Renovating vs. Repurposing: What is the Difference?

Empire Services • March 2, 2023

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Renovation is the purpose of improving or fixing damaged or outdated structures.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 Most repurposing projects are done on outdated (or historical) structures, and may include improving certain architectural features (e.g., windows).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.


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Celebrating 70 Years With an Inspiring Timeline

By Empire Services • November 24, 2025
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 reveal 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

By Empire Services • November 17, 2025
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

By Empire Services • October 28, 2025
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 hav ing 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.

Empire Group Hosts 30th Annual Golf Classic

By Empire Services • October 14, 2025
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!

Wrapping Up a Hot Summer

By Empire Services • September 29, 2025
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.

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

By Empire Services • September 15, 2025
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.

Empire Services Tackles a Complex Industrial Demolition

By Empire Services • September 2, 2025
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 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 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.
Empire Services

A New Water Service for Cathedral Village

By Empire Services • August 20, 2025
Empire Services, an Empire Group affiliate, was contacted by general contractor P.J. Dick to install a domestic water line in Cathedral Village’s Philadelphia (PA) facility. Cathedral Village is a large multi-state retirement community offering a variety of living options and a total of 416 units.

Transforming Underutilized Spaces at Governor Mifflin Middle School & High School

By Empire Services • July 15, 2025
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.

Celebrating 70 Years of Transformation: The Empire Group Timeline

By Empire Services • July 1, 2025
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!
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