned for next year’s date!

The Historical Collapse of An Industrial Building: A Swift Response by Empire Services

Wed, 11 Sep 2024 18:38:53 GMT

Industrial buildings across the United States once stood as icons of manufacturing, particularly during the American Industrial Revolution. These structures, designed to meet growing industrial demands, have had mixed outcomes. Some have been successfully refurbished and repurposed, while others have fallen into neglect. This was the case for the old Reading Clothing Manufacturing Company in Reading, PA. This historic site, once bustling with various manufacturing operations, deteriorated significantly over the years. On August 22, 2024, the building facing Third Street partially collapsed, prompting an urgent response to protect the neighboring community and the adjacent, active railroad line.

A Legacy of Industry

The Reading Clothing Manufacturing Company's history traces back to the late 1800s, reflecting its deep industrial roots. Initially, the Keystone Wagon Company used the property to produce wagons and carriages. With the advent of automobiles, Keystone shifted to making automobile bodies before merging with the Daniels Motor Car Company in 1920. However, Daniels sold the property in 1924.

In 1930, the Reading Clothing Manufacturing Company acquired the building, focusing on clothing production. By 1954, Chadbourn Gotham, Inc. had moved in, using the northern wing to produce lingerie. The building later hosted various tenants, including the M. J. Earl Paper Company, known for its wallpaper. The company relocated to Third Street in 1984. Following M. J. Earl's death in 2013, the property changed hands several times but has remained vacant since then.

Empire Services to the Rescue

On the night of August 22, 2024, the City of Reading Building and Trades Department contracted Empire Services to stabilize the deteriorating structure. The collapse of the second and third floors had disrupted an active rail line, necessitating immediate action. Empire Services' team quickly began a partial demolition to stabilize the building. Their approach included removing the third-story wall adjacent to the railroad tracks and carefully dismantling the remaining unstable sections of the building.

Overcoming Demolition Challenges

Demolishing a building that has already suffered significant collapse poses numerous challenges. The primary concern is maintaining the structural integrity of the surrounding areas while not causing further instability. In this case, the Empire Services crew had to be exceptionally careful to avoid causing additional damage to adjacent sections of the buildings, which had also suffered deterioration. They used a John Deere 450 ultra-high reach excavator to meticulously dismantle the Third Street sections. The demolition site was located between a dead end and a side street, both were already narrow with parked cars exacerbating this issue. DVC , an Empire Group affiliate, skillfully delivered the equipment by backing the trailer down Third Street. A bobcat was used to clear debris from the site and surrounding streets, depositing it within the first-floor shell of the building for the building owner to dispose.

Empire Services' expertise in emergency demolition ensured a rapid response to this urban location. Their ability to quickly mobilize equipment and personnel helped stabilize the collapsed structure, preventing further damage and safeguarding public safety. The Third Street building, a relic of America's industrial past, underscores the importance of timely maintenance and intervention to prevent additional damage and protect the community. Contact us today to learn more!

Back-to-School and Demolition Excellence with Empire Services

Fri, 16 Aug 2024 18:07:14 GMT

Back-to-school season is in full swing this month! Empire Services is proud to showcase our extensive demolition, civil works, and excavation services for area schools, colleges, and universities. Our efforts have helped get these educational institutions ready for a successful academic year.

Tackling School Projects with Expertise

School projects present unique challenges, requiring careful planning and precise execution. Each site demands tailored strategies to mobilize equipment and resources without damaging the property. As many projects are scheduled during the summer break, we often face tight deadlines and phased work plans.

Our Diverse Portfolio

Empire Services has a proven track record of completing various projects, from interior and exterior demolition to grading, foundations, utilities , and paving. Our recent work spans a broad range of educational facilities, including:

Reading Area Community College , Reading, PA
Northampton Elementary School , Northampton, PA
Phoenixville High School , Phoenixville, PA
North Coventry Elementary School , Pottstown, PA
Wilson High School , Reading, PA
Chatham Park Elementary School , Havertown, PA
Pennsylvania State University , Harrisburg, PA
Perkiomen Valley High School , Collegeville, PA
Glenside Elementary School , Reading, PA
Wyomissing Hills Elementary Center , Wyomissing, PA
Governor Mifflin High School , Shillington, PA
Northwest Elementary School , Reading, PA
12th & Marion Elementary School , Reading, PA
10th & Green Elementary School , Reading, PA
Reading High School , Reading, PA
10th & Penn Elementary School , Reading, PA

Expert Solutions for Every Challenge

Every project comes with its own set of limitations and challenges, requiring innovative and strategic solutions. Empire Services leverages our experience and advanced equipment to navigate tight spaces and adhere to aggressive schedules. Our dedication to excellence, professionalism, and high-quality craftsmanship is evident in every educational facility project we undertake.

As we look forward to future school projects, we are excited to contribute to the success of these educational institutions. Here’s to another great school year, supported by the skilled team at Empire Services!

What's New at Empire Services?

Fri, 26 Jul 2024 15:01:45 GMT

T his summer, despite the scorching heat, Empire Services remains committed to delivering top-notch demolition and excavation services essential for our clients' projects. Check out these recent project highlights below.

Demolishing a Multi-Story Structure

Providing Shutdown Services

Demolishing a Vertical Storage Tank

At Empire Services, we are thankful for the opportunity to work on these and all other projects, enabling us to help our customers achieve their project goals. We look forward to the projects we will be working on as summer winds down!

The Power of Civil Works and Excavation at Empire Services

Mon, 15 Jul 2024 19:17:28 GMT

When a company offers a wide range of services, it's a testament to their skilled workforce capable of handling every aspect of a job. Often, these services are interconnected. For instance, a plumbing company might also provide heating and cooling services, essential systems for any home or business. By bundling these services, customers avoid the hassle of hiring multiple contractors, which can lead to scheduling conflicts and extra expenses. It's a convenient, one-stop solution that simplifies life.

However, there are also lesser-known service combinations that offer significant benefits. Take Empire Services, for example, which not only specializes in demolition but also excels in civil work. But how do these services complement each other?

Excavation & Civil Work

While Empire Services is renowned for demolition, many are unaware of our expertise in civil work. Civil work involves crucial excavation processes necessary for new developments and heavy construction. It encompasses earthwork essential for setting up utilities, storm sewers, and streets.

Our comprehensive excavation capabilities include:

Roadway and sidewalk construction
Sanitary sewer line installation
Storm sewer and retention pond construction
Water main and gas line installation
Land clearing
Soil erosion and sedimentation control

Recent Civil Projects

Explore some of our recent civil projects below!

Gas Pipeline: Our team installed a gas pipeline and a concrete pad for a volunteer fire department’s new generator in York County, PA. At left, our team has started to backfill the trench with crushed stone. At right, the completed concrete pad for the generator.

Storm Sewer System Installation: The team spearheaded the installation of a new storm sewer system at Allentown Metal Works, further enhancing the site's infrastructure. Below at left, our team excavates for seven inlets and at right, four of the seven inlets installed.

Bridge Installation: Our team demolished and removed an existing culvert in Bucks County to make way for the new one. Below, a 200-ton hydraulic crane lifts the first of four 38,000-pound precast box culvert sections onto six precast footers.

When you have a property that needs to be building ready or a road upgraded, our trained crews and advanced equipment deliver superior results. Contact us today to learn more about our civil works services!

Park Improvements to Create More Summer Fun in Pennsylvania

Mon, 01 Jul 2024 13:55:28 GMT

Pennsylvania, renowned for its rich history and stunning landscapes, boasts a variety of parks catering to nature enthusiasts and history buffs alike. As well as providing opportunities for outdoor activities and exercise, these green spaces also serve as gateways to the region's rich history. Many of these parks have humble beginnings, often emerging from popular sites, family estates, or repurposed abandoned properties. Over time, they have evolved into vibrant recreational areas adorned with playgrounds, tranquil walking trails, and refreshing splash pads.

Empire Services: Enhancing Reading's Parks

Empire Services has played a role in enhancing parks across Reading and beyond. Their contributions to park improvements have created safer, more enjoyable environments for families to gather, play, and connect with nature. From upgrading facilities to maintaining green spaces and implementing innovative features like splash pads, Empire Services has helped transform parks into vibrant centers of community life. Let’s take a look at a few of them.

City Park Enhancements

City Park , located near 11th and Walnut Streets in Reading, underwent significant improvements thanks to Empire Services. The project included the installation of an all-inclusive playground and a splash pad. As part of the preparation for these new amenities, utilities were upgraded and the site was carefully prepared. Adding fencing and improved walking trails enhanced the park's appeal and accessibility.

Baer Park Upgrades

Empire Services also contributed to improvements at Baer Park, another cherished space in Reading. The project involved preparing the park for new play areas, including grading and compacting the subgrade for a new concrete splash pad.

Minsi Lake Park Rehabilitation

In partnership with Northampton County Parks and Recreation, Empire Services took part in phase one of the Minsi Lake rehabilitation project in Bangor, PA. The team excavated and prepared for the new paved pedestrian trails, concrete slabs, and foundations for the new restroom structure. Some of the equipment utilized on this unique project included excavators, skid steers, rollers as well as a subcontracted crane service to place the new restroom structure.

As Pennsylvania continues to evolve, its parks will adapt to meet the changing needs of diverse communities. These parks serve as living monuments, preserving the past while embracing the future of recreation and community engagement. Empire Services is grateful to be part of these park improvements, helping to create all-inclusive and safe spaces. We have the equipment and experience to complete these projects no matter the size of the park or the location.

How a Homestead Turned Into a Pastoral Landscape

Wed, 19 Jun 2024 14:00:53 GMT

Living in Eastern Pennsylvania means living amidst history , where every turn reveals a piece of the past. With quaint homesteads and bustling developments, the region's landscape tells a story of transformation. Each property is an example of change. In Quakertown, Pennsylvania , a homestead underwent such a transformation.

Originally a farmhouse and a two-story banked barn, the property in Quakertown bore witness to centuries of evolution. Over time, the farmhouse blended old-world charm with modern comforts. While the original foundation and materials remained, additions like a modern kitchen, updated baths, and a sunroom with UV glass breathed new life into the homestead. Meanwhile, the barn evolved from housing livestock to hosting a heated workshop and an office/storage area. Yet, no one wanted this unique property. The property was auctioned off in 2018 and purchased by an energy company.

With new ownership came new plans, and the decision was made to clear the compromised structures from the land. Empire Services was contracted by Adelphia Gateway, LLC, with the task of demolishing both the farmhouse and the barn. The location of the property complicated the demolition process. It was situated on a busy, winding road with powerlines. Traffic control was necessary to ensure safe entry and exit from the jobsite.

The old barn was the first structure to be demolished using a 345 excavator equipped with a rotating grapple. Removing the barn and clearing the area created better access to the site. The focus then turned to the farmhouse and other structures. The debris was transported to a nearby landfill by DVC , an Empire Group affiliate. After all the debris was removed, the basement of the house was filled with recycled clean stone from the house and barn. The project was completed with final topsoil restoration and seeding.

Despite the limited access and traffic control challenges, the property was restored to a pastoral landscape. No matter the age of the property or its layout, Empire Services has the experience and equipment to complete the job safely and efficiently.

Summer Approaches: Empire Service Project Highlights

Wed, 29 May 2024 18:36:19 GMT

With the arrival of summer around the corner, Empire Services reflects on a series of successful demolition, site, and civil projects completed with strategic finesse. Let's take a look at some highlights of our recent endeavors.

Securing Safety with Pallet Rack Straps

Revitalizing the First Tee

Efficient Vaporizer Dismantling

Emergency Demolition of a Steeple

The Hand Demolition of St. Cecilia Church Steeple

Thu, 16 May 2024 12:53:50 GMT

In cities nationwide, blighted properties stand as stark reminders of bygone eras—once bustling homes, factories, or churches now left abandoned for various reasons. Over time, these structures deteriorate, sometimes to the point of posing risks to public safety. When such conditions arise, emergency demolition becomes imperative. Yet, executing a safe demolition, particularly in densely populated urban areas, demands meticulous planning to mitigate disruptions and dangers to the community.

One recent example of this is the fate of St. Cecilia Church in Reading, PA. Abandoned for over a decade, the church exhibited signs of decay that worsened over time with cracked walls and shattered windows in need of immediate attention. Erected in 1892 by Theodore Ignatius Heizmann in memory of his mother, Mary Cecilia Heizmann, the church stands at a busy intersection, complicating the demolition process due to limited space for equipment maneuvering.

The dangerous state of the church became evident when the steeple roof collapsed, and the stone structure showed signs of imminent failure, threatening both traffic flow and public safety. In response, the City of Reading contracted Empire Services to demolish the church steeple to the roofline. Using a 135-foot boom man lift and a 50-ton all-terrain crane with skid pan, our skilled crew hand demolished the steeple roof, starting with the removal of the stone pillars. The collapsed roofing section was then removed to prevent further damage of the steeple walls. Subsequently, weakened sections of the walls were systematically removed down to a point where the steeple was deemed stable.

A few challenges were encountered during the demolition process, notably the need to prevent large debris from falling onto the sidewalk or street. Additionally, high-tension wires and electrical cables within 12 feet of the steeple added complexity to the operation. However, our experienced team managed to hand demolish the steeple without disturbing the wires and adjacent structures. DVC , an Empire Group affiliate, transported the debris to a recycling facility for proper reuse.

The successful demolition of St. Cecilia Church steeple is a shining example of meticulous planning and precise execution, highlighting the paramount importance of ensuring public safety while safeguarding the essence of urban communities. This achievement not only underscores Empire Services' unparalleled expertise in emergency demolition within urban landscapes but also serves as an example of demolition excellence.

Understanding LEED Demolition Requirements: Building a Sustainable Future

Mon, 15 Apr 2024 18:06:29 GMT

In our pursuit of sustainable development, the importance of environmentally conscious practices in construction and demolition cannot be overstated. LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) certification has become a hallmark for sustainable buildings, promoting energy efficiency, water conservation, and healthier indoor environments. However, LEED doesn't just focus on construction; it also extends its principles to demolition processes. Let’s take a look at key LEED demolition requirements and how they contribute to a greener future.

Why Demolition Matters

When we think about sustainability in construction, the demolition phase often gets overlooked. However, it's a crucial aspect of the building lifecycle. By integrating sustainable practices into demolition processes, we can minimize adverse effects and pave the way for an eco-friendlier approach to urban development.

LEED Demolition Requirements

LEED provides guidelines and criteria for sustainable demolition through its Building Design and Construction (BD+C) rating system. These requirements focus on several key areas:

Energy Efficiency: Sustainable demolition also addresses energy efficiency considerations. This may involve deconstructing buildings in a manner that minimizes energy consumption and optimizing transportation routes to reduce fuel emissions. Additionally, salvaging materials for reuse can offset the energy required to produce new construction materials, further enhancing the project's sustainability credentials.

Incorporating sustainable practices into demolition processes is essential for building a more sustainable future. LEED demolition requirements provide a comprehensive framework for minimizing waste, protecting the environment, and promoting resource efficiency. By embracing these guidelines, demolition (and construction) professionals can play a vital role in advancing sustainability and creating healthier, more resilient communities for future generations. At Empire Services, we strive to reduce our environmental footprint by meeting LEED demolition requirements.

Helping a Philadelphia Golf Course Improve their First Tee

Mon, 08 Apr 2024 19:46:35 GMT

Spring is here, and the start of a new construction season. Whether a new building or an addition, the sound of bulldozers and excavators fills the air. It’s also the time of year when golf courses open for the season in Pennsylvania. As golf courses prepare for the season, many undergo renovations. For a Philadelphia golf course, this was the case. Empire Services is helping with the expansion of their first tee by providing earthwork and site demolition.

This golf course has deep roots in Pennsylvania. In fact, Pennsylvania has a rich golf history. The oldest golf course in continuous use in the United States is Foxburg Country Club in Clarion County. Foxburg Country Club was founded by Joseph Fox in 1887. According to local legend, Fox designed the course after The Old Course at St. Andrews and helped to spread the game across the state. In 1874, Fox went to England with the All-American Cricket team to play in a cricket tournament. One of the matches was in Edinburgh, Scotland.

While in Scotland, he visited St. Andrew’s to watch some golf and became an instant fan of the sport. He had Old Tom Morris, the golf pro at St. Andrew’s, teach him the game and purchased golf clubs and “ gutta-percha ” balls (golf balls) to bring to America. Once home, Fox created an eight-hole course around his summer estates. He then created a more spacious five-hole course, which would become Foxburg Country Club. After the creation of Foxburg Country Club, golf courses began popping up all over Pennsylvania.

One of them is a golf course in Philadelphia County, where Empire Services is assisting with the expansion of their first tee, which houses the pro shop and restaurant. The project began with the demolition of sidewalks and the concrete building pad. The earthwork began as soon as the debris was cleared away. Since the first tee was built on urban fill, there was a need for dynamic compaction caissons. Our crew prepared the area for them plus excavated new foundations. They will also install a storm sewer to accommodate the renovation. The last step will be paving the entry road.

With the arrival of spring and the onset of construction season, we eagerly anticipate the completion of this project, poised to elevate the golfing experience at the course. Leveraging our team's expertise in earthwork and site demolition, we are laying the groundwork for the expansion and ushering in a new chapter in the golf course's heritage.

Continuing the Transformation of Allentown Metal Works

Mon, 11 Mar 2024 19:16:43 GMT

The transformation of Allentown Metal Works into a contemporary production facility is underway, facilitated by Marcon Properties, LLC. This property holds historical significance, tracing its roots back to the early 20th century when Samuel Traylor's Traylor Engineering laid its foundation in 1902. Over the years, it became synonymous with producing heavy-duty steel components pivotal in industries like mining, construction, and concrete. Also, it housed a Mack Trucks plant, further enriching its industrial heritage.

With the help of Marcon Properties, LLC, the site is poised for a renaissance, finding renewed purpose under Eastern Exterior Wall Systems. In collaboration with Alvin H. Butz, Inc ., Empire Services has been at the forefront of this transformation since 2022.

Empire Services initially engaged in demolition works as contracted by the Allentown Economic Development Corporation. Following a partial roof collapse in building A, they swiftly moved to demolish its top floor, setting the stage for subsequent redevelopment efforts. Later, with Alvin H. Butz, Inc., Empire Services spearheaded selective demolition and excavation tasks, laying the groundwork for the site's revitalization. Additionally, Empire Services helped budget, plan, and value-engineer the project with Alvin H. Butz, Inc.

Taking It Down to Its Shell

With the existing structures deemed stable, they repurposed existing materials and infrastructure. The renovation journey commenced in October 2022, initially focusing on the smaller building. By mid-January 2023, significant progress had been achieved, with the 50,000-square-foot structure stripped down to its shell.

The renovation encompassed a comprehensive overhaul involving the removal of windows, roofing, mechanicals, utilities, and more. Structural integrity concerns necessitated the removal of numerous roof purlins, which had succumbed to wood deterioration during the site's decade-long hiatus. Mechanical equipment pits underwent meticulous clearance, paving the way for new concrete slabs atop crushed concrete and clean stone infills.

Steel Demolition & Civil Work

Empire Services' involvement extends beyond demolition to encompass intricate steel demolition and civil works. Recent engineering assessments identified sections of supporting steel beams, columns, and crane rails unfit for reuse. Employing precision torch-cutting techniques, Empire Services adeptly disassembled and transported these components. Additionally, they are spearheading the installation of a new storm sewer system featuring seven inlets, further enhancing the site's infrastructure.

Having dedicated over a year to the Allentown Metal Works site, Empire Services' efforts have been instrumental in reshaping its landscape. Witnessing the transformation of this historical manufacturing site is a testament to the power of revitalization. As the site prepares to embrace its new role in manufacturing, it brings new opportunities and employment prospects, strengthening Allentown's industrial legacy.

What's New this Winter at Empire Services

Tue, 27 Feb 2024 14:55:27 GMT

It's hard to believe that spring is just around the corner. Empire Services completed a variety of demolition, site, and civil projects. Each one required a strategic solution to achieve successful results. Let’s take a look at some project highlights from the past few months.

The Work Continues at Allentown Metal Works!

An engineering review recently determined that some of the supporting steel beams, columns, and crane rails could not be reused. Our team skillfully torch cut them into manageable pieces for removal and transport.

A Busy Snow Day for Empire Services

After a few small snowstorms in January, we finally got a substantial amount of snow during the February 13th snow storm. The snow fall totals in Berks County ranged from 5 to 10 inches. The Empire Services crew along with DVC (an Empire Group affiliate) were hard at work providing exceptional snow removal at various parking lots all over Berks County.

Making Way for a Concrete Bridge

We recently demolished a steel bridge in Allentown, PA to make way for a new concrete bridge. The bridge deck was removed using an acetylene torch setup. As each piece was cut away, a crane carefully hoisted it from its perch to the designated disassembly area. Once separated from the bridge, the trusses were deconstructed into manageable pieces, ready for transport.

Dismantling an Automated System

We undertook the task of dismantling a local truck body manufacturer's current automated system. This automated system, serving as the backbone of their manufacturing process, needed to operate seamlessly every day. To carry out the dismantling, the Empire Services crew utilized an array of dismantling tools and machinery, including aerial lifts and a variety of forklifts. The acetylene torch was the primary tool, expertly used to slice the steel structures into manageable segments. The precision of this operation was amplified by the challenges of the confined space and the imperative to maneuver around stationary production equipment. The project was divided into four phases, with the crucial stipulation that the system could only be removed during facility shutdowns to avoid disruptions to daily operations. The entire project is expected to be completed this fall.

It’s a Matter of Truss: A Structural Demolition in Allentown

Mon, 19 Feb 2024 18:04:00 GMT

When we envision trusses, our minds often conjure images of sturdy roofs, providing support and shelter. Yet, the roots of truss design lie not in roofing but in the strength of bridges. Truss bridges with their intricate network of triangular structures, have stood as testament to human ingenuity and engineering since the 19 ^th century. Initially conceived to span vast distances with minimal materials, truss bridges quickly gained popularity since they were economical to assemble. By harnessing the strength of triangles, these bridges distributed weight efficiently. The evolution of truss bridges is evidence of the ever-changing landscape of engineering. Many steel truss bridges have succumbed to the ravages of time and neglect. Thus, demolition is required, making way for newer, more efficient structures. This was the case for Empire Services’ bridge demolition project in Allentown, PA.

The project presented numerous challenges, chief among them being working over water. With the bridge spanning a creek, ensuring the safety of the crew became paramount. Additional safety protocols were implemented, ensuring that each step of the demolition proceeded with caution and precision. The crew were in personnel lifts that kept them above the water while cutting up the bridge.

Bridge Removal: One Piece at a Time

The first order of business was the removal of the bridge deck. A precisely accomplished task using an acetylene torch setup. As each piece was cut away, a crane carefully hoisted it from its perch to the designated disassembly area. With each truss weighing approximately 79,000 pounds, the process demanded meticulous planning and execution. Once separated from the bridge, the trusses were deconstructed into manageable pieces, ready for transport. An excavator loaded the salvaged materials onto DVC (an Empire Group affiliate) trucks, each destined for a new purpose. With sustainability in mind, Empire Services ensured that the steel components were separated for recycling, minimizing waste and maximizing resource efficiency.

As the last remnants of the old bridge were carted away, a sense of renewal hung in the air. In its place would rise a modern bridge made of concrete and steel. The Empire Services demolition of the old truss bridge was more than just the dismantling of steel and wood. It demonstrated the power of adaptation and evolution, a reminder that even the strongest structures must yield to the march of progress.

Precision Dismantling: Navigating Challenges in the Heart of Manufacturing

Tue, 30 Jan 2024 21:09:09 GMT

In the ever-changing world of manufacturing, the integration of automated systems is often crucial to enhancing efficiency and streamlining production processes. However, when the time comes to upgrade or replace these systems, the challenges of dismantling them without disrupting daily operations can be both complex and demanding. In a recent project, Empire Services undertook the task of dismantling a local truck body manufacturer's current automated system.

Empire Services took on the responsibility of dismantling portions of the current automated lifting system, which is deeply embedded within the manufacturer's facility. This automated system, serving as the backbone of their manufacturing process, needed to operate seamlessly every day. To navigate this challenge, the project was divided into four phases, with the crucial stipulation that the system could only be removed during facility shutdowns to avoid disruptions to daily operations. The entire project is expected to be completed this fall.

The Intricacies of the Automated System

The complexity of the automated system lay not only in its integral role in the manufacturing process but also in its extensive structural integrity. The system, responsible for lifting and transporting truck bodies from station to station and situated on a multi-level mezzanine that winds its way throughout the facility, required a strategic dismantling approach.

To execute the dismantling, the Empire Services team employed a combination of tools and equipment, including aerial lifts and various forklifts. The primary tool for the task was an acetylene torch, skillfully wielded to cut the steel structures into manageable pieces. The precision required in this process was heightened by the challenges posed by the confined space and the need to navigate around existing production equipment that could not be easily relocated.

Navigating Space Constraints

One of the primary hurdles faced by the team was the limited operating space. The structures earmarked for removal were situated in the heart of the manufacturing floor, surrounded by various production equipment that couldn't be moved. This necessitated a careful maneuver around, on top of, and beside the operational machinery, emphasizing the team's adaptability and precision in their approach.

Working with steel structures at significant heights added an additional layer of complexity to the project. Cutting and lowering steel components required heightened safety measures, and the team's expertise ensured a meticulous and smooth process. The use of aerial lifts allowed for controlled access to elevated sections while forklifts ensured safe handling of these materials, showcasing the team's commitment to both efficiency and safety.

The dismantling of an automated system within a manufacturing facility is no small feat, and the success of Empire Services in navigating the complexities of this project stands as a testament to our expertise. From strategic planning and phased implementation to adapting to space constraints and ensuring safety at every step, the precision dismantling of this automated system exemplifies the delicate balance required in such endeavors. As manufacturing technologies continue to evolve, the ability to efficiently upgrade or replace systems while minimizing disruptions remains a crucial skill, and Empire Services has showcased its expertise in executing this intricate balance of precision dismantling.

A Monumental Eviction of Office Contents

Wed, 10 Jan 2024 15:47:33 GMT

The vacant echo of an office space stripped bare often heralds a transformation in progress. While the sight may evoke curiosity, the reasons behind the removal of contents are varied and hold insights into the dynamic life cycle of commercial real estate. In cases where an office space resides within a building slated for renovation or demolition, questions loom regarding the fate of the contents and the duration of building services. This intricate process becomes time-consuming, dictated by the square footage at play. When the square footage is almost a million square feet, the removal of contents is best done by a team of professionals experienced in interior demolition .

Empire Services Takes the Helm

Embarking on such a monumental project demands a partner with the vision and capability to navigate the complexities of moving large quantities of materials in an efficient, cost-effective manner. Empire Services, which has a reputation for delivering transformational projects, was selected to perform an intricate project like this. Through renovations, demolitions, and meticulous adherence to safety protocols , our expertise became the compass.

Empire Services recently removed cubicles, contents, and flooring from an 800,000 square foot vacated office building in Montgomery County, PA. The challenge of the project was getting an incredible amount of materials out of the space efficiently. The solution was to expel the materials through the newly created exterior openings utilizing smaller mechanical equipment to a waiting 325 excavator for loading, transportation, disposal, or recycling.

The empty shell of a once-furnished office space is not merely a blank canvas; it is a testament to the dynamic nature of the commercial real estate landscape. This is where the experience of Empire Services becomes warranted when clearing a structure of its contents, such as partitions and other furnishes. Contact us today to learn what we can do for your next project!

A Look Back at 2023

Tue, 19 Dec 2023 18:05:06 GMT

Demolition Magazine Article

Demolition magazine published our article (Vol. 51 Q2 2023) on the demolition and excavation work performed to repurpose the Allentown Metal Works site. The team’s sequenced approach for the project maximized their productivity and earned them the Alvin H. Butz, Inc. Outstanding Feat award for 2022!

Removing One System for a New One

Tue, 12 Dec 2023 16:32:27 GMT

Technology has played a pivotal role in transforming businesses since the advent of the first industrial revolution. Over the course of history, we have witnessed four industrial revolutions , each leaving an indelible mark on the way businesses operate. These revolutions have not only accelerated manufacturing processes but have also brought about significant changes in how products are stored, managed, and distributed.

In the wake of the first industrial revolution, mechanized processes emerged, leading to the creation of new facilities to house products – the warehouse. As businesses evolved, some warehouses were transformed into multifunctional spaces that house offices, retail, and residential spaces. Those warehouses dedicated solely to storage underwent a modernization process, incorporating advanced automated systems to enhance efficiency in product storage and shipping.

One sector that has particularly benefited from warehouse automation is grocery distribution. The demand for timely and accurate distribution of perishable goods has driven companies to invest in cutting-edge technology. Recently, Empire Services took on a significant project in Lancaster County, PA, working in collaboration with Hansen-Rice to automate a grocery distribution center.

The project involved a comprehensive overhaul of the existing facility, necessitating the removal of pallet racking, conveyor systems, and utilities to make way for a state-of-the-art automated conveying system. Given the facility's round-the-clock operational schedule, especially during its busiest hours from 12 AM to 7 AM, the project was inherently time sensitive. The team at Empire Services strategically moved materials to lower elevations accessible by mechanical equipment, facilitating the efficient disassembly of rows of pallet racks.

Once the pallet racks were dismantled, the focus shifted to removing conveyors and utilities, creating a blank canvas for the integration of the new automated system. This meticulous process ensured minimal disruption to the ongoing operations of the grocery distribution center while paving the way for enhanced efficiency and productivity.

The evolution of technology has been instrumental in reshaping businesses and industries across the globe. From the first industrial revolution to the current era of advanced automation, each phase has left an indelible mark on how products are manufactured, stored, and distributed. The recent project undertaken by our team exemplifies how automation is revolutionizing the way we handle and distribute goods, paving the way for a more technologically advanced and efficient future. At Empire Services, we are experienced in dismantling various materials to make way for new technology or workspace. Contact us today to learn how beneficial our demolition services are to your project!

Emergency Demolition of a Factory

Tue, 21 Nov 2023 18:31:45 GMT

Fires in vacant commercial buildings are a constant problem in cities across the nation. Firefighters must contend with numerous challenges with each fire, including narrow streets, collapses, and bad weather. They must also deal with items left behind by a previous tenant. Sometimes an investigation is warranted when the items left behind require a unique disposal. These items complicate the demolition plan as well. This was the case with a recent fire in Reading, PA.

A two-alarm fire broke out in a vacant factory building on South 9 ^th and Laurel Streets November 2 ^nd . The multi-story building was close to residential structures and housed items that required careful disposal. The City of Reading contracted Empire Services to perform a partial demolition. The 137-year-old structure was owned by Lincoln Chemical Company for almost 30 years. They mixed detergents used in manufacturing operations and left the items behind along with green bottle caps. Another previous tenant was the Reading Brewing Company , which operated in the structure for 90 years.

Once the building was cleared by the Reading Fire and Police Departments, Met-Ed terminated the power lines allowing the demolition process to begin. We met with the Fire Marshal to determine our plan of action considering there were a few hot spots still burning. DVC (an Empire Group affiliate) transported our equipment and the demolition debris to a disposal facility.

Starting from the east side of the building, we removed the collapsed roof and remnants of the fourth floor using one of our 95-foot UHD long reach excavators. Next, most of the third and second floors came down. This was to ensure the structural integrity of the building as well as the safety of the on-site workers and nearby residents. A skid loader was used to remove bricks from the streets, which were loaded into a DVC dump truck for disposal.

Despite the hot spots, items left behind and a collapsed roof, Empire Services successfully completed the job. We wish to thank the Reading Fire and Police Departments for ensuring the job site was safe for our team. At Empire Services, we have the experience and equipment to provide efficient emergency demolition to a variety of structures, from buildings to silos. Contact us today to learn more about our demolition services!

What's New at Empire Services

Mon, 30 Oct 2023 17:49:19 GMT

Fall is here and it's off to a great start for Empire Services. We have been busy with new projects, from a tire company to a play area. Here are some of the highlights.

Removing a Canopy

A welcomed change for a front entrance! We removed the canopy in front of a business in Bethlehem, PA. Our team deconstructed the canopy piece by piece including the metal frame.

Deconstructing Two Floors

Empire Services deconstructed two office floors for a dental insurance company in Cumberland County, Pennsylvania. The new tenant needed two floors to accommodate employees and other support areas. The project began with the removal of the ceilings, walls and then the flooring. Care was taken not to damage the carpet during demolition due to the recycling requirements. Once the flooring was removed, all adhesives where then ground smooth using various diamond grinders.

Taking Part in the Restoration of a Lock

We recently took part in the restoration of the historic Lock #47 Canal in Berks County, PA. Our crew provided erosion control measures and excavation services, constructed coffer dams, and installed a bypass pumping system to control water infiltration. Excavation began with removing debris, old timber gates and hardware, and fallen sandstone blocks from the canal prior to the Berks County Parks and Recreation staff relocating wildlife from the canal. We can’t wait to see the lock when the restoration is completed.

Making the Grade with School Improvements

We love school projects! Our team prepared the playground and parking area at an elementary school at 10th & Green Streets in Reading, PA. Some of the improvements included new blacktop, playground equipment and lighting.

Taking Part in the Restoration of Lock #47

Tue, 24 Oct 2023 13:07:50 GMT

Empire Services recently had the opportunity to take part in the historic Lock #47 restoration, which is part of the Union Canal in Bern Township, PA. This canal was once a primary source of transportation in the 19th century. Yet, it was not widely used since it did not attract much traffic from west of the Susquehanna. It did, however, have a significant impact on the local communities it served. The Union Canal transformed into the Union Canal Trail, which is a link to many Berks County parks. Lock #47 is part of the Union Canal Trail and had fallen into disrepair since the last restoration in 1976. It is undergoing another restoration for visual aesthetics and educational purposes.

Although Lock #47 hasn’t been active for over a century, it has been transformed into a popular recreational area. We are grateful to take part in the restoration of this historic lock. We eagerly await the completed transformation of the canal. Whether it’s excavating a foundation or cleaning out a canal, we have the equipment and experience to transform your project. Contact us today to learn more!

Deconstructing Two Office Floors for One Client

Tue, 26 Sep 2023 19:46:53 GMT

The amount of work for customizing a commercial space depends on the budget and the type of business. The changes can be as simple as changing the flooring and paint to more extensive changes, such as removing ceilings and flooring. Some jobs need a complete gut from top to bottom of the entire space to meet the new tenant’s needs. And some jobs consist of multiple floors to accommodate technology (e.g., servers). Removing non-structural components, such as walls and fixtures, creates a new floor configuration. This process is called deconstruction (also called select demolition), where the crew dismantles everything on the floor and recycles what they can. Empire Services recently deconstructed two office floors for a dental insurance company in Cumberland County, Pennsylvania.

Prepping for New Finishes

The new tenant needed two floors to accommodate employees and other support areas. JEM Group contracted Empire Services to perform the selective demolition of the 5 ^th & 6 ^th floors of this building to achieve this. The project began with the removal of the ceilings, walls and then the flooring. Care was taken not to damage the carpet during demolition due to the recycling requirements. Once the flooring was removed, all adhesives where then ground smooth using various diamond grinders. This process is common when new flooring applications require smooth clean surfaces free of remnant glue and other grime. While removing the ceilings all florescent light tubes were carefully removed and packaged for proper recycling and disposal.

Deconstruction Completed

Each floor will contain a computer room. One floor will have the main computer room; the other will house a remote room. These rooms require unique flooring, so we diligently removed the glue to ensure the concrete slab was clean and smooth. New wiring was necessary and required the ceiling removal. It is gratifying to see such a transformation from start to finish. Contact us today when you need to outfit an office space from scratch. Our experienced and highly trained team will deconstruct the space to meet your needs.

A Brief Look at Sinkholes

Mon, 11 Sep 2023 20:59:53 GMT

Sinkholes in Pennsylvania are more common than you think. They are a subsidence feature, a downward movement of surface material that occurs naturally when the soft rock (e.g., limestone, carbonate rock or salt beds) beneath the land surface has dissolved from acidic rainwater or groundwater. The water seeps down through the surface soil and sediment until it reaches the soft rock. The result is an underground cavern which causes the land above to sink (or collapse), pulling a circular section of earth. They can come in a variety of shapes and sizes depending on the size of the collapse. And there are three types of sinkholes : dissolution, cover-subsidence, and cover-collapse. Let’s take a brief look at each one.

Types of Sinkholes

Dissolution: As its name states, the soft rock beneath the land surface dissolved due to rain and/or run-off water causing a depression. There is no or little vegetation to absorb the water where the sinkhole occurred. Most of these sinkholes become ponds and expand over time.

Cover-Subsidence: These sinkholes are found where sand covers the bedrock. They develop when the covering sediments are permeable and contain sand; they spall into the openings underlying the soft rock and eventually cause a downward erosion. Cover-subsidence are smaller and occur less frequently than the other types of sinkholes.

Cover-Collapse: Unlike cover-subsidence sinkholes, cover-collapse are bigger and can develop abruptly. They occur where the overburden soils contain a significant amount of clay in the sediment, spalling into a cavity. The clay forms a bridge to cover the enlarging cavity. Once the bridge breaks, the ground collapses.

Empire Services Tackles Sinkholes

Sinkholes can occur anywhere, including backyards, roadways, and parks. Most recently, they occurred on a commercial property in Berks County, PA. Empire Services was contracted by Penn State Health Medical Group to repair dissolution sinkholes found on an incline near a small group of trees. At the start of the project, the sinkholes were assessed to determine their extent and cause. Next, the crew excavated the area to prep it to receive a layer of impermeable clay and bentonite. Once the area was leveled, they used a compaction roller to proof roll the area. The last step was stabilizing the disturbed area by placing topsoil, seed, and straw mulch on it.

From sinkholes to sanitary sewer line construction, Empire Services offers virtually every type of excavation service required for sinkhole remediation, site preparation, street construction, rock removal, and trenching for site utilities. Contact us today to learn more!

Using Our New GPS for Site Preparation

Mon, 28 Aug 2023 14:32:39 GMT

It’s hard to imagine living without the global positioning system (GPS). Not only does it help us to find addresses and get directions, but it can also act as a tracking device to find lost or stolen items. GPS dates to the 1950s when research scientists used it for military purposes to find longitude and latitude. Yet, GPS didn’t reach its full operational capability until the 1990s. Today, GPS is found in a variety of products from cell phones and automobiles to golf accessories and vision recording eyewear. It’s even found in earthmoving equipment for accurate digital guidance. Empire Services is excited to announce we have expanded into the automated grading platform (also known as GPS). We’ve put it work on our latest project in Lancaster County, PA.

Before GPS, workers had to rely on stakes and lasers to guide machinery along with making several passes to achieve the proper grade. Now, this technology enables workers to get the job done right on the first pass with ease. Empire Services was contracted by P J Dick to provide a variety of excavation services to prep the jobsite for a new warehouse. The project also included a wet detention basin, road, parking lot and utilities.

The project began with the demolition of the existing structure to make way for the new warehouse. Once down, we began the earthmoving work. One of our bulldozers is equipped with GPS, which we used to grade the new building pad. We also excavated the foundation and graded and stoned the base for the foundations. Empire Services was also tasked with paving the parking lot, installing a storm sewer, and providing landscaping.

As we expand our fleet, we can provide more services to our customers. On this project, our new GPS equipment provided precision guidance saving time and money. At Empire Services, you can count on exceptional excavation services to get your project off to a smooth start!

Transforming a Structure in a Technology Hub

Tue, 15 Aug 2023 13:45:10 GMT

Technology hubs have been around in the U.S. since the 1950s starting with Silicon Valley , California. As technology advanced, these hubs have popped up across the nation creating innovative projects and services. The buildings in these hubs can be adapted to meet the needs of business owners, from light manufacturing to offices. This was the case for a technology hub in Breinigsville, Pennsylvania. What makes this hub unique is that it was built to support the semi-conductor industry and was once the world headquarters of AT & T Optoelectronic . It’s also the location for Empire Services’ latest project.

Empire was contracted by Ondra-Huyett Associates, Inc. to perform interior demolition in a structure that will undergo a major transformation. At the start of the project, it was a large empty space with a mezzanine, duct work and suspended utilities. The Empire team was tasked with getting the structure ready for building construction since it will have two floors to accommodate the new tenet’s specifications.

The Empire team began the project by demolishing the drywall partitions and carpet. While the team removed duct work and suspended utilities, a crew member started on the grated mezzanine. Removing each grate by hand ensured the pieces would be good condition to be reused. Below, the concrete slab was being saw cut for removal later. Once the slabs are removed, the finished floor will be lowered over one foot in addition to the installation of new foundations for the new second floor. The project did not require large equipment, only scissor lifts, a forklift and mini excavators.

As we work on projects like this one, we see how important adaptability is for buildings in technology hubs. The interior demolition must be done with precision to give the tenet the blank slate needed to create a unique workspace. When it comes to transforming spaces, Empire Services has the equipment, experience and expertise to get your project off to a smooth start!

Continuing the Green Trend in Demolition

Wed, 26 Jul 2023 15:30:05 GMT

As the world shifts to utilizing sustainable practices, many industries are adapting them to reduce their impact on the environment. While both the construction and demolition industries have been going “green” for some time, the demolition industry is making a bigger push towards making them a permanent part of demolition projects. There are more green opportunities in demolition projects since recycling has become an industry standard. Using green (or sustainable) practices in demolition is one of three (robotics and AI) trends continuing into next year. Let’s take a look at some of the reasons why this trend will continue to mark the industry’s processes.

1. Reducing Landfills – By recycling and salvaging materials, there is less waste sent to landfills. They should be part of the waste management plan, which includes an assessment of all materials for recycling, salvaging (or reusing) and disposal. There are many recyclable materials, such as concrete, bricks, wood, metals, insulation, drywall, and plastics. Plus, the older the structure, the more historic materials to salvage, including doors, millwork, sinks, and hardware.

2. Creating Unique Properties – Many renovated structures use sustainable demolition techniques such as select demolition and hand demolition (or deconstruction). Select demolition is demolishing only a section of the structure to make way for a renovation while the main structure is intact. The Empire Services team recently performed this technique at new thrift store opening this fall in Reading, PA. The store is renovating an existing retail space to create a drive-through/drop off area for donations located in the rear of the structure. Our team removed the roof and exterior walls to make way for the new drop off area.

Hand demolition is more labor intensive than select demolition since the demolition is done by hand to salvage materials (e.g., a door panel or floor). An example of this was the intense renovation of Vail Hall at Lincoln University. Our team removed plaster ceilings and walls, a floor structure, a basement slab, and steel beams pocketed into exterior walls.

3. Using Eco-Friendly Tools & Machines – Large machinery is often required in demolition to make projects safe and efficient. However, the use of energy-efficient tools and machines are on the rise. These are electric tools, which are mostly used in light and hand demolition work. Along with electric tools, there are electric machines. Electric excavators are out on the market, which reduce costs and carbon footprints. But what about large machinery? Prototypes are currently being developed and tested for power and longevity.

Like electric vehicles and alternative fuels, green demolition is here to stay. We will see more sustainable practices in the next year with new eco-friendly tools, more materials to recycle and reusing older structures.

At Empire Services, we strive to reduce waste on our projects and our impact on the environment. Contact us today to learn more!

What's New Empire at Services

Mon, 10 Jul 2023 17:17:58 GMT

Summer is here and it's off to a great start for Empire Services. We have been busy with new projects, from a playground to a thrift store. Here are some of the highlights.

Installing an All-Abilities Playground

Taking Part in Minsi Lake Rehabilitation

Creating a Drop Off Area for a Thrift Store

A New Article in Demolition Magazine

How an Old Park was Transformed into a Modern Play Area

Wed, 28 Jun 2023 14:42:31 GMT

There are many parks in Reading which have been reshaped and transformed, but there is one park that may have the biggest transformation: City Park. This park, formerly called Penn’s Commons , was laid out with the specific purpose of being used for public recreation as early as 1749 by John and Richard Penn. The park has undergone many transformations since the early 1800s. However, the latest transformation holds special meaning since it has been expanded to include a modern playground.

Empire Services was contracted by the City of Reading to install a new section in the northwest corner of the park near 11 ^th and Walnut Streets consisting of an all-inclusive playground and a splash pad.

The project began with various utility upgrades prior to the installation of the new splash pad, which features an 11-foot tall cattail and mushroom spray nozzles along with box turtle and frog fountains. As the utilities were upgraded, the playground area was being paved to certain tolerances to receive the specialized soft surface and new playground equipment. The play areas are designed for children with special needs, which include a quiet grove, an on-grade merry-go-round, language panels, and a music station. The colors were specifically chosen to soothe children with sensory disorders and to keep the equipment cool.

On June 7 ^th , the city held a ribbon-cutting ceremony for the new playground and splash pad. Mayor Eddie Moran, along with help from some neighborhood children, cut the ribbon and took part in running through the splash pad. While there are some finishing touches to be added, such as fencing and walking trails, kids are already enjoying their new playground and splash pad.

Expanding this green space was a unique project for Empire Services. Not only did it provide a safe and fun playground for the community, but it also provided play activities for children with special needs. At Empire Services, we take pride in our quality workmanship and helping local communities improve their environment. Contact us today to learn more about our excavation services!

Empire Services Takes Part in Minsi Lake Rehabilitation

Tue, 20 Jun 2023 15:49:29 GMT

It’s summer and the perfect time to take advantage of what Pennsylvania parks offer. One thing you can count on is the thousands of miles of walking trails. Empire Services recently created some in Minsi Lake Park in Bangor, PA. Minsi Lake Park is within the Greater Minsi Lake Corridor Greenway (identified as the Lehigh Valley Greenways Plan). The Greater Minsi Lake Corridor Greenway is one of two Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission-operated lakes in Northampton County, and offers hiking trails, walking trails, picnic areas, fishing, boating, wetlands, and woodlands. Empire Services added to the existing walking trails in the park as part of the park’s rehabilitation.

Northampton County Parks and Recreation through Wilmer R. Schultz, Inc. contracted Empire Services to construct phase one of the Minsi Lake rehabilitation project. The project consists of building walking trails with many branches in two sections linking the west side of the lake to the east side. The trail is almost one half mile in distance.

Some of the trail sections that connect to parking areas at either end of the lake feature concrete slabs with picnic tables and seating areas, whereas the eastern trails lead to a new modern prefabricated restroom facility.

The Empire Services team excavated and prepared for the new paved pedestrian trails, concrete slabs and foundations for the new restroom structure. Some of the equipment utilized on this unique project included excavators, skid steers, rollers as well as a subcontracted crane service to place the new restroom structure.

The new trail connects to a parking lot on either end of the lake. The project is scheduled to be completed by September 2023. We can’t wait to see the finished trail. Contact us today to learn more !

Empire Services Spring Project Highlights

Tue, 23 May 2023 18:59:03 GMT

It’s been a busy spring for Empire Services! We worked on a variety of projects, which included taking part in a PennDOT project, installing a gas pipeline, and winning an award. Let’s take a look at some of our spring projects!

At Empire Services, we are thankful for the opportunity to work on these projects, which enabled us to help our customers to achieve their goals. We are also thankful for our team and everyone who works behind the scenes to keep Empire Services operating safely and efficiently. We look forward to the projects we will be working on in the summer!

Taking Down a Condemned Structure in Lancaster

Fri, 05 May 2023 20:03:20 GMT

When we hear the word condemned, we picture in our minds an old building barely standing full of cobwebs and debris. The property is not fit for human inhabitation. The word stems from condemnation, which is a real estate term meaning authorities (e.g., municipalities) have seized the property and have closed or placed restrictions on it for a number of safety and public health reasons in accordance with local ordinances. The structure is usually abandoned and not worth saving. A building on South Christian Street in Lancaster, PA recently suffered this fate.

When a local government condemns a building, it may do so because:

No one has been living in the home for at least two months.
An inspector can qualify the structure as “dilapidated” without citing a specific hazard.
No utilities were connected to the structure.
The structure has significant structural damage.
The structure contains serious risks to health, such as mold and infestations.
The structure is seized due to eminent domain to build a freeway, improve an intersection , or build a new facility.

The City of Lancaster condemned the building. The bricks in the structure had deteriorated and were falling apart, posing a threat to public safety. The interior was full of debris and the second-story floor is gone with only the steel beams remaining. Empire Services was contracted by Lancaster County Convention Center Authority to demolish the structure. The team surgically demolished the building to protect the adjacent building, which was to remain. Another challenge was to protect a building on the other side of the alley.

The structure was demolished using one of our excavators, taking the structure down from top to bottom. Only a concrete pad remained, a blank slate for the new property owner. Empire Services has worked with several municipalities to demolish condemned structures of various sizes, so we know the regulations involved to provide a safe and timely demolition. Contact us today to learn more!

House Demolition to Improve Intersection Congestion

Fri, 21 Apr 2023 19:29:23 GMT

T here are many reasons why a residential structure is demolished. On a recent Empire Services demolition project, a house was demolished for highway improvements. There was a time long ago when houses were purchased by the state only to be torn down so that a new highway could be built on the property. Now that most major highways have been established in Pennsylvania, the focus is directed on improving them. The improvements range from resurfacing to widening roads. This was the case for the house demolition in Breezy Corners.

The demolition signals the start of a PennDOT reconstruction project at the intersection of Routes 73 and 12. To ease traffic congestion, PennDOT’s new road design will widen the intersection to allow for left-hand turning lanes in all four directions. The intersection is notorious for long lines of traffic, a common problem when two-lane roads cannot handle the increased traffic due to new construction (e.g., homes and businesses) in the area. The only solution to avoiding the traffic was to take local roads around it, which would take you further away from the area and longer to get back on your route.

While three corners of the intersection will be improved, the parcel that will remain unchanged is the Redner’s Quick Shoppe on the westbound side of Route 73. Empire Services was contracted by Allan Myers to handle the demolition and clearing of the debris, whereas Allan Myers will handle the civil construction part of the project.

The Empire Services team used an excavator to demolish the structure, starting at the top working down. The demolition debris was collected and loaded into several DVC (another Empire Group affiliate) vehicles and taken to designated disposal facilities. Once the home was down, the cinderblock garage was next. This reconfiguration is one of many taking place this year. We cannot wait to see the new intersection. Contact Empire Services when you need demolition services !

Demolishing Almost a Block of Homes on North Plum Street

Fri, 31 Mar 2023 19:19:49 GMT

When a fire ravages a residential structure, the damage may be too extensive to salvage it. Thus, the solution is to demolish it since it is in imminent danger of collapse. If the structure collapses, damage to adjacent properties may occur and the public could be in harm’s way. This was the case for a series of residential structures on North Plum Street in Lancaster City, PA. A fire broke out on the third floor of one of the structures on March 13th and quickly spread to nine other structures. Out of the ten residential structures, the city made the decision to demolish eight of them. Although the last two structures suffered smoke and water damage, t hey will remain. Empire Services will demolish the eight structures while protecting the two salvageable structures and a parking lot.

Previously Condemned Homes

According to Lancaster City Mayor Danene Sorace, the eight residential structures were condemned years ago. In 2017, one structure was condemned during a construction project and six structures were condemned in 2019 due to a geological anomaly that compromised the foundations of the homes. Another home in 2019 was condemned due to raw sewage discharge into the back and side yards of the property. The fire spurred the city into finding a contractor to demolish the structures. Enter Empire Services into the picture. The Chief Building Codes Officer of Lancaster City contracted Empire Services to provide demolition services.

Making Way for Grass Lots

Empire Services will also hand separate along the roof line between the condemned structure and the structure to remain. Once the demolition is complete and the debris removed, the team will backfill and seed the disturbed area.

At Empire Services, we have the equipment and expertise to surgically remove fire-damaged structures , especially those next to structures that are to remain (i.e., a business). We also remove the debris to create a clean slate for property owners. Contact us today to learn more!

Is a Culvert the Same as a Bridge?

Tue, 14 Mar 2023 18:36:02 GMT

We see them all the time, but don’t pay much attention to them – especially when driving over them. These tunnel-like concrete structures are built under roadways (or railways) to provide cross drainage from one side to the another. They are called culverts, and many assume they are bridges. This is partially true since a culvert can function like a bridge. While a bridge and culvert can support traffic driving over waterways (or ravines) and there many types of each structure, there are distinct difference between them.

Types of Culverts

By definition, a culvert is not a bridge because it has a span of less than 20 feet. A bridge’s span can be greater than 20 feet, and any bridge span exceeding 20 feet requires a biannual inspection. Another major difference is the support. A bridge has support structures underneath it (e.g., piers and abutments), whereas a culvert's supports are embedded in the soil to bear the weight of vehicles driving over it. And compared to the cost of bridge, a culvert is usually less expensive and easier to construct. So, a culvert is the better choice to construct over a small, unimpeded waterway.

Yet, there is no one-size-fits-all culvert. The shape of the culvert determines the best use of the structure:

Pipe – This is the most common type of culvert with a circular or elliptical shape.

Box – Shaped like a box, the box culvert is widely used in road design because the shape provides a rigid structure.

Arch – Also called a low-profile culvert, it allows water to flow through low areas that might not be able to accommodate a different shaped structure.

Pipe-Arch – Shaped like a half-circle, a pipe-arch culvert is used in sites with low clearance.

Bridge – Functioning more like a bridge, the rectangular-shaped culvert is provided on rivers, trenches or canals and allow vehicles to travel on them. They can replace box culverts if an artificial floor is not necessary.

Metal Box – Also called an aluminum box culvert, it is lightweight with an easy installation and a good replacement for a small bridge. This type of culvert provides large cross-sectional areas for water conveyance where vertical clearance is limited.

Installing a Culvert

When it comes to box culverts, Empire Services understands their design and has the experience to install them quickly and efficiently. We recently demolished and removed an 18-foot-span bridge structure in Bucks County to install a new box culvert.

Our team set and leveled nine precast footer sections with three on each side. A 200-ton hydraulic crane placed four 38,000-pound precast box culvert sections as well as two 25,000-pound headwall sections. We utilized one 6-foot diesel-powered water pump and one 4-foot diesel-powered water pump to maintain stream flow around the project area.

The project was completed by installing scour protection and repaving the roadway. Contact Empires Services today to learn more about the civil works projects we can do for your municipality!

Renovating vs. Repurposing: What is the Difference?

Thu, 02 Mar 2023 19:51:52 GMT

It seems there are a lot of “r” words in construction and demolition. There is renovate, remodel, recycle, reduce, reuse, and repurpose. While the definition of some of these words is obvious (e.g., recycle and reduce), there are two words that many assume mean the same thing: renovate and repurpose. While they both mean to improve or to make new, there is a difference between them.

Renovation is the purpose of improving or fixing damaged or outdated structures. Whereas repurposing (also called adaptive reuse) is the process of reusing an existing structure for a purpose other than which it was designed for. Most repurposing projects are done on outdated (or historical) structures, and may include improving certain architectural features (e.g., windows). One of Empire Services most recent projects is a great example of repurposing, which was one of Mack Trucks plants. It had been taken over by Allentown Metal Works (Allentown, PA) before closing for good in 2011.

Allentown Metal Works is getting a second chance at life through Marcon Properties, LLC. The Allentown developer is repurposing two buildings (160,000 square feet in total) on the property, creating a modern production facility for affiliated Eastern Exterior Wall Systems . Together with project partner Alvin H. Butz, Inc. , Empire Services has given Allentown Metal Works a new purpose for future generations.

Repurposing & Reusing

The project started in October 2022, completing the bulk of the work in mid-January 2023. Since the existing buildings were stable, it made sense to repurpose them and reuse the materials. Empire Services began the project by working on the smaller of the two buildings. Taking the 50,000-square-foot building down to its shell for renovations was necessary, and included the removal of all windows, window infills, roofing, roof decking, metal panel walls, mechanicals, utilities, doors, and partitions. Numerous roof purlins also required removal due to wood deterioration since the building's closure over a decade ago, and mechanical equipment pits in the floor required equipment and material removal prior to backfilling with crushed concrete and clean stone in order to provide a level surface for the new concrete slab installation.

Starting with the Interior

During a renovation, the interior may be gutted to remove counters or to replace the floor. The same can be done for a repurposing project, but the interior is converted into a new design that serves a new purpose. This was the case at Allentown Metal Works. Empire Services not only gutted the interior, but they also removed the roof. They removed partitions and other finishes by removing mechanical features from the roof level and worked down, moving east to west through the building.

Once the interior demolition was approximately 50% completed, additional crews demolished the roofing and wall sections. Windows and window infills were then removed following the same east-to-west approach, allowing multiple crews to work simultaneously and providing a safe drop zone for demolished roofing materials. Multiple articulating boom lifts, ranging in height from 45 feet to 135 feet were used to access the different levels of roofing material, windows, and mechanical features.

Upon completion of roof and wall demolition, Empire Services moved on to demolish select sections of concrete slab where required for future slab on grade, again working from east to west. A CAT 325 excavator with a hydraulic hammer was used to fracture and remove sections of raised and thickened slabs to provide the appropriate grade for the new concrete slab installation. Demolition of the slabs and completion of wall openings occurred in February 2023.

Repurposing Allentown Metal Works was a unique project for Empire Services. It required more equipment and scheduling than a renovation due to the new function of the structure. However, the team was up for the challenge and successfully completed the project ahead of time and on budget.

Repurposing a Historical Manufacturing Site: Allentown Metal Works

Tue, 14 Feb 2023 19:02:04 GMT

There was a time in the Lehigh Valley when all the cities were thriving with great industry like Bethlehem Steel, Western Electric and Mack Trucks, but those days are now long gone. At times it can be disheartening to demolish one of these venerable structures. Yet, knowing that by removing the unusable and unsafe portions of a property so that the remaining integral portions can be repurposed into new life makes the work very rewarding. This is especially true when the work brings back manufacturing and jobs to an area where it has been hard to come by in recent years.

This situation is not unique to Allentown, Pennsylvania . While many manufacturing sites have been demolished, there are sites all over that have benefitted from adaptive reuse. One of Empire Services most recent projects, the repurposing of a Mark Trucks turned Allentown Metal Works plant, is an example of this repurposing trend.

The property, which closed for good in 2011, is unique in that the products manufactured there date back to the early 20th century, designating it a historical manufacturing site. The first owner and occupant of the property was Traylor Engineering Manufacturing Company. In 1902, Samuel Traylor founded Traylor Engineering to manufacture heavy-duty steel components used in the mining, construction and concrete industries. These products ,and even Mack Trucks, however, could not keep this piece of Americana alive.

Allentown Metal Works will not be another footnote in Allentown’s history, however. It’s getting a second chance at life through Marcon Properties, LLC. The Allentown developer is repurposing two buildings — totaling 160,000 square feet — on the property, creating a modern production facility for affiliated Eastern Exterior Wall Systems . Together with project partner Alvin H. Butz, Inc. , Empire Services has given the Allentown Metal Works site a new purpose for future generations.

A Familiar Site

Serving as contractors first to the Allentown Economic Development Corporation , Empire Services demolished building A’s top floor after a partial roof collapse. That work enabled Empire Services to gain first-hand knowledge of the site, so when they were contracted by Alvin H. Butz, Inc. to assist with repurposing the facility, they were ready to perform select demolition and excavation work. Additionally, Empire Services was able to help budget, plan, and value-engineer the project with Alvin H. Butz, Inc.

Taking It Down to Its Shell

Since the existing two buildings were stable, it made sense to repurpose them and reuse the materials. The project on the smaller building began in October 2022, with the bulk of the work having been completed in mid-January 2023.

Taking the 50,000-square-foot building down to its shell for renovations was necessary and included the removal of all windows, window infills, roofing, roof decking, metal panel walls, mechanicals, utilities, doors and partitions. Numerous roof purlins also required removal due to wood deterioration since the building’s closure over a decade ago, and mechanical equipment pits in the floor required equipment and material removal prior to backfilling with crushed concrete and clean stone to provide a level surface for the new concrete slab installation.

When it came to devising the demolition strategy, it all came down to sequencing.

“The strategy for this project was straightforward,” says Matt Bard, Empire Services estimator and project manager. “We had to develop a sequenced approach that would allow us to maximize our productivity while ensuring we still had a safe work site with minimal hazards.”

Empire Services needed to perform the select demolition as quickly and efficiently as possible, coordinating multiple crews working simultaneously and releasing completed sections of the building for other contractors. As a result, renovation and rehabilitation work on the building began earlier than expected, exceeding deadlines to have the new manufacturing site operational.

Top to Bottom, East to West

Once the strategy was in place, Empire Services began demolishing the interior of the building. The crew removed partitions and other finishes by removing mechanical features from the roof level down to the slab, moving east to west through the building. The work was done by hand using high-reach lifts ranging from 60 feet tall to 135 feet tall, along with torches and demolition saws.

Once the interior demolition was approximately 50% completed, additional crews demolished the roofing and wall sections. Windows and window infills were then removed following the same east-to-west approach, allowing multiple crews to work simultaneously and providing a safe drop zone for demolished roofing materials. Multiple articulating boom lifts ranging in height from 60 feet to 135 feet were used to access the different levels of roofing material, windows and mechanical features during this stage.

While completing the work, a Bobcat T190 compact track loader with a grapple bucket and a CAT 345 excavator loaded out and managed materials to keep the job site as clean and safe as possible. Upon completion of roof and wall demolition, Empire Services moved on to demolish select sections of concrete slab where required for future slab on grade, again working from east to west. The CAT 345 excavator with a hydraulic hammer was used to fracture and remove sections of raised and thickened slabs to provide the appropriate grade for the new concrete slab installation. Demolition of the slabs and completion of wall openings occurred in February 2023.

Project Challenges

The biggest challenge for Empire Services was working at great heights with a crew varying in size (six to 10 members). Working to surgically remove roofing panels and mechanical features from the basket of a personal lift safely and efficiently is never an easy task. Being tied off to the anchor point with a harness to ensure proper fall protection and proper body positioning while performing torch cutting, or other demolition work, is being used is always a challenging and time-consuming process. As work progressed and additional trades began to work on-site, coordination of deliveries, work areas and safety became critically important.

By developing a sequenced approach, Empire Services successfully completed the project in February 2023 — ahead of time and on budget. Approximately 20 tons of metal was recycled and 200 cubic yards of crushed concrete was able to be reused as part of the pit infill. With the demolition complete, the new manufacturing is set to soon bring back the excitement of Allentown’s manufacturing history and provide an economic boost to the city.

Learn How an Intense Renovation will Revitalize Vail Hall

Wed, 18 Jan 2023 20:57:13 GMT

When it comes to renovating a property, many think of changing the paint, lighting, and the flooring. Yet, there is more to the process. There are three levels of renovation: minor, intermediate, and intense. A minor renovation is making cosmetic changes to a space, which involves paint, fixtures, and flooring. A step up from this level is intermediate, in which the space is transformed by removing and/or replacing built-in features, such as cabinets, counters, and shelves. The third level, intense, is the complete gutting of a space and is often done in historic buildings. Empire Services is working on a project of this caliber at Lincoln University in Lincoln University, Pennsylvania.

The renovation is underway in Vail Memorial Hall on the north end of the campus. The original portion of the existing building dates to 1898 by noted architect Addison Hutton . A 1953 addition to the 1898 structure was completely removed and will be replaced with a new addition, which complements the original portion of the building. Empire began the project with the removal of the structural steel beams pocketed into the exterior walls of the 1898 structure. We utilized specialty equipment to reach the beams and torched them off at the building to remain. We then chipped around the remaining steel stubs to fully remove the steel pocketed into the original structure.

Once completed, Empire will take part in the removal of the third-floor floor structure. The removal includes the flooring finishes, subflooring, steel joists, and steel columns. The goal is to create a high-ceilinged conference room. Scaffolding will be set up on the second floor to aid in the removal of the third floor, board by board and beam by beam. The crew will torch off the steel stubs as they are pocketed into the exterior wall like the 1953 addition. Also, they will be removing the entire basement slab and six inches of soil to increase the ceiling height. Work in the basement was already completed where they removed water-damaged plaster caused by leaking windows.

Although Empire has renovated many academic buildings, Vail Memorial Hall is unique due to its historical significance and the use of hand demolition to protect the original part of the building. This project is ongoing, and we cannot wait until the renovation is completed. Contact us today to learn how your next project can benefit from our experience and quality workmanship!

A Look Back at 2022

Mon, 05 Dec 2022 17:53:22 GMT

We find ourselves at the end of another year. Where has the time gone? Empire Services completed a variety of demolition, site, and civil projects. Each one required a strategic solution to achieve successful results. We also gained two new team members. Let’s take a look at some project highlights from this year.

New Team Members

Empire Services welcomed two new team members this year.

Empire Services Unlocks the Potential of a Bank Property

Mon, 21 Nov 2022 19:00:39 GMT

When it comes to commercial remodeling, many think of just removing a few walls, adding shelves and new paint. This may be true for some projects, but not all. The degree of remodeling depends on the existing structure and how it will be transformed. When it comes to structures with unique features, strategic planning is needed along with specialized equipment not only to ensure there is no additional damage to the structure during the demolition, but also to keep the crew safe. Take banks, for example. Many banks have been converted into offices, retail stores or restaurants. The project requires strategic planning because there are several factors to consider such as the vault’s weight, size, and type of construction around it. Once the vault is cut out, there are the issues of transport and disposal. Empire Services knows how intricate this type of demolition can be. Let’s take a look at our most recent bank project.

We removed a concrete bank vault from a bank that will be remodeled into an office. We used a dingo loader with a concrete hammer to demolish the 12-inch thick concrete walls after removing the 3-ton steel bank vault door. The demolition debris was hauled to a disposal facility by Delaware Valley Contractors

(an Empire Group affiliate).

At Empire Services, we know what it takes to demolish a bank vault safely and efficiently. We understand the limitations of the project so we can provide an economical solution. After removal, customers are left with a clean space that is ready to be remodeled. Contact us today to learn more about our unique demolition projects!

Empire Services Makes the Grade

Thu, 10 Nov 2022 19:11:10 GMT

Working on school projects can be challenging with many factors to consider for successful results. Each site is unique requiring special planning and preparation to mobilize equipment and resources without causing property damage. Typical school projects have aggressive schedules attempting to complete the bulk of the work during summer months, while creating phased or sequenced work once classes resume.

Empire Services has completed a range of site and demolition projects this year, including interior and exterior demolition, grading, foundations, utilities and paving. The schools range from elementary to college:

Glenside Elementary School, Reading, PA
Wyomissing Hills Elementary Center, Wyomissing, PA
Governor Mifflin High School, Shillington, PA
Northwest Elementary School, Reading, PA
12th & Marion Elementary School, Reading, PA
10th & Green Elementary School, Reading, PA
Reading High School, Reading, PA
Central Middle School, Reading, PA
10th & Penn Elementary School, Reading, PA
Jenkintown Elementary School, Jenkintown, PA
Krazter Elementary School, Allentown, PA
Schnecksville Elementary School, Schnecksville, PA
Millersville University, Millersville, PA
Albright College, Reading, PA
Schuylkill Valley Elementary School, Leesport, PA
Eagleville Elementary School, Eagleville, PA

Each project had its limitations, which required strategic solutions. However, Empire Services has the experience and equipment to maneuver tight spaces and work with aggressive schedules. We at Empire Services are proud of our team's commitment to excellence, professionalism, and quality workmanship while completing these educational facility projects. We look forward to seeing the successful results of the school projects they will complete next year!

What's New at Empire Services

Thu, 06 Oct 2022 20:29:07 GMT

Fall is here and it's off to a great start for Empire Services. We have been busy with new projects, from a playground to an animal hospital. Here are some of the highlights.

Demolition of a Silo

New Playgrounds at Wyomissing Hills Elementary Center

An Underground Basin at Kratzer Elementary School

Animal Hospital Demolition

At Empire Services, we are thankful for these opportunities and look forward to the projects that are scheduled in the coming months.

Services that Go Hand-in-Hand

Fri, 16 Sep 2022 19:24:36 GMT

When a company offers an array of services, it's because their employees have developed skills to handle every aspect of a job. Many of these services are connected. For example, a plumbing company provides heating and cooling services since they, along with plumbing, are key systems in a home or business. They are used in conjunction to create a comfortable space. Plus, there isn't the hassle of hiring three different companies, which can cause scheduling issues and additional costs. It's a one-stop shop that makes your life easier.

Yet, there are services that go hand-in-hand that many people don't realize. This is the case with Empire Services and the civil work they provide along with their demolition services. But how do these services connect?

Excavation & Civil Work

While Empire Services is known for our demolition services , many don't know that we also provide civil work. Civil work is a form of excavation . When it comes to a new development or heavy construction, all of the earthwork is done to make it easy to set up the utilities, storm sewers, streets and more.

Our turn-key excavation capabilities include:

· Roadway and Sidewalk Construction

· Sanitary Sewer Line Construction

· Storm Sewer and Retention Pond Construction

· Water Main Installation

· Gas Line Installation

· Land clearing

· Soil Erosion and Sedimentation Control

When you have a property that needs to be building ready, give us a call. We have trained and experienced crews with the most advanced and reliable excavation equipment to get the job done, from rock removal to water main installation.

Empire Services Summer Project Highlights

Fri, 02 Sep 2022 18:59:00 GMT

It’s been a busy summer for Empire Services! We worked on a variety of projects, which included getting properties ready for renovation, controlling stormwater runoff, and improving surfaces. Let’s take a look at some of our summer projects!

Glenside Elementary School – We have the expertise to complete campus site renovations on time and on budget. We demolished existing sidewalks and regraded the area at Glenside Elementary School in Reading, PA. We also repaved a section of the parking lot, providing a smooth surface that transitioned seamlessly into the existing asphalt.

Municipal Building Concrete Work – When it comes to concrete removal, you want to go with a contractor that can remove concrete slabs without compromising the surrounding structure. At a municipal building in Plymouth Meeting, PA, our team cut the existing elevated concrete floor into sections for removal without damaging the existing concrete slab below or the surrounding structure.

Bala Cynwyd Shopping Center – Progress is being made on our external demolition of the facade of a Bala Cynwyd shopping center in Montgomery County! We are in phase two, and recently demolished the canopy in this section of the shopping center.

Exeter Conversion Basin – It’s always great to see the finished project! We converted a dry detention basin associated with a residential community into a wet infiltration basin in Exeter, PA. We have worked on a variety of civil projects, including reconstructing reed beds, restoring flood plains, and installing numerous below grade utilities.

What's the Big Deal about LOTO?

Fri, 19 Aug 2022 18:00:58 GMT

Lockout/tagout (LOTO) is a big deal not only because it's a safety protocol but also because it can save someone's life. We have all heard about the injuries (e.g., burns, pinches, and slices) that have happened because LOTO was incorrectly done. It was created to prevent injuries from the unexpected release of energy from a machine or a piece of heavy equipment. The energy can be electrical, mechanical, hydraulic, pneumatic, chemical or thermal. In demolition, LOTO prevents injuries, safeguards workers and properties, and isolates energy sources.

LOTO requires a competent person to turn off and disconnect the equipment from its energy source. The person blocks the energy by locking and tagging the machine's energy-isolating device.

An Overdue Renovation for the Plymouth Township Building is Underway

Wed, 20 Jul 2022 19:27:03 GMT

Municipal buildings are renovated for a multitude of reasons. One reason is to add square footage to provide additional space, especially if several services are in one location. This was the case for a township in northwest Montgomery County (PA). The old Gilbertsville firehouse was torn down and the land was cleared to build a brand-new firehouse that would also house a police department. Another reason for a renovation can be for much needed improvements, especially to make a building energy efficient and eco-friendly. The Plymouth Municipal Complex in Montgomery County (PA) is an example of a building that needed to be brought into the 21 ^st century!

Empire Services was recently contracted by Rycon, Inc. to perform select interior and exterior demolition and renovation services on the township building. The 41,858-square-foot structure houses township administration, police, and codes/zoning. This is the first renovation for the complex in over 50 years!

Our skilled team demolished elevated concrete slabs and basement slabs in the former meeting room to allow the space to have a new slab poured to increase the usability. The basement slabs were demolished to provide space for a new elevator pit and other upgrades. They also removed walls, ceilings, floor finishes, doors, and windows so that interior spaces could be upgraded and more efficiently utilized. Exterior demolition included the removal of plaster soffits, exterior walls for new entrances, and stone wall finishes, so the installation of new finishes to beautify the exterior could be completed. We used a dingo, lull, and bobcat to support demolition crews and expedite the select demolition operations.

The improvements to the structure include a new roof, doors and windows, electrical and lighting systems, an elevator, floor coverings, and paint to walls and ceilings along with an environmentally friendly geothermal HVAC system. The project is expected to be completed in 2023 and will be ADA compliant . We look forward to seeing the “brand-new” building.

When you need select interior and exterior demolition services for a project, Empire Services has the experience and equipment to keep it on budget and on schedule. Plus, we take every safety precaution to help keep our employees and the public safe during each demolition project. Contact us today to get a quote!

When Demolition is Necessary for Public Safety

Tue, 05 Jul 2022 18:17:42 GMT

Demolition is mainly used to tear down a structure or remove interior elements to create a new structure or space. It’s always gratifying to see a site that has been made ready for new construction as well as a remodeled interior to suit a company’s specific needs. For example, Empire Services demolished 14 structures to make way for a new warehouse. We also performed interior demolition in Albright College’s Gingrich Library by removing non-essential utilities, partitions, ceilings, and flooring exposing the main structure for future upgrades. However, demolition is also necessary to protect the public from falling debris.

When a structure has been damaged by fire, snow, water or age, there is a risk of structural elements (e.g., trusses and walls) collapsing. Falling debris can become a safety issue for the public for several reasons, including causing injury to pedestrians, disrupting traffic and damaging power lines. When this occurs, demolition is the solution.

We recently completed a demolition project in Lehigh County where public safety was threatened by a deteriorating building. Part of an exterior wall of an old factory collapsed, and the bricks landed on the sidewalk and in the street. The building once housed a manufacturing and distribution center of fabricated metal products. Empire was contacted by the property owner to demolish the top floor of the structure to prevent further incidents as well as remove the debris from the site. The first floor of the building (the structure was built into the hill with the top floor above street level) was to remain. During the demolition, barriers were put in the street to protect the public from any falling debris.

Public safety is a major reason for the demolition of a structure. The process must be done with precision and the right equipment to prevent further damage. At Empire Services, we have the experience and a fleet of equipment to safely demolish one or multi-story structures. Contact us today to learn more!

Giving a Historic Furnace a New Lease on Life

Fri, 17 Jun 2022 20:40:21 GMT

Excavation is a crucial part of the construction process, where it lays the foundation for a future building and/or development. Yet, excavation can also be used to create another type of foundation; one that provides a new lease on life for a property. This is the case with the old furnace in Robesonia, PA.

Founded as the Reading Furnace , it was built in 1794 by ironmaster George Ege. The furnace was expanded in 1845 by Henry Robeson, which established the town of Robesonia in 1855. The furnace closed in 1927 and was torn down. The surviving structures included the ironmaster's mansion, an office building and some workers' homes. Eleven acres were purchased from the estate of Lester Breininger by the Womelsdorf-Robesonia Joint Water Authority. The remaining acres were donated to the borough by the Breininger family.

These acres will be repurposed into a compost transfer station and a passive recreation area. What's great about this project is that the community can take advantage of the transfer station and enjoy the open area of the park. However, to create a park, the area must be refurbished. This is where Empire Services (Empire) comes into the picture.

Empire used one of their excavators to clear debris (trees, rocks, trash ...etc.) and regrade the area to provide proper drainage and the desired aesthetics for the park. The excavated soil was loaded into affiliate Delaware Valley Contractor's tri-axle dump truck and transported and deposited to an area above the excavation site.

At Empire, we are thankful for the opportunity to give the furnace property a new lease on life. Our team has the skills and equipment to handle a variety of excavation projects. Contact us today to learn how we can assist on your next project!

It's Been a Busy Spring for Empire Services

Tue, 07 Jun 2022 20:04:09 GMT

Summer is here, and we can't wait for all of the scheduled projects! We had a great spring with a variety of projects. We worked in and on different structures allowing for new development and facility upgrades. We are thankful for the opportunity to work on these projects, which enabled us to help our customers achieve their goals while continuing to provide services at their facilities. Below are just a few of our spring projects.

At Empire Services , we are excited for the projects we will work on this summer. Contact us today to learn how we can make your project run smoothly!

What Level of PPE Do You Need?

Fri, 20 May 2022 20:34:07 GMT

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) is not just for workers that handle hazardous waste or chemicals. They are used in a variety of industries, including demolition, healthcare, and manufacturing. PPE is specifically designed to protect various part of the body, such as the eyes, skin, face, hearing, and respiratory system from damage. The amount of risk for illness or injury is dictated by the task or project.

There are four levels of PPE established by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). Each level lists the equipment needed to provide the required protection. PPE does not provide effective protection alone; it is designed as a last line of defense, and is to be used in conjunction with other safety practices (e.g., protocols and equipment). Let’s take a brief look at the four levels of PPE.

Level A – This is the highest level of PPE. Workers are in a hazardous environment where respiratory, eye, and skin protection is needed. They must wear:

· A hazmat (or biohazard) suit – fully encapsulated.

· Outer and inner chemical-resistant gloves.

· Positive pressure air respirator with escape SBCA that is approved by the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH).

· Chemical-resistant steel-toed boots.

Level B – Although skin and respiratory protection are still required, the risk of hazard exposure is less than Level A. The list for Level B PPE:

· Face shield.

· Chemical-resistant steel-toed boots.

· Chemical and/or flame-retardant clothing.

· Positive pressure air respirator with escape SBCA (NIOSH approved).

· Outer and inner chemical-resistant gloves.

Level C – This level focuses on airborne contaminants, and air-purifying respirators are required. It is important to note that working in this type of environment warrants periodic monitoring of air. The list for Level C PPE:

· Full or half-mask with air-purifying respirator cartridges (NIOSH approved).

· Chemical-resistant steel-toed boots.

· Outer and inner chemical-resistant gloves.

· Chemical and/or flame-retardant clothing.

Level D – This amount of PPE provides minimal protection and is used for “nuisance” contamination (e.g., mud or paint). The list of Level D PPE:

· Hard hat.

· Steel-toed boots.

· Coveralls.

· Safety glasses.

· Gloves.

At Empire Services, safety is our top priority. It is implemented for each demolition project, including the correct level of PPE. Contact us today to learn what we do to help keep our workers, customers and the public safe during a project!

The Top 3 Types of Excavation

Wed, 11 May 2022 15:38:18 GMT

When people hear the word excavation, they picture a large piece of equipment digging up dirt. Yet, there is more to it. Excavation is a vital part of the construction process. It creates the foundation for a structure, street, or parking lot. Each construction project is unique, so a "one-size-fits-all" excavation service won't get the job done. Thus, it is important to know the types of excavation for a successful project. There are several types of excavation, which fall into two categories: task-based and materials-based. For this blog, we will explore the top three materials-based types of excavation.

1. Topsoil Excavation – Prior to most construction projects, the upper layer of soil is removed. This is referred to as topsoil, which contains organic compounds that promote growth. It is removed to expose what hopefully is good stable soil.

2. Earth Excavation – This is the removal of soil beneath the topsoil and on top of rock. Whether the project is digging a foundation for a new building or digging a trench for installing gas lines, this type of excavation is the most widely used. Earthmoving equipment, such as excavators and bulldozers, are used to excavate deeply as well as to clear an area of land. The removal of soil and rock is often called “common” excavation, which can also include muck, in contracts.

3. Rock Excavation – When it comes to removing rock beneath soil, using earthmoving equipment won’t cut it. From stratified layers to large boulders, pneumatic hammers, blasting, and drilling are used to break up the rock into manageable pieces to be hauled and/or incorporated into an embankment or foundation in thin layers. If the rock is rippable, the rock can be removed using attachments to a bulldozer or by a hydraulic excavator. Also, the removal of concrete pavement and retaining walls are not considered rock excavation.

At Empire Services, our team has the experience to excavate precisely and the right equipment for the job. You can count on us to tackle your challenging project with efficiency, so you stay on budget and schedule. Contact us today to learn how your project can benefit from our excavation services !

Top 5 Control Measures for a Safe Job Site

Fri, 15 Apr 2022 20:21:30 GMT

When it comes to the safety and compliance during a demolition project, control measures are of the utmost importance. There are many hazards that can not only cause injury but can also delay the completion of a project. To help ensure they do not occur, control measures must be put into place. Although there are many, we will explore the top five control measures.

Are These Control Measures Utilized?

1. Planning – It goes without saying this is a key part of any demolition project, not only for safety concerns, but also for budget and scheduling. Careful planning and assessment of the work must be performed before the project begins. There are many factors to be considered during the planning process, such as the location of job site, the type of equipment and trucks needed, and method of handling the debris.

2. Structural Survey – The strength and stability of the structure(s) to be demolished must be surveyed to determine what is to be done to prevent a collapse, such as shoring and stabilizing. It’s also important to know if there are harmful substances within the structure. An incorrect survey can be dangerous to workers and the public, and add time and money to the project.

3. Disconnecting Services – To prevent a fire or gas leak, it is vital that the utilities be disconnected at the start of the project. This can also affect adjacent buildings, especially during an emergency demolition .

4. Pollution Control – Pollution in terms of dust and noise can be an issue. Damping down during the demolition will reduce the dust and other particles. For noise reduction, it is beneficial to use hearing protection, place a barrier between the worker and noise, and keep machinery in top shape.

5. Monitoring – Designating a person to continuously monitor the job site and surroundings helps to prevent injuries and/or property damage. This includes monitoring vehicles and pedestrians in the vicinity of the project to ensure both are maintaining a safe distance from equipment or falling debris. Plus, ensuring workers are always wearing the applicable personal protection equipment on the job at all times.

These safety controls not only protect workers, but also protect the public as well as save time and money. Having all the control measures in place promotes safety and compliance, which is one of the key factors to a success project. At Empire Services, we implement a number of control measures to protect our team, the property, and the public. Contact us today to learn what we can do for your next demolition project!

What is High Reach Demolition?

Wed, 30 Mar 2022 18:05:14 GMT

While there are many types of demolition, there are also many demolition methods. As part of a demolition plan, the demolition method ensures that the project will be completed safely and on budget. One such demolition method uses a high reach excavator. Here’s a brief look at high reach demolition.

Used for Dismantling Buildings

There are some buildings that require specialized equipment to demolish or dismantle them. Some of these buildings are many stories tall and comprised of steel, masonry, and concrete. Thus, high reach demolition is the best choice. The use of an excavator is one of the main pieces of equipment used in demolition. However, a high reach excavator is best suited for tall structures due to its large boom size, which makes it easy to dismantle buildings from the top down. It is important to determine if a higher reach is needed than a heavier tool (e.g., thicker materials to remove). If a heavier tool is needed, the boom must be able to handle the weight of the attachment. High reach excavators are also used when precise removal of materials is needed, especially in tight spaces or when there are adjacent structures that are to remain.

The Attachments

There are many attachments for a high reach excavator, including shears, hammers, and processors. Shears are used to cut materials, such as steel and concrete. They can rotate 360 degrees for horizontal, vertical, and angled cuts. Hammers are used to break up materials, such as concrete and rock. They come in a variety of sizes depending on the scope of the work. Unlike hammers, processors break materials into smaller pieces (e.g., gravel).

A Cleaner, Safer Demolition

Using the high reach demolition method provides a cleaner, safer demolition because it causes less flying debris, dust and risk to the operator. Instead of using alternative methods, the long arm of a high reach excavator has greater control in pulling down, moving, or picking at structures from a great distance, protecting the operator, workers, and the public from falling debris.

At Empire Services, we have the equipment and experience to perform high reach demolition on a number of structures, from power plants to multi-storied buildings. Our team has the expertise to precisely maneuver a high reach excavator to get the job done safely and on time. Contact us today learn how our demolition services can make your project run smoothly!

Excavation Safety: Do You Really Know the Protection Systems?

Mon, 21 Mar 2022 17:46:46 GMT

Now that the weather is getting warmer, more excavation projects are being scheduled. This brings up the subject of excavation safety. Every year, contractors fail to take the required safety precautions to keep workers safe on the job. Excavations can be many sizes, including trenching and mass open cutting. They are dangerous and can cause injuries. Excavation hazards include, cave-ins, falling loads, and nearby structures collapsing into the excavation. It is recommended to use one of the protection systems listed below.

Sloping – Also known as benching, sloping is when the trench wall is cut at an angle that is inclined away from the wall. Before cutting, it is important to know the type of soil you are dealing with since each type has different requirements. For example, sloping should not be done with Type C soil, which is the lease stable and has a low unconfined compressive strength.

Benching – Some consider benching to the same as sloping since the ground is being cut to form a particular shape and/or angle. However, benching is different than sloping in that the “cuts” take the shape of a horizontal step(s). These steps are usually accompanied with vertical or near-vertical surfaces between them.

Shielding – This protection system uses boxes or supports to shield the workers from a soil cave in. They are easy to install with minimum disruption to the ground around the trench. Workers must exit the trench when the shield is installed, moved, removed or loads are being moved within or above the shield.

Shoring – It is a system of supports installed to prevent soil movement. It’s used when sloping is not an option due to the depth of the cut and the location. There are different types of shoring, such as hydraulic, sheet pile and timber.

Safety is a vital part of any excavation job. By being in full regulatory compliance, you provide the proper protection for your team. At Empire Services, we take every safety precaution to help ensure our team goes home every day. Contact us today to learn how our excavation services can make your next project run smoothly.

The Top 4 Equipment Used in Demolition

Mon, 07 Mar 2022 18:59:05 GMT

With every industry, there are tools used to promote its growth as well as provide time-saving processes. These tools (or equipment) set the standards to get the job done quickly and efficiently. In the demolition industry, there are pieces of equipment that every company must have, despite the advances in technology. Let’s look at the top four pieces of equipment every demolition company must have.

Demolition Done Right

When choosing right equipment for any job, you must understand the scope of work, which piece of equipment is best to complete the project, and how the equipment will affect the timeline for the project. It’s no surprise the equipment used in demolition are the same ones used in construction. However, there are four pieces of equipment that are staples in the industry.

1. Excavators – Also used in forestry and mining industries, excavators can perform a variety of tasks, including clearing debris and loading into trucks or containers. In demolition, the two most popular versions of these machines are standard reach and long reach. Both styles accept many attachments, such as breakers, shears, and grapples that enable these machines to perform different tasks.

2. Backhoe Loaders – This piece of equipment has a digging bucket at the end of its two-part arms and is similar to an excavator in that it can pick up and move materials. They are also used for trenching, excavating, and lifting.

3. Bull Dozers – Also called dozers, they are one of the most powerful and heavy-duty pieces of equipment. Dozers are mostly used to push large piles of materials (e.g., dirt and stone) and cut roads. The tracks give them mobility and traction in tough terrain and wide tracks equally distribute the weight over a large area to prevent sinking in mud or sand.

4. Skid Steer Loaders – Smaller and engine-powered, skid steer loaders can maneuver in tight spaces due to its compact size and effective turning capabilities. Today’s machines can be outfitted with a number of attachments, such as forks, buckets, and breakers.

At Empire Services, we have an extensive list of equipment. From track excavators to attachments, Empire has the equipment needed to get the job done on time and on budget. We also can provide any additional pieces of equipment not listed on our website. Contact us today learn more about our equipment !

Spring & Excavation: What You Need to Know

Mon, 21 Feb 2022 18:21:57 GMT

Spring means warm temperatures and budding flowers. However, the weather can be unpredictable in terms of downpours, thunderstorms, and high winds. With excavation companies, the warm temperatures mean back to business, especially after a harsh winter. Does this mean that spring is the best time for excavation companies? Yes and no. To be fully prepared to work on spring projects, you need to know what to expect.

Working in Springtime

Once the temperatures begin to rise, excavation (and demolition) projects get back on track. Everyone is eager to get outside and rev up their equipment. Yet, the warm temperatures can be just as dangerous as cold temperatures. Rain in the spring can be excessive because warmer air can hold more moisture than colder air in the Northern Hemisphere. This can not only cause a project delay, but also be a safety concern. Thunderstorms can also pop up, which involves lightning strikes and the safety standards for them. Along with thunderstorms (and without them), there can be high winds. They are annoying to people, but dangerous for teams working on job sites. Wind gusts can blow dirt, debris, and aggregate around, and can even cause dump trucks to tip or blow the truck’s load. Project managers must know when it is time to stop a project for the safety of the team.

Keeping Your Workers and Equipment Safe

Rain creates mud, and in the spring, there is a lot of it. So much so, that it can cake the undercarriage of your equipment. Stopping to clean it can mean a long delay, costing time and money. Mud can also create cave ins, especially if your workers are working in trenches . Trench shores and shields should be used.

If a ground is too soft from excessive rain, equipment can sink or loose traction, in which the equipment will need to be “rescued.” Further, the ground can even collapse, causing a piece of equipment to fall into it. To prevent this, soft ground areas should be identified. Wide track shoes for excavators should be used on sticky soil (mud) to increase traction and grip, which reduces ground pressure. It’s also important for workers to wear the proper personal protection equipment, such as safety vests, hard hats, and waterproof boots.

Although we can’t control the weather, we can implement safety practices to keep our workers safe. At Empire Services, safety is our number one priority. Thus, working in the springtime requires additional safety measures due to rain and wind. You can count on us to get the job done in the spring – or in any season. Contact us today to learn more!

What Can Impede Future Construction?

Tue, 08 Feb 2022 15:49:07 GMT

When a property owner wants to redevelop land, any existing buildings must be demolished. It’s seems like a simple job, but that is not always the case. Often, when land is redeveloped, there can be different structural or environmental issues that can impede future construction. This issue can be compounded if there are multiple types of structures on the property. An experienced demolition contractor knows what it takes to make the site ready for construction. Let’s take a look at some of things that can impede future construction on a demolition project.

1. Remnant Structures – What is left standing of a structure due to age and deterioration, such as walls and foundations.

2. Hazardous & Non-Hazardous Materials – It is important to know which materials are hazardous and those that are non-hazardous due to the way they are disposed. These materials include asbestos and universal waste (e.g., paint, cleaning fluids, automobile products, fluorescent lights, and thermostats).

3. Erosion Controls – The installation and maintenance of controls, such as a silt fence, a silt sock, or berms, prevent soils or materials from leaving the site during rain events.

4. Underground Storage Tanks – These storage tanks hold liquids, such as heating oil and gasoline, and must be cleaned and properly removed prior to redevelopment.

Making Way for a Warehouse

Recently, Empire was contracted to perform demolition of a total of 14 structures in order to make way for a new warehouse in the greater Berks County area. Not only was Empire responsible for the demolition of these structures, but the scope of work also included land clearing, underground utility removal, erosion and sediment control installation, and asbestos inspection and abatement.

Erosion controls were installed, and the areas were cleared and grubbed as needed in order to prepare the site for future construction. All of the buildings were demolished to grade, and then all footings and foundations removed completely to ensure that no remnant structures would remain to impede future construction.

As the project progresses, Empire will crush all of the solid materials on site to be used for backfill of basements and foundations, and perform additional exploratory work to find any relic underground storage tanks. If any tanks are encountered, they will be removed, and the void space backfilled with crushed materials from the on-site demolition. Contact us today to learn more!

A Brief Look at Drones in Demolition

Fri, 21 Jan 2022 16:58:50 GMT

Twenty years ago, it would be hard to imagine using flying robots to get data on a demolition project. Today, these flying robots are drones . Since the early 2010s, drones have been used commercially, especially in demolition. These machines perform several tasks that would have taken days to complete are now done in just minutes, which saves time and money. Some of the tasks include monitoring sites, taking pictures and videos, and identifying layout accuracy. Yet, with any piece of equipment, there are rules that must be followed for safe operation.

These rules (regulations) were created by the Federal Aviation Association (FAA) to protect crews and the public. Some of the first regulations were:

1. Drones must be used during daylight hours.

2. The maximum altitude was 400 feet.

3. The speed limit was 100 miles per hour (applying to drones weighing less than 55 pounds).

4. Drones must have anti-collision lights for twilight hours.

However, as the use of drones increased, the FAA created more regulations, including:

· The operator must be at least 16 years of age.

· The operator must perform a pre-flight check but is not required to obtain an FAA airworthiness certification for the drone.

· Drones cannot be flown over people unless they are part of the drone operation or are covered by a structure or vehicle.

· The operator must comply with FAA flight zones.

Drones allow demolition contractors to get intimate views of their projects, which results in better safety practices as well as provides details not evident from the ground. They have revolutionized the way data is collected to ensure the quality of the work being done, especially when comparing projects.

At Empire Services, we use a drone to help ensure our projects are accurate and efficient. The aerial views also help us to identify risks and hazards. It is a piece of equipment that is vital to the completion of a project. Contact us today to learn more!

Is Hand Demolition Necessary?

Mon, 10 Jan 2022 14:38:33 GMT

Demolition is often done with large equipment and/or explosives. It's exciting to see equipment on a project site taking down a wall or floor. Many times you will find a wide range of equipment, especially for large projects, such as an excavator with a rotating grapple, a 120-foot-high reach or a 110-ton hydraulic crane.

Yet, there are some jobs where materials are to be salvaged for their monetary or historic value. Unfortunately, salvaging these materials requires a more sensitive approach to removing them from the structure. This is where hand demolition (also called green demolition) is necessary. It's also used on jobs where there are personnel in or near the building, there are adjacent structures that are to remain, the structure is not stable, or there are overhead utilities.

Recycling & Reusing

Although hand demolition is labor intensive, time consuming and expensive, it is worth it to be able to recycle or reuse materials as sustainability is a best practice in demolition. Materials that can be salvaged include hardware, brick, wall baseboards, corbels , door/window casings, and steel.

When it comes to hand demolition , our team has the right equipment and experience to remove materials without damage. This enables us to skillfully salvage a variety of materials while adjacent structures or rooms remain intact. Each demolition is carefully planned and executed, including safely dismantling materials by hand. Contact us today to learn more!

Top 5 Myths About Demolition

Tue, 21 Dec 2021 13:40:08 GMT

In the U.S., demolition and wrecking is a $7 billio n industry. There was a 6% growth this past year, and there is even more growth expected for next year. Despite the growth and revenue, there are still myths about the industry. Let’s take a look at the top five myths.

1. Demolition is bad for the environment – It is easy to see why this myth was created due to the dust and other debris released during a project. Yet, this myth is not true. Demolition contractors utilize approved processes and/or work with environmental services companies to remove toxins from old buildings.

2. Overloading landfills – With so much debris created from a project, many believe all of it goes to a landfill. With green demolition , there are many materials that are salvaged from a project that do not get dumped in landfills, including copper pipes, doors, windows, bricks, and wood.

3. Demolition means blowing up buildings – Many believe demolition is all about blowing up buildings. There is a lot more to demolition than using explosives. Most demolition projects use heavy equipment (i.e., excavators and cranes) to remove walls, floors, or entire structures.

4. Anyone can demolish a building – Not true. Demolition involves precise planning and the use of equipment. A demolition crew has the experience and skills to demolish a structure safely and efficiently without causing damage to adjacent buildings or overhead power lines.

5. Demolition destroys historic buildings – Demolition contractors often preserve historic buildings through select and/or hand demolition, protecting the entire structure and its historic elements (e.g., corbels).

At Empire Services, we understand these myths and dispel them through our experience and specialized equipment. We have over 65 years of demolition work, from demolishing and removing portions of a cooling tower to the emergency demolition of a collapsed building. Contact us today to learn how we can make your demolition project run smoothly!

Being Thankful for Variety

Fri, 19 Nov 2021 21:22:18 GMT

This year has been a challenge for all of us. Yet there so many things to be thankful for and to express gratitude. One of them is variety. This may sound strange, but variety is what keeps us alert and helps us to expand our skills. At Empire Services, we are thankful for the variety of projects we have worked on so far this year. We were able to assist local municipalities, get sites ready for building construction, repair drainage issues and more. Below are just a few of the projects.

1. Emergency Response to a Collapsed Building – We recently responded to a collapsed vacant building in Reading, PA this winter. We demolished portions of the building to stabilize it as well as to protect the remaining structures.

2. Excavation & Utility Installation – Our team completed new water, sanitary sewer and electrical services for a new stormwater purification facility in Willow Grove, PA.

3. Removal of Bank Vaults – We removed two large vaults and a drop box from a former local bank. Each vault had an estimated weight of over 3,000 pounds. Prior to completion, we repaired the holes in the exterior wall created by the drop box removal.

4. Making Way for Redevelopment – A former retail center was being rezoned as a mixed-use property for commercial and residential development. We demolished the buildings to make way for the new structures. Recyclable materials generated during the demolitio n process are being separated from construction waste for offsite reuse.

5. Power Plant Demolition – We have the equipment and experience needed to demolish or remove power plants and plant equipment. We demolished the condensate ring of an abandoned cooling tower as part of an overall decommissioning project.

6. Demolition of a Firehouse – It’s the end of an era! We demolished the old Gilbertsville firehouse to make way for a new combined firehouse and police station.

At Empire Services , we are thankful for these unique projects and more! We are also truly thankful for our team. Their skills and experience, along our equipment, enable us to provide an exceptional customer experience.

What Are the Unknowns During Demolition?

Thu, 18 Nov 2021 15:01:45 GMT

With any project, there are things that can pop up that can cause delays and increase budgets. No one wants a project stopped for any reason. It is beneficial to know the “unknowns” demolition (and excavation) contractors come across to be proactive on a project. Below are some of the unknowns that can be found on a site.

1. Live Utilities – As a mandatory regulation, you need to call 811 a few business days before you dig . It’s the national phone number that provides the location of buried utilities on your project site. This valuable resource helps prevent the accidental damage to underground utilities, such as a pipe or cable, due to inaccurate or outdated mapping information. It’s also advised to have a ground penetrating radar survey done as well.

2. Unique Items & Structures – During a demolition or excavation project, contractors can discover unique items to be removed, including cars, antiques, cisterns, and glassware. They can also come across buried structures, such as a hospital. During the excavation of a new Apple store in Spain, contractors found the ruins of a 15 ^th century hospital .

3. Noise & Vibrations – Demolition of a structure produces noise and vibrations that affect those who live or work near the site. Vibrations are of particular concern with companies that use sensitive equipment as they can interfere with the equipment's performance. On our Sacred Heart School demolition project, we set up vibration monitors around the site to capture vibration signals that could cause health and/or equipment issues.

At Empire Services , our experience and equipment help us to be aware of possible unknowns on a site. We take every safety precaution and are in constant communication with our team, other contractors, and the property owner(s) to help ensure a successful project. Contact us today to learn more about our demolition services!

4 Ways to Combat Urban Blight

Tue, 19 Oct 2021 18:01:23 GMT

Urban blight has been a constant problem in cities across the U.S. for decades. When you look at the origin of the word “blight,” it has a deep history that stemmed from agriculture. The word dates to the 1600s and was used by farmers to describe a disease or an injury to plants that kills them. The definition morphed into what we know today as a state of deterioration. Hence, vacant homes and buildings deteriorate and lots become dumping grounds causing urban blight. There are many causes of urban blight, from unscrupulous landlords to foreclosures. Community leaders and real estate investors know that revitalizing a vacant building or lot can bring economic growth to a city, especially by creating opportunity for first-time homeowners or business owners. Rehabilitated properties create a sense of pride for a community and provide neighborhood stabilization. Just as there are causes for urban blight, there are also solutions to combat it. Let’s take a look at some.

1. Selling vacant lots for as low as $1 – Many cities have offered this, such as Chicago and Philadelphia, to encourage new construction or to revitalize properties.

2. Auctions – Homes worth salvaging go on the auction block and can get snatched up for a great price. Once the liens placed on a property’s title are settled, the lender will sell the property at auction.

3. Greening Lots – Many organizations (e.g., Pennsylvania Horticultural Society ) partner with city agencies to purchase vacant lots for the purpose of landscaping them, which includes removing trash, planting greenery, and adding fences. It doesn’t cost much to maintain a lot and some of them have been transformed into new homes, businesses, and gardens. By greening lots, home median values have increased.

4. Demolition – When a vacant home or building poses a threat to public safety, it must be demolished. This allows for the property to redeveloped.

At Empire Services, we have seen how a blighted property affects a neighborhood as well as a city. We are on call with local cities and municipalities to demolish collapsing structures, or those damaged by fire. For example, we recently demolished a semi-attached home in Harrisburg that had collapsed. We also stabilize and shore up structures until they can be repaired. Contact us today to learn how we assist cities combat urban blight!

A Look at Fire Safety & Demolition

Fri, 01 Oct 2021 20:36:56 GMT

October is known for falling leaves, pumpkins, and Halloween. Yet, it’s also known as Fire Prevention Month. This celebration raises fire safety awareness and helps communities discover ways to protect their homes and families. It was created by the National Fire Protection agency in 1922 in commemoration of the Great Chicago Fire . While many first think of protecting their homes, we must also think about protecting our businesses. There are many actions that can be taken to protect established businesses, but what about businesses that are being constructed, renovated, or demolished?

Fire safety is of great importance on a job site. For example, during a construction project, it is important to make sure equipment is properly used and stored. A propane torch used in the soldering of pipes must be used by trained employees and made sure it is turned off when not in use. On demolition projects, a firewatch must be used for up to one hour after any cutting with open flame or spark-producing devices is completed. Combustible waste and materials, such as oily rags and construction debris, must be properly disposed. It is also important the gas lines be shut off during renovation or demolition.

Demolishing Fire-Damaged Structures

Unfortunately, at Empire Services , we have demolished numerous homes and businesses that were destroyed by fire. With each job site, we implement many safety practices to prevent fires as well as injuries. We have demolished a variety of buildings, such as the Huntingdon Electric Motor Service building and the former Letisse Ladies Handbags Factor y , that had extensive damage and required the evacuation of adjacent buildings. The urgency of the projects often requires working with utility companies to disconnect service or reroute adjacent power lines. Our extensive fleet of specialized equipment helped us take them down safely and efficiently, in some very tight quarters.

While October puts a spotlight on fire safety, we always have it front and center on every job. When you contract Empire to demolish a fire-damaged structure, you can count on precision demolition, expert equipment, and an experienced crew. Contact us today to learn more!

Learn How Empire Services Demolished a Blighted Property in Harrisburg

Fri, 17 Sep 2021 20:52:02 GMT

Urban blight, also known as urban decay, has been a constant concern for our nation’s cities. In every state, you will find once thriving cities now falling into despair. Abandoned, boarded up buildings and homes along with vacant lots filled with trash (including cars and appliances) and high weeds can be found on many blocks. The reasons for urban blight are numerous, including absentee landlords, banks and mortgage companies foreclosing on businesses and homes, and environmental contamination. Empty homes and businesses attract crime and pose a safety risk to the public. It also affects the city’s economy and taxes, which has a trickle-down effect on nearby towns and the state. Just as there are many reasons for the decay, there are many solutions to correct it. One solution is demolition.

Demolition is used for urban renewal, which leads to redevelopment in many cases. In Pennsylvania alone, there are over 300,000 blighted properties . From Pittsburgh to Philadelphia, there has been a great deal of redevelopment throughout the state over the past five years. Revitalizing a property is a huge undertaking and begins when a Code Enforcement Officer condemns it. The structure on the property is deemed uninhabitable, and a demolition company is contracted to demolish the structure. At Empire Services, we have the experience and equipment to demolish a variety of blighted structures. We have well-established relationships with many local cities and municipalities and are on call for their emergency demolition needs.

Helping the City of Harrisburg

Recently, we were contracted by the City of Harrisburg to perform the emergency demolition of a semi-attached home (the home is attached to another on one side). The middle of the structure completely collapsed from the roofline down from water infiltration prior to inspection. Before the demolition could begin, Empire had to get the utilities disconnected and acquire a permit from the City of Harrisburg. The building was demolished by hand due to the poor condition, to prevent damage to the adjoining property. Once the demolition was completed, we worked with local contractors to ensure the party wall was covered with stucco to provide a weather tight barrier, and meet city ordinances for restoration.

Empire Services is proud to play a part in helping local municipalities remove blighted structures. Harrisburg is one of the many cities we have helped breathe new life into severely neglected properties. Contact us today to learn more about our demolition services!

Crane Safety at the Sacred Heart School Demolition

Tue, 14 Sep 2021 19:35:00 GMT

For 115 years, the Sacred Heart School has been a landmark in Allentown, PA. Unfortunately, a devastating fire on June 10, 2020, destroyed it. The multi-alarm fire caused extensive damage to the roof and the supporting structure for the roof. Smoke and water damage was throughout the structure as well. Once the damage was assessed, the Diocese of Allentown concluded that the building would be demolished and not rebuilt. Empire Services was contracted by Stellar Construction to demolish the three-story building. The biggest part of the strategy involved the use of a crane, which involved two weeks of preparation leading up to the crane being on site. We used a 110-ton hydraulic crane subcontracted from Dickinson crane to remove the steel roof trusses.

Crane Safety Protocols

The use of a crane requires crane safety protocols to be in place. At Empire Services, safety is our priority, not only for our employees, but also for our subcontractors, customers, and the community. For this project, a lift plan was done and vetted by I.B. Dickinson & Sons, Inc. It consisted of dry runs prior to actual lifts performed, site layout and pre-planning, on-site meetings to review the lift plan and crane set area, radio communication, hand signals, spotters on the ground and in a high reach. We also utilized guide ropes/tag lines with ground personnel guiding the trusses to the staging area on the ground.

The Demolition Process

With crane safety implemented, the demolition process could begin. The equipment chosen for the project also included a John Deere 450 excavator with long boom and rotating grapple, track loader, lull, and a 120-foot-high reach. The strategy of this demolition is to remove from highest to lowest, and finishing with the cleanup, stoning the top and filling the basement with clean fill. The process was started by removing the interior timber walls on the third floor. The walking bridge has been separated on the third floor from the adjacent school building, sealing off the opening. The piping was removed from the three-story structure. The removal of the fire-damaged roofing materials and timbers attached to the steel trusses came next. A few of the key cross timbers remain to provide lateral support for the 5,500-pound steel trusses until it is time to lift them off with the crane.

To remove the trusses, the front façade of the building was removed by hand to matching elevations of the adjacent exterior walls. This provided clearance and a clear line of sight for the man lift and the crane to reach the steel trusses for safe removal. After the front façade was demolished by hand, bringing it down the same plane as the exterior walls, it provided the proper clearance for the 120-foot-high reach to rig and visually spot for the crane removal of the trusses. The high reach was used to keep the spotters out of the structure and in line of sight of the crane operator. The chimneys on the north and south walls of the structure will also be demolished by hand down to match existing exterior walls on either side of the building.

The main challenge of the project is the limited staging area. The building is located on a busy, two-lane street and is very close to adjacent buildings, overhead power and communications lines and a guide wire for another utility pole. However, our crew has the experience to expertly work and maneuver equipment in tight spaces. Traffic control has been implemented to ensure vehicles can safely pass through the demolition area. Demolition currently continues to bring the building down to the ground while removing construction debris. The project is estimated to be completed next month.

Empire Services has provided emergency demolition services for Reading and the surrounding area for over 60 years. Our team has the experience and expertise to handle various equipment and to ensure the correct safety protocols are in place for a successful job. To learn more about Empire Services’ demolition services, contact us today!

Empire Group’s Family Fun Day at Knoebels

Thu, 05 Aug 2021 20:45:31 GMT

As an affiliate of the Empire Group, Empire Services has access to equipment and personnel of its associated companies. As an employee of the Empire Group, we have the opportunity to enjoy some of the fun events provided such as the annual family fun day at Knoebels locate d in Elysburg, PA. If you haven’t had the chance to visit Knoebels, it comes highly recommended. This unique experience is unlike most amusement parks and more like an old-fashioned fair. The park encompasses 150 acres, including a campground, picnic grove, golf course and swimming pool. Last Saturday, Empire Group employees and their families had a blast at “America’s largest free-admission park.”

Before exploring the park, there was a delicious buffet for the employees and families under a yellow and white tent in the picnic grove. The food included smoked chicken, hot dogs, hamburgers, cucumber salad, and potato salad, along with an array of drinks and desserts. After lunch, everyone headed into the park. There are over 30 rides and games to choose from, not to mention many food stands offering a variety of faire. There is also a museum dedicated to the local coal miners of the North Central region of Pennsylvania where Knoebels is located.

The museum was a great place to catch your breath after riding the exhilarating Impulse roller coaster featuring a vertical drop of 98 feet and a zero-gravity roll. The games were a fun break from all of the excitement as well. We tested our shooting and throwing skills, and won stuffed animals of many shapes and sizes.

As the day came to an end, we all had fun stories to share. No matter the affiliate company, the employees of the Empire Group come together to take part in one of the many family-oriented events held by the company throughout the year. We can’t wait for next year’s family fun day at Knoebels!

Gilbertsville Firehouse: Out with the old and in with the new!

Wed, 21 Jul 2021 13:59:10 GMT

Established in 2005, the Gilbertsville Firehouse crew decided it was time for a change! Starting on June 9 ^th and lasting one calendar month, Empire Services demolished the old firehouse to make room for a new, combined firehouse and Douglass (Montgomery) Township Police Department building.

With the help of our experienced staff and expert equipment, including our 345 John Deere excavator, CAT 321 Excavator, CAT 953 roller, Extec c12 jaw crusher, and CAT 10-ton roller, we were able to complete the demolition of the structure as well as recycle important materials from the demolition debris.

The main strategy of this demolition was to remove from highest to lowest, leaving concrete slabs to work off of and clean up, and finishing the underground afterward. This process was started by opening the exterior walls and removing interior features, which included large clear span steel trusses, various social club features, and the fire company working quarters.

Throughout the demolition process, a handful of materials were recycled. All steel was salvaged and all concrete (and other building solids) were crushed using recycled material as backfill. Overall, the process went smoothly with only a few obstacles.

For the crew at the Gilbertsville Firehouse demolition, the biggest obstacle was that the foundations had an unusual pile design that was unknown, making removal complicated. Pile foundations are composed of a series of columns constructed or inserted into the ground to transmit loads to a lower level of subsoil.

Thanks to our expert team at Empire Services , this redevelopment project was a success, allowing the site to be prepared for building construction. To learn more about our demolition services, contact Empire Services today!

Demolishing Portions of a Cooling Tower

Thu, 27 May 2021 17:37:53 GMT

When it comes to unique or special demolition projects, the Empire team is ready, willing, and able to take them on. Empire was awarded the contract to demolish and remove the condensing ring around the exterior of a cooling tower at a local power generation facility. The condensing ring construction consisted of wood-framing with thermoplastic baffles, which helped distribute and cool water as it flowed through the condensing ring. From decades of use, sediment build up in the base of the tower would impact the weight of construction debris if the demolished materials were mixed into the sediment and removed together. The demolition was further complicated by the existing FAA lighting on the top of the cooling tower, which had to remain in service during the project.

The demolition began by mobilizing one of our 95’ Ultra-High Reach Excavators to demolish the condensing ring structure from outside of the surrounding concrete containment walls. This process was in place to minimize mixing of materials, lower disposal weights and to protect the concrete containment walls. A second support machine was mobilized to work alongside of the 95’ UHD excavator facilitating the management and loading of demolished materials. In addition to the framed structure, there were small and large diameter pipes throughout the condensing ring structure. Small piping was demolished in place and segregated for recycling with the large bore diameter piping demolition taking place after all the dried wood framing was demolished and removed from the site to ensure all fire hazards were completely removed from the area. Once the structure was removed, the remaining silt and mud from the condensing ring was removed and staged under the cooling tower for future removal from the site.

Due to strict site safety regulations, equipment deliveries and removal of debris were closely monitored by plant security personnel, which required additional coordination to ensure the flow of traffic in and out of the plant was smooth limiting any potential delays.

At Empire Services , we have the equipment and experience to handle special projects. Our team has the expertise to handle any issues that may arise and are able to accommodate the unique needs of our customers. Contact us today to learn how we can make your project run smoothly!

Understanding the Two Types of Demolition

Wed, 10 Mar 2021 13:11:02 GMT

When a person thinks about demolition, the first thing that pops into their mind is a wrecking ball swinging into a building. While in some cases this is true, the majority of the time is a more delicate process utilizing different types of heavy equipment. There are two popular types of demolition: commercial and residential. Commercial demolition refers to business-specific buildings, such as office buildings and retail stores. Residential demolition refers to homes and buildings that are designated living spaces, such as homes and apartment buildings. Aside from the types of structures for each type of demolition, there are other differences. Let’s take a brief look at them.

Residential Demolition

Residential demolition has become more visible thanks to HGTV and their home renovation shows. The term “demo day” is used quite a bit, as it is part of the renovation process, and as such, time must be allotted for it. The schedule should also include time for encountering hazardous materials. These include asbestos, lead, mold, PCBs in caulk and mercury. They need to be handled safely and disposed of properly . The types of residential structures that can be demolished include houses, garages, barns, patios, decks, mobile homes, bathrooms, and kitchens as well as driveway and pool removal. Last year, Empire Services refurbished a homeowner’s backyard by removing their pool. Reasons for residential demolition range from renovating a room to removing a structure due to a safety risk.

Commercial Demolition

Unlike residential demolition, commercial demolition projects are larger and require different permits and planning. Heavy equipment, such as cranes, large excavators, and bulldozers, is used instead of small excavators and skid steers due to the size of the structure and building materials. The reasons for a commercial demolition include removing an abandoned or collapsed building, rebuilding on the site or repurposing the lot. Recently, Empire Services demolished portions of a vacant building to stabilize it as well as to protect the remaining structures.

The most frequently used methods of commercial demolition are mechanical (heavy machinery) and deconstruction. However, explosions (or implosions) are used when mechanical or deconstruction are not options. This method involves extensive and accurate planning and controls. Safety is always a top priority for both types of demolition; however, for commercial, it is even more important because of the external factors such as traffic, remaining structures and the public. Also, there are many different regulations attached to commercial projects.

The Similarities Between Residential and Commerical

While there are differences between the two types of demolition, there are similarities. Both require an inspection of the property and the utilities (each utility provider) need to be turned off and disconnected before the demolition process begins. They also require the proper permits and debris to be removed and disposed of properly. There are some materials that can be recycled or salvaged, such as windows, doors, hardware, trim and flooring. The contractor you choose for either type of demolition must be licensed and insured.

Empire Services has the experience and equipment to provide safe, cost-effective residential and commercial demolition services. We have access to over 100 pieces of equipment and provide emergency demolition for various structures. Check out our services to see which ones can make your project run smoothly!

Emergency Demolition of a Collapsed Vacant Building in Reading, PA

Fri, 19 Feb 2021 20:54:48 GMT

Something overlooked by most and often created by large snow events is roof damage. Snowstorms can leave large amounts of snow on a roof, and through multiple freezing and thawing cycles these large snow loads can damage a roof as it compresses, becoming heavier and heavier as it melts. If a roof structure isn’t well constructed and sound, this snow load can result in significant damage or roof collapse. This is the circumstance that caused a roof to collapse, which happened recently on a Friday night in one of the local municipalities. Wooden roof trusses broke and the roof of a three story, former manufacturing facility collapsed, significantly damaging sections of the exterior brick walls, threatening a number of homes across the narrow street, power lines, and multiple utilities.

This is where Empire Services (Empire) comes in. We responded immediately, and within two hours of receiving the emergency call, we had mobilized one of our long reach excavators, a personnel lift, and a backhoe to the site first clearing accumulated snow prior to beginning the demolition and stabilization process. Due to the building’s orientation, Empire had to coordinate demolition work with Met-Ed, UGI and other utilities suppliers to disconnect service to sections of the damaged building and the adjacent power lines. Once the utilities were safely deenergized, Empire was able to demolish and take down the section of dangerously compromised and collapsed structure, performing this very delicate operation! Using a spotter in the personnel lift to guide the operator, ensuring we did not inadvertently create a large collapse and further weaken the damaged structure by removing the wrong building members or trying to remove too much material in a single motion. As darkness fell, flood lights were mobilized and positioned in appropriate places providing adequate lighting for the demolition operations.

Crews worked well into the early morning hours stabilizing the collapsed structure. All of this took place after this particular crew had spent considerable amounts of time removing snow locally during this particular Friday and the earlier part of the week. Residents were able to return home shortly after 2 AM and get back to the routine of their daily lives. The section of building which was in danger of imminent collapse was brought down safely and securely because of the extraordinary efforts of our crew and Empire’s willingness to respond when emergency needs arise.

The next morning, Empire met with the Code Enforcement Official responsible for the area, and it was determined that the building could not remain in its current condition, and there was no hope of appropriately rehabilitating the structure. Demolition currently continues to bring this building down to ground level while removing appropriate construction debris. Once completed, the area will become a graded lot until the local municipality determines an end use for the property.

Our Part in Helping to Revitalize Blighted Homes

Thu, 31 Dec 2020 15:55:58 GMT

Anyone who has driven through the neighborhoods in our local cities and towns has seen the blighted houses which are boarded up, shored up, fenced in, and condemned by Code Enforcement Officers. It’s been a long-standing issue now for cities in this area, and one which only has a limited number of options for correcting. This is especially true if the home has been purchased by a Limited Liability Corporation. Due to the shielding of personal assets that an LLC provides, people can form an LLC, purchase properties, and rent them out until they are no longer habitable. Once this is done they remove the money from the LLC and the building is simply left to sit and deteriorate. When it collapses, there is nothing in the LLC for the municipality to attempt to recover or lien, and so they end up stuck with the bill for the demolition and removal of the structure. Otherwise, people that own these properties do not have the proper insurance if the property is damaged or has a fire, or they have no insurance at all. Which once again leaves the municipality to manage and pay for the cleanup.

This is where Empire Services comes in. We have well-established relationships with the local government bodies, and we are on call with them for their emergency needs. When there is a fire, a vacant structure collapsed completely, or a home needs stabilization, we are one of the first calls they make. Empire Services mobilizes to the site and inspects the building side by side with the Fire Marshall and Code Enforcement. If the structure can be safely stabilized so that it is not a danger to the surrounding houses or the community, then Empire Services immediately undertakes this work and shores up the property until it can be repaired or scheduled for demolition.

If the building can not be stabilized, then it must be demolished. We surgically separate the house from any adjacent properties, removing the floor studs and roofing to ensure we do not damage the surrounding property. Then depending on the situation, the building is demolished using one of our excavators or torn down surgically by hand. And given the impacted condition of the blighted houses, this is no easy task! We inspect and perform any repairs to the brick party walls, remaining baker’s alley, or chimneys to ensure they are stable. It’s important to make sure the properties which remain are left in a safe and stable condition. We team with other local contractors to ensure party walls are waterproofed and have fresh stucco placed on the party wall to seal it and provide a weather tight barrier.

Things are starting to change in our area. Developers are coming in and starting to work on revitalization projects. Empire Services is just trying to do our part. Removing these blighted structures is just one way we can help. Contact us today to learn more about our demolition services!

Understanding the Value of Ownership

Tue, 15 Dec 2020 13:31:45 GMT

It never ceases to amaze me how many times I hear operators or equipment managers making disparaging comments, such as “oh this piece of equipment is junk, needs to be replaced, or can’t get out of its own way,” during site visits, shop visits or impromptu meetings. I am guilty of this myself in years gone by, being critical about the machine I was operating saying it was too slow, didn’t have enough power, or I needed a new one.

Now that I find myself on the other side of the equipment spectrum where I am responsible for purchases, costing and tracking all of the details that are linked with so-called “yellow iron,” I now appreciate what is involved with the ownership of construction equipment. I also have to be patient with those who make the negative comments.

Knowing the major investment involved and the costs of maintaining equipment, it would have certainly changed my perspective in my younger years as I continuously tried to make the machine outperform its capabilities at all costs. Why not? It didn’t really affect me; it was not my money. I routinely greased, maintained lubricants at required levels, and made sure my machine was clean and presentable. What more could I do?

Looking back and considering the investment that is required to purchase equipment (and shop tools) should probably change every current or former operator’s appreciation for the commitment to ownership that is involved. After all, it’s the lifeline to the company’s performance effecting not just profitability, efficiency, and maintenance (and who doesn’t want to operate brand new shiny equipment?). As managers, it is our responsibility to keep the equipment bright and shiny, operating at peak efficiency, reducing repair costs, and keeping the overall integrity of the machinery at its best; thus, allowing best resale value at the end of what we deem as useful lifespan.

I apply these practices every day at work. At Empire Services, I take pride in the work my team completes and the way they respect the equipment, especially after a long day of demolishing a burned- out warehouse or excavating rough land for a new housing development. No matter the job, I make sure our fleet of equipment and my team are ready to take on the next project.

HUNTINGDON ELECTRIC MOTOR SERVICE BUILDING

Mon, 20 Jul 2020 21:04:22 GMT

Empire Services Provides Emergency Demolition of the Huntingdon Electric Motor Service Building

The home of the electric apparatus manufacturer, Huntingdon Electric Motor Service, Inc., in Huntingdon, Pennsylvania, was destroyed in a fire that broke out on May 12th. The fire quickly spread to the adjacent apartment building, displacing nearly 100 residents. The site of the Huntingdon Electric Motor Service Inc. and the adjacent apartment building previously housed the J.C. Blair Paper Company. The history of both buildings makes the loss even more devastating.

The original factory building was built in 1889 by John Chalmers Blair, who invented the paper tablet. It once held the claim of being the tallest building between Philadelphia and Pittsburgh. The company evolved to become ACCO Brand and the plant moved to Alexandria in 1965. In 1969, Huntingdon Electric Motor Service, Inc. moved into the building adjacent to the original factory.

After the fire was assessed, Empire Services, of Reading, Pennsylvania, received a call from Pennsylvania-based Alexander Building Construction to provide emergency demolition services to the four-story building. They were contracted to start demolition immediately, and mobilization took place as soon as the necessary hauling permits were obtained and equipment was available. The emergency nature of the demolition revolved around the building’s location, since it was on a busy state highway. Due to falling debris and the instability of the structure, the highway was closed.

The equipment used in this delicate job included one of Empire’s 95’ UHD long reach excavators and a 125’ personnel lift as well as other various support equipment to move and stage materials for final removal. The Empire Services crew removed the front portion of the structure down to two levels, creating a safe environment for the public and any other future site activities.

The initial phase of the demolition consisted of removing the most unstable portions of the building adjacent to the state highway for possible re-opening of this busy road and to assist with any upcoming salvage efforts by the building owner. Once the recovery phases have been completed, the balance of the damaged building will be removed in its entirety, allowing a full re-opening of surrounding streets.

WOOLWORTH’S – YORK, PA

Thu, 31 Aug 2017 00:00:00 GMT

AUGUST, 2016 – FORMER WOOLWORTH’S IN YORK, PA

In August of 2016, Empire Services was hard at work in York, Pennsylvania. RSCD, previously known as Royal Square Development and Construction, brought Empire on board to help them convert what was once a Woolworth’s store on West Market Street into a building featuring retail space on the first floor and 21 one-bedroom and two-bedroom apartments above it. The project entailed careful wall-to-wall demolition in the front of the building and complete demolition behind it - which will become parking spaces. Empire Services is scheduled to complete this project on time, and RSCD’s timeline for completion of the entire project is August of 2017.

BETHLEHEM SILK MILL

Wed, 31 Aug 2016 00:00:00 GMT

JULY – AUGUST, 2016

A crew of four experts from Empire Services demolished part of the Bethlehem Silk Mill, which was damaged by fire a decade ago. The buildings, which became an eyesore in the historic neighborhood, were demolished to create space to build new student housing for nearby Moravian College . The crew, working for Boiler Construction, utilized a John Deere 450 95-foot long reach excavator (see photos below), and a 290 excavator to load materials. The Empire crew, led by supervisor Troy Sweigert, salvaged all wood and timber for the owner of the property.

The Bethlehem Silk Mill, the largest silk mill in Pennsylvania, was originally constructed in 1886 and made of red brick with a stone foundation. The factory, which created military parachutes, closed in 1952. The plans for the new apartment complex include several five-story structures housing 89 apartments.

WAWA – UPPER DARBY

Thu, 30 Jun 2016 00:00:00 GMT

APRIL-JUNE, 2016

The site of a future Wawa convenience store in Upper Darby, PA, was all business on Monday, April 18th. In addition to the site supervisor who oversaw the operation, one member of the Empire Services demolition crew ran the large 450 John Deere with a 95' boom, another ran the 321 Caterpillar excavator, and two more prepared a nearby structure for demolition. One of 12 buildings on this approximately 1-acre site was in the middle of being torn down by the John Deere (photos below).

At the start of the project in mid-April, the Empire Services crew cleared the four buildings at the center of this site, to create a staging area and a place to crush and consolidate demolition debris (photos below). This debris will remain on site to be used as backfill. The crew will then move on to demolishing houses along the exterior of the site, ending in early June of 2016.

BEFORE DEMOLITION

DURING DEMOLITION

BETHLEHEM PARKING AUTHORITY

Thu, 31 Mar 2016 00:00:00 GMT

MARCH, 2016

It took approximately one month for an Empire Services crew demolished seven framed structures in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania to make way for a parking garage. The project was completed in conjunction with the Bethlehem Parking Authority and Boyle Construction, with whom Empire Services has worked in the past.

Before beginning demolition, Empire Services collaborated with sister company Elk Environmental on asbestos abatement. All seven structures required abatement to some extent. Elk Environmental removed the asbestos and universal waste and cleaned an underground storage tank. Then Empire Services removed it. Fellow sister company Delaware Valley Contractors (DVC) also helped moving materials to and from the site.

The height of several structures required use of the 65' long reach. Following the demolition portion of the project, the site was back-filled, a process that you see in photos below.

Photos show the site before demolition, during, and after completion of the project.

BEFORE DEMOLITION

DURING DEMOLITION

AFTER DEMOLITION COMPLETION

CITY OF LEBANON REVITALIZATION

Thu, 31 Jul 2014 00:00:00 GMT

SUMMER, 2014

Empire Services recently demolished three dozen vacant houses as part of an economic revitalization project in the city of Lebanon, PA. The project, on Lebanon’s north side, is related to the construction of the Norfolk Southern Railroad overpasses.

The vacant homes, located between the dual bridges on North Ninth and North 10th streets, were acquired by the city. Bob Nocera, a 32-year veteran employee of Empire Services, operated the excavator to demolish many of the houses and the printing building. They posed a challenge because of its location close to the bridge.

The newly cleared 3.5-acre site will be prepared for commercial development and sold. Possible uses include offices, retail space, and light industrial businesses. The project was funded by a state grant. It was decided the rundown neighborhood should be demolished because of its location near the railroad overpasses and was better suited for industrial rather than residential properties.

Empire Services was chosen for the job partly based on its excellent history working with the city of Lebanon. Previously, Empire Services demolished about five dozen properties to make way for the new twin Norfolk Southern Railroad overpasses.

“Empire Services was chosen for the job partly based on its excellent history working with the city of Lebanon.”

INTERNATIONAL WAXES, INC.

Mon, 30 Jun 2014 00:00:00 GMT

JUNE, 2014

Empire Wrecking Co., of Reading, PA, doing business as Empire Services, began an intricate and challenging project at International Waxes, Inc. The job included the demolition and stabilization of several buildings damaged by an explosion that took place in May 2014. The buildings included two retort furnaces and three filter buildings, built in adjoining structures in the 1920s and '30s. International Waxes is a major supplier of wax for use in packaging, candles, tires, and adhesives.

Empire received the first call about the project from Philadelphia-based Matrix SME, the engineering firm working with International Waxes Inc. Matrix and Empire worked together on past projects in the Philadelphia area.

Empire’s Allen Dejewski, Vice President and Dean Smith, Vice President of Operations visited the 575-acre campus in Farmer’s Valley, PA. They studied the unstable condition of the structures, and created a scope of work for the massive job.

The complicated process included stabilization and removal of brick facades that were damaged and in imminent danger of collapse. Insulated pipes, some containing asbestos, were attached to the structures and were supporting the loosened façade. The job required abatement and removal of the pipes to be sure of the safety of the structure and the workers.

“We had to remove facades from the structures first, to access the furnaces,” said Smith. “While removing the façade, we had to deal with different types of pipes that were active and inactive. The brick façade was protruding in and around the pipes, which were holding the brick façade in place. It was a very delicate process and I am very proud of the efforts of our team. When faced with challenges and adversity, they showed great pride in their work and overcame those particular challenges.”

Along with the damage cleanup and demolition, many other features were removed to upgrade and modernize the facility, while reducing maintenance and increasing productivity. Included in the items demolished were multi-story building facades, process lines and equipment, material elevators, vessels, entire building structures, and two antiquated wax retort furnaces
that approached heights of 110 feet. Adding to the complexity of the job was the fact that the facility remained at 40 percent utilization during the demolition.

Empire removed facades, pipes, and other appurtenances at International Waxes prior to demolishing the two furnaces. Empire also stabilized and demolished parts of three adjoining filter buildings, referred to as the 5-ton building, the 7-ton building, and the 16-ton building. “The complexity of the work was due to the fact that no heavy equipment could be used on the filter buildings due to their centralized location and the intricacies of the wax processing pipes,” said Smith.

The 5-ton filter building was completely demolished. Only the thick brick façade was removed from the 16-ton filter building. The Empire crew removed the layers of brick by hand from the building. The steel structure inside the 16-ton building was saved for the rebuilding effort.

The original plan for the 7-ton filter building was to only remove the brick façade. However, during the process, Empire staff discovered that the structural design of the building would not facilitate the removal of the façade and the building would have to be completely disassembled. On request of International Waxes, the main structural steel and filters inside the 7-ton filter building were salvaged and utilized during the rebuilding.

As abatement and demolition commenced on several locations inside the 80-foot wide by 300-foot long footprint, alternate methods had to be designed to achieve abatement of the retort furnace to maintain the aggressive schedule. After approval for a variance with DEP, Empire removed the structure around the furnace and completed the abatement with a 95-foot long reach excavator .

During this critical project, Empire utilized multiple pieces of owned and rental equipment to perform the sensitive demolition, including a John Deere 450 95-foot long reach excavator, conventional excavators, backhoes, shears, and a 300-ton hydraulic crane for higher work.

Empire Services' demolition work was led by Smith and Jerry Jones, Site Supervisor and Project Manager. They mobilized a crew of more than 15 workers from various locations. Empire staff worked closely with International Waxes, Inc. employees.

After the demolition was complete, Empire assisted Matrix SME with the rebuilding efforts. The rebuilding was led by Mario Costa, Matrix Superintendent assisted by John Bosco, Empire Superintendent. During this phase of the work, Empire provided excavation and back-fill of foundations and miscellaneous pipework.

Empire Services’ sister company, Delaware Valley Contractors (DVC), provided the roll-off service and transported demolished materials. Empire crews removed and disposed of approximately 2,000 tons of material from the site.

READING HEALTH SYSTEM SPRING RIDGE CAMPUS

Sat, 31 May 2014 00:00:00 GMT

MAY, 2014

EMPIRE RESPONDS TO SINKHOLE EMERGENCY AT READING HEALTH SYSTEM'S SPRING RIDGE CAMPUS

It was 12:30 p.m. on Sat. May 10, 2014, when Empire received the emergency call. A 30-by-40-foot sinkhole had opened up in a grassy area in the parking lot of Reading Health System’s Spring Ridge Campus.

Experts from Empire Services, Delaware Valley Contractors (DVC), and Delaware Valley Utility Contractors (DVUC) – three subsidiary companies within the Empire Group – arrived on the scene within 30 minutes. The crews worked through Mother’s Day weekend to restore safety and stability to the site.

“First, all utilities had to be located and shut off,” said Dean Smith, Vice President of Operations of Empire Services. “Then we started to dig out all the mud with a John Deere 200 excavator
. Next we used a Dickinson crane to remove the water meter pit.”

Reading Health System officials reported to the media that the sinkhole occurred in the worst possible spot - where all the campus’ utility and telecommunications systems connect to external lines. They said the sinkhole might have been caused by a snapped water line.

An OSHA official from Harrisburg arrived at the site on Mon. May 12. “The OSHA inspection went very well,” said Smith. “We were in compliance with all regulations.”

The surgery and medical center closed through Monday. The next day, all utilities were restored and the facility reopened.

Empire’s work continued for the next two weeks, and included filling in the 17-foot deep hole with 230 tons of stone, followed by lean concrete, soil, and then blacktop.

“This was a really outstanding combined effort,” said Smith. “These guys answer the call on a weekend because they have great pride in their work, and in every job we do.”

GRAND OLD LADY (WATT & SHAND) OF LANCASTER PA

Tue, 30 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

MAY, 2014

GRAND OLD LADY (WATT & SHAND) OF LANCASTER PA

After more than a decade of dispute over what was to be done with the former Watt & Shand building, her future was determined.

Penn Square Partners, the Lancaster County Convention Center Authority, and the Redevelopment Authority of the city of Lancaster, the current building owner, decided to build a 300-room Marriott Hotel and 220,000-square foot convention center at the former store site, and along the east side of the first block of South Queen Street.

Penn Square Partners put together a construction package to construct a hotel and convention center. The demolition of the buildings on this city block was put out to public bid, and Empire Wrecking of Reading, PA was awarded the contract to remove the Watt & Shand Structure and several other structures to make way for the new hotel and convention center.

Empire Wrecking mobilized with several pieces of equipment, a John Deere 330 excavator with a 66’ long reach boom, a Hitachi 450 with a 91’ long reach boom, and assorted other pieces to support the long reach excavators equipped with there grapple and shears. Empire started on the south end of the project dismantling several structures by hand, working closely with the Lancaster Historical Society to save a piece of history in Lancaster.

The Watt & Shand sign, which was removed from the building in the fall, is currently in storage and may be reincorporated into the building, donated or sold, this is yet to be determined.

Presently Empire is dismantling the Watt & Shand structure, while a structural steel to stabilize the ornate limestone façade store front is to remain as the new front of the hotel that is planned for construction. Empire is carefully dismantling the six-story structure from the rear working toward the front of the building. They are removing elevators, escalators, and stairwells which all structurally tie this building together. They were put together as several additions over the years as the business grew.

Empire has to cut the structure away from the front façade by hand back to the first column line as not to disturb the front façade, as well as remove the structure. It stands 2 to 3 stories over adjoining structures. On the south side of the Watt & Shand structure towers or an adjoining structure that is adorned with a slate roof that is over a 100 years in age. The project management and field supervision has spent many hours devising a method to protect the fragile slate roof and still be able to remove the tons of brick above.

This is a project that the city of Lancaster, PA can be proud of when complete, as well as Empire is proud to say they are happy they had a very competent construction management team of Reynolds Construction, Penn Square Partners, the Cooper Carey Architects, and the Lancaster County Historical Society.

“We put the past 50+ years of experience to work for every customer.”

ST. JOSEPH’S HOSPITAL

Sat, 31 Jan 2009 00:00:00 GMT

JANUARY, 2009

On this project, Empire worked under the direction of Turner Construction, the construction management company on this particular site. This project included the remediation of hazardous materials, selective demolition, total demolition, and façade stabilization of various portions of the hospital.As part of this bid package was the task of videoing all underground piping that might be reused, fencing of the entire site and all weather protection where walls and roof sections were removed. The original stone building of the hospital dated back to 1882, and was expanded at least six times over their many years to a massive 400,000 sq ft building along with a group of row homes and a 65,000 sq ft parking garage. The terrain is severely sloped with the first floor of the structure at street level in the front and the fourth floor at street level in the back. In actuality this was not the first part of the major demolition as Empire started the initial phase of the work in February 2007 with the demolition of the adjoining property to the hospital. This structure was a five story, 72,000 sq ft doctor’s office building and a concrete parking garage totaling 34,000 sq ft. Upon completion of both demolition projects, the property changed ownership to the Reading School District for the construction of the future Reading Citadel Intermediate School.

Initially the bid date given was for an immediate start, but the award bid date was delayed for three months. Due to additional delays with permits and utilities the work did not start for an additional two months with the owner’s request that Empire’s work was to be completed and demobilized based on the original start date given.

The project required four buildings to remain standing, one being the original historic chapel located centrally among all of the demolition. Additionally, three exterior walls and a tower of the original stone structure had to remain independently intact to be incorporated into to the new proposed structure. This posed challenges that only a well organized team could conquer. One of the walls to remain was attached to the chapel and needed steel shoring with foundations in place for the wall to stand alone prior to separating and complete demolition of the remainder of the building. The tower and two other walls also required steel shoring. To erect the steel shoring, a JD80 Excavator needed to be crane lifted over the four story building and placed into the courtyard to excavate for the footers. Next, the concrete for the foundations had to be pumped into the interior of the courtyard. Then the steel shoring was partially assembled in the rear parking lot and lifted over the building and placed into the courtyard using a 300 ton hydraulic rock crane. The four buildings to remain were completely gutted of all interior finishes and mechanical systems to make way for the future Reading Citadel School. At the rear of the property, the prestressed 65,000 sq ft concrete parking garage was demolished and the resulting concrete from the garage, footers and walls were crushed and stockpiled on site to be used as future backfill material. All other demolition debris was hauled away using dumpsters and trailers to our sister company Berks Transfer to be recycled.

With all eyes on Empire as the Prime Contractor the project was accomplished with a team of over fifty laborers, five operating engineers, four foremen and a superintendent. At one point in the job there were over seventy workers on site between the subcontractors and Empire’s work force.

Empire utilized the services of various subcontractors to handle different aspects of the project such as electrical disconnects, capping, and relocation to keep temporary power in the buildings to remain. A sprinkler contractor was hired to separate systems and maintain fire protection operation as long as possible as per city codes. It was also necessary to rework standpipe systems so that the buildings to remain would have fire protection until such time as the new sprinklers were installed. Asbestos removal was a major portion of this project with thousands of feet of pipe insulation in the walls and underground tunnels as well as numerous areas of sprayed on fireproofing and transite panels. Thanks to the expertise of the asbestos contractor and their staff on site they were able to keep ahead of the demolition process and assist in adhering to the schedule. Empire hired both a structural steel and a foundation contractor to help in the underpinning and stabilization of existing sandstone walls of the original hospital structure to be salvaged and incorporated back into the new Reading Citadel School. Elk Environmental, a sister company of Empire Wrecking was contracted to explore, remediate, and secure any underground cisterns discovered during excavation.

In addition to all the subcontract work on this project, Empire had to complete over 200,000 sq ft of interior demolition which included the general hospital area, operating room and two large mechanical rooms. This had to be done without the use of motorized equipment due to the allowable floor loads of the buildings.

Prior to demolition, the first step was the remediation of all asbestos containing materials. This process along with the other subcontractors had to be coordinated to assure the schedule of twenty six weeks. By aggressive planning Empire Wrecking was able to complete the project two weeks ahead of schedule. This was possible because the Empire Wrecking team accelerated the pace by mobilizing additional equipment, with four excavators simultaneously excavating, hammering concrete, munching walls, and pulverizing footers . At the height of the project there were five sub contractors involved with the project and five different locations being worked on at the same time.

The demolition presented serious challenges. This was not a simple task as all of the buildings interconnected with other buildings – some of which were to stay and some which were to be taken down and still others that were to have just the exterior walls remain. This project utilized an experienced work force at these areas of separation. The only building that stood alone was a precast concrete parking garage. This part of the project was completed with the use of two 450 JD Ultra High excavators; a 300 Ultra High excavator, and numerous other equipment with grapples, hammers and processor attachments.

Empire completed the job including all change orders and the coordinating of additional asbestos, underground tank removals and over excavation of contaminated material and disposal on schedule. As always, Empire Wrecking Co. proved they were up to the Challenge

Since leaving the site the general package for renovating the remaining buildings and construction of the new school has been awarded to a General Contractor with Empire going back to the site once again for the final fit out as a subcontractor. This will consist of minor demolition, exterior wall openings, roof removals, new floor openings etc.

LANCASTER GENERAL HOSPITAL NURSING DORM

Sun, 31 Aug 2008 00:00:00 GMT

AUGUST, 2008

NADC member Empire Wrecking knew the demolition job for Lancaster General Hospital they were undertaking wasn’t going to be an easy one. The general contractor presented them with a tough task: tear down a seven-story concrete building in just nine weeks. Demolishing the center-city building without closing any streets was a challenge. And most importantly, they could not interrupt business at the adjoining building, one of the busiest regional hospitals in southeastern Pennsylvania.

Tight quarters and a tight schedule were only two of the challenges Empire Wrecking, headquartered in Reading, Pa, faced when called on to demolish the seven story student residence for the School of Nursing. The demolition of the building was required to make way for a major expansion to the adjacent hospital. The reinforced concrete structure, originally built in 1967 to house over 200 student nurses, had 117 dormitory rooms and contained an auditorium, laboratories, classrooms, and a library.

L.F. Driscoll Construction in Philadelphia was the construction company and Warfel Construction of Lancaster, Pa was the general contractor on the project.

The $325,000 demolition job began with laborers dismantling the interior of the building. Ceiling tiles, carpets, counters, drywall, flooring -- it all went out to the trucks sitting on a neighboring parking lot.

Empire started out by completely gutting the inside of all landfill materials. There were in excess of 900 cubic yards of material removed. When done, there was a clean concrete building that could be taken to a clean site for dumping.

Prior to Empire starting to dismantle the adjoining dormitory building from the existing hospital (which was to remain) there had to be roof protection built and the windows covered on the adjoining glass corridor walls.

Empire could now begin the separation. Empire began this process by lifting, a skid loader, and a Brokk equipped with a hydraulic hammer on top of the roof with a 45-ton crane.

Starting on the roof, Empire began hammering concrete and burning steel rods floor by floor, averaging approximately one floor every day and a half. With operators and laborers working six to ten-hour days, Empire accomplished this in just two weeks. Due to the tight time restraints, demolition on the front half had to begin before the total separation was completed.

Empire chose to tackle this task with a 125-ton crane, equipped with a drop ball and a Hitachi 300 long stick demolition machine, equipped with a UP20 concrete pulverizer. The combination of the 8”-thick concrete floors and 75% of the interior walls being 10” concrete instead of the standard masonry and drywall, these two machines complimented each other well and proved to be the machinery of choice.

In addition to having to deal with the attached buildings, an active sewer line ran right through the building and had to remain functional at all times. The sewer line servicing the hospital and at only 2 ½' below the existing floor it had to stay; Empire crews had to work around that.

One of the main traffic arteries going through the city was within 15’ of the structure, so the crew had to handle traffic and flying debris as well.

Empire’s instructions were to not consider shutting down the street. On one side, there was the street to deal with. On the other side was a parking garage within 18’ which required plywood protection, and the all the roofs needed protection. It was a very tight situation limiting the equipment that could be used. Due to working in a residential area, there were two fire hoses spraying water at all times which kept the dust down and made the neighbors happy.

Once the building was on the ground, Empire had a two-story pile of concrete and time was running out. Empire assembled four track-hoes with hammers, pulverizers, and buckets. Trucks lined the street and the crews moved 4000 yards of tangled-up reinforced concrete in nine days.

The main challenge, however, was working right next to the busy hospital without disrupting their normal business. There was literally an eight-inch block wall separating the demolition area from the surgical area. The hospital remained in operation for the entire time of the project and only twice did we have to stop for an hour at a shot, because they were doing a procedure that required quiet.

To meet the tight nine-week deadline, the Empire Wrecking crew of laborers and equipment operators worked six days a week, 10 hour days. City regulations restricted the crews to working only until 7 pm and no Sunday hours.

After nine weeks, there was only an empty lot where the 46,000 sq. ft., seven-story nurses' residence stood. “We finished the job on time and on budget,” says Todd O’Neill, Vice President of Empire Wrecking. “The hospital stayed open, the street stayed open, and no one posed any problems or had any complaints.”

Thanks to the dedication and experience of the Empire employees, the job was finished not only on time but safely.

PENN NATIONAL RACETRACK

Thu, 31 Jul 2008 00:00:00 GMT

JULY, 2008

After securing a Pennsylvania state gaming license, Penn National Gaming Inc. of Wyomissing, PA determined their next step was to build a Hollywood-themed casino with racetrack and slot parlor on the site of the existing Penn National race track facility. To pave the way for a new grandstand and slot parlor, Carlino Development and Reynolds Construction secured the services of NADC, member Empire Wrecking Co. of Reading, PA (Empire) to handle the enormous task of the demolition of the existing facilities. The primary objective of Empire was to demolish the 34-year-old racetrack grandstand located on Route 743 in Grantville, PA.

Accordingly, Empire began the project with the removal of several individual buildings to allow for the construction of new support buildings and equine stalls. As demo of this initial phase approached completion, Empire swiftly began phase two of the demolition of the historic Penn National half-mile dirt stock car track’s interior and exterior concrete perimeter. Empire tackled the stock car track’s concrete wall with a John Deere 450 grapple machine and a 330 with a digging bucket. In this phase, Empire hauled away 365 loads of concrete to its dump site. Some of the pieces of the concrete walls were over 28 feet long and weighed in excess of 20 tons, necessitating the need for a specialty trailer to haul the massive pieces of concrete. In conjunction with the demolition and removal of the concrete walls, Empire’s professional team utilized a John Deere 330 to rip down the grandstand and John Deere 270 machine to hammer and remove concrete. When the “dust had settled,” Empire had hauled 15 loads of scrap metal, 365 loads of concrete and 27 loads of debris. The entire process of tearing down the stock car track and grandstands took approximately three weeks and was completed on time and within budget. This area will be used for future expansion.

Upon completion of the first two phases of the project and immediately upon notice to proceed, Empire commenced with the demolition of the main grandstand building. This structure consisted of four stories equaling 300,000 sq. ft. and was used for viewing daily horse racing, simulcast wagering, and administrative offices.

Empire was afforded just sixty days to complete the project or risk a hefty $10,000 a day liquidation penalty. With the purpose of meeting the critical deadline, Empire mobilized their Hitachi 450 with the 95-ft. boom and their newl-acquired John Deere 450DLC, also with a 95-ft. long boom. John Deere, Plasterer Equipment, and Lemac worked closely with Empire to have the machine delivered to the site and set up in time for the groundbreaking. The John Deere 450DLC was one of the first to hit the market and the boom was actually sent to Lemac for modification prior to this machine being released for shipment. This modification was exactly what was needed for the start of the job and to make it possible to meet the deadline. The combination of the two machines made quick work of this concrete and steel monster. As demo of the grandstand building continued, Empire also mobilized several loaders along with John Deere excavators ranging in size from 200 to 350 series to separate and load the enormous amounts of debris, steel, and concrete further enabling Empire to keep the project on schedule.

In the process of tearing down this famous facility, many different attachments were added to the equipment utilized on the project. At any given time, there were two Labounty shears in operation to cut the steel to a length that would fit into the numerous trailers used to haul the scrap and debris to facilities. In addition, Empire had concrete processors on site to crunch the concrete to proper size to be hauled away in the tri-axles and trailers.

Moreover, the project was staffed with one superintendent, two working foremen, and ten full-time laborers. Empire had numerous laborers picking through the processed concrete to remove all steel and debris to make the material suitable to be used as clean fill on another project. There were nine operating engineers assigned to handle the variety of equipment in use and fifteen trucks on-site to move the massive piles of scrap and debris. As the targeted completion date neared, Empire was able to downsize its crew of professionals. At the end of the project, it was determined that Empire had moved 3,000 tons of debris along with 1900 loads of concrete and dirt, as well as 2500 tons of steel from the grandstand area.

The Empire crew worked five ten-hour days and eight hours on Saturday. Work hours on the main grandstand had to be curtailed from 7 am to 9 am in order to allow the horses on the track for their morning workouts (any loud noises or amount of dust could potentially spook the thoroughbred horses). Empire utilized the time to focus on the front side of the building, thus ensuring that there were no problems or interruptions to the horses’ daily schedule.

Despite the sizable project, the aggressive timeline, and logistical restrictions, Empire’s highly-qualified team rose to the challenge, as always, and handled the project with expertise and professionalism. Completing jobs of this size on budget and on time is only possible by having good people within your company that stand up to the challenge and handle it. From the estimators, operations managers, operators, dispatcher, superintendent, foremen, truck drivers, and laborers - all performed admirably. This is proof that it takes a true team effort.

HARRISBURG FACILITY INCINERATOR

Thu, 30 Sep 2004 00:00:00 GMT

SEPTEMBER, 2004

The Harrisburg Authority decided it was time to replace their incinerator structure. NADC member Empire Services once again was out to prove that they are the company to call and had the team to perform the necessary work for the excavator demolition project. Prove it they did! The Harrisburg Materials, Energy, Recycling, and Recovery Facility has been engaged in the business of combusting municipal solid waste for over thirty years. The facility was originally constructed and placed into commercial operation in 1972. The original plant consisted of two mass -burn combustion units, each designed to combust 360 tons per day.

Empire Services had 44 days to complete the project. It consisted of the removal of two large precipitator units, dismantlement of two 90’ incinerators, removal of two overhead cranes from inside the building, demolition of the cooling tower, ash building, sludge bins, turbines and mechanicals throughout the incinerator, and turbine buildings. With this time frame, it was necessary for Empire Services to create scheduling that allowed the crew to handle this difficult project in the most efficient and safe manner possible. Empire determined the work schedule would require two ten-hour shifts with twenty men on each shift. They also decided that the roof and steel beams would be left in place to avoid any possible loss of time due to weather problems. This decision assisted in providing temporary lighting and a location for the workers to tie off when doing high work. With this workforce, Empire met the required deadline to complete the demolition project. This was due in no small part to the crew assigned to this job and their dedication to getting the job done.

Prior to the start of the work, Empire was required to develop a dust control plan to deal with the enormous amount of ash build-up throughout the building which had to be approved by DEP. This was accomplished through Empire’s sister company, Elk Environmental, which washed down the entire facility, filtering all the water to prevent sludge and ash from entering the sanitary sewer system. Air monitoring was used in the facility and employees themselves were checked with hand held monitoring devices. A genuine concern of Empire is to provide a safe working environment for their employees. Any and all safety issues were addressed with the presence of Empire’s Safety Officer onsite. There were weekly Safety Meetings held and continuous onsite safety inspections.

One of the many hurdles Empire had to overcome was that the main building had to remain intact in preparation for the new incinerator. The first step was to remove the precipitators which were 40 feet above the roof of the one building and 30 feet below into the basement. The precipitators were removed using our 95’ long boom Hitachi 450equipped with a LaBounty MS15 shear. The use of specialized equipment and trained employees allowed Empire to perform within the confines of the job site.

The next step was to insert a twenty-foot wide corridor within the concrete walls to allow access into the building. With the precipitators removed, Empire installed a ramp to gain access into the basement at which time all the conveyors and mechanicals were removed. This allowed the workers room to attack the main incinerators. The north wall was removed and the dismantlement could begin.

The top ten feet of the incinerator pressure vessels had to be burned out by hand so that the long reach could be used for the removal of the remaining portion of the structure. The main dismantlement of the incinerators required the Hitachi 450 with 95’ long boom and the Hitachi 300 with 70’ long boom and LaBounty UP20 shear and grapples. The entire height of the incinerators reached 95’.

During this time, several crews worked throughout the two buildings removing mechanicals, numerous tanks, the turbine, and the entire concrete and steel second floor in the turbine building.

Upon completing the incinerator the 8” thick concrete roof and steel needed to be removed. Due to tight working conditions, Empire decided to mobilize our Brokk machine equipped with a hammer. This made quick work of the process. This machine was also used to remove the roof area over the loading bins where Empire needed to remove and reinstall the concrete, steel, and decking to gain access to the overhead cranes. The overhead cranes weighing 45,000 pounds each were removed using a 150-ton Omega crane. The Brokk machine was also used in removing the entire second floor deck in the turbine building.

As the project ended, Empire had removed in excess of 2000 tons of scrap, and 1200 tons of ash.

From beginning to end of this demolition project, Empire was responsible for all aspects of this job including safety barriers, OSHA railings, lay-down area fencing, and all utility disconnects.

The entire Empire team was commended by the GC on this particular demolition project for their coordination of the all stages and working well together on a very difficult endeavor.

If it is a demolition project of any size requiring expertise and skill, Empire Services is the company to contact.

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