How to Know When It’s Time to Tear Down That Shed, Deck, or Fence
Old sheds, rotting decks, and leaning fences are more than just an eyesore—they can be a liability, a barrier to new projects, and a drain on your property’s value. Whether you’re planning a remodel, selling your home, or just want your outdoor space back, knowing when it’s time for demolition is key.
At OJB Solutions, we help Portland-area property owners make smart decisions about when to repair, renovate, or tear it all down and start fresh. Here’s how to tell when it’s time to say goodbye to that old structure.
1. Structural Damage That’s Beyond Repair
If your shed is sagging, your deck bounces underfoot, or your fence is leaning dangerously, you’re likely dealing with rotted wood, water damage, or failed footings. Some signs that mean it’s time for removal:
Soft or spongy wood in beams or posts
Visible mold or rot
Warping, cracking, or bowing
Rusting fasteners or corroded brackets
Loose railings or stairs
In most cases, repairs are only temporary. Tearing it down and rebuilding with code-compliant materials can be faster, safer, and more cost-effective.
2. You’re Planning a Remodel or Rebuild
If you're updating your backyard, adding onto your house, or redoing your landscaping, demoing the old structure opens the door to better options.
Here’s when removal makes sense:
You need space for a new patio, garage, or ADU
You're switching from wood decking to Trex or composite
You’re upgrading curb appeal before selling the home
You’re dealing with non-permitted or poorly-built structures
Our team at OJB can coordinate with your contractor or landscape designer to safely clear the space, prep the site, and even handle debris hauling and permitting.
3. It’s Becoming a Safety Hazard
Neglected outdoor structures can become unsafe fast—especially in the rainy Pacific Northwest. We regularly remove sheds and decks in Portland that are:
Housing pests or rodents
Full of broken glass or rusty nails
Not up to Oregon building code
Prone to collapse in wind or heavy snow
Even if the structure looks okay from a distance, a weak foundation or hidden rot can make it dangerous. If you’re not sure, we offer fast, no-pressure inspections.
4. The Cost of Repair Exceeds the Cost of Demo
Trying to “save” a decaying structure often ends up costing more in the long run. New footings, new joists, replacing multiple panels—it all adds up.
Here’s a quick rule of thumb:
If repair costs are more than 50% of a rebuild, it’s almost always better to tear it down.
Our demolition pricing is transparent, and we include junk removal, clean-up, and responsible disposal so there are no surprises.
5. You’re Dealing with HOA, Permit, or Code Violations
If you’ve been cited by the city or your HOA for a structure that’s too tall, too close to the property line, or unpermitted, demolition might be the simplest fix.
We can:
Check for permit history
Handle the tear-down and haul-away
Make sure your site is clean and code-ready
Offer rebuild referrals through our licensed contractor network
What OJB Solutions Offers
We’re more than just demo labor. OJB Solutions is a licensed, insured, full-service contractor. Here’s how we help:
Shed removal – including concrete pads and junk inside
Deck demo – Trex, cedar, pressure-treated, composite
🛠️ Fence tear-downs – wood, chain link, vinyl
Eco-conscious disposal – donation, recycling, landfill diversion
Same-day and weekend availability
Permit handling and site prep for rebuilds
Serving Portland, Beaverton, Gresham, and Beyond
From inner SE Portland to the suburbs of Tigard, Hillsboro, Oregon City, and beyond—we’re your local demolition team for outdoor structure removal. Whether you’re a homeowner, investor, or contractor needing fast teardown before a flip, we show up on time, clean up thoroughly, and do the job right.
Ready to Reclaim Your Space?
Don’t let that rotting shed, unsafe deck, or broken-down fence drag down your property. Call the pros at OJB Solutions for a free quote, a fast timeline, and no-hassle service.
(503) 882-0704
contact@oregonjunkbusters.com
ojbsolutions.com
