Emergency demolition projects often come with unique challenges, but when historical preservation is involved, the stakes are even higher. At Empire Services, we specialize in tackling these complex situations with expertise and precision, ensuring that both safety and historical integrity are maintained. Our recent partial emergency demolition project on Penn Street in Reading, PA, is a perfect example of how we combine quick response times, specialized equipment, and skilled teamwork to protect valuable structures.
Precision Emergency Demolition: Preserving History at Penn Street
Empire Services • March 24, 2025
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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. 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 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 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 service.
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 highlights from this year.
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 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. 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!
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!
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!
