An old backyard shed rarely fails all at once. The roof goes soft, a wall bows, the floor rots through where it meets the ground, and eventually it is a snow-load hazard full of rusted tools. Taking it apart safely is a different job than building one.
LaFata Disposal Services demolishes and removes wood, vinyl and metal sheds, garden barns, playsets, chicken coops, carports and small outbuildings throughout the Syracuse area — including whatever is stored inside.
Central New York snow load takes a real toll on flat and low-pitch shed roofs. If a structure has already partially collapsed, do not go inside it. We brace and pull rather than climb on something that is already failing.
Structures we tear down
- Wood and vinyl storage sheds
- Rusted metal and aluminum sheds
- Garden barns and lean-tos
- Wooden playsets, swing sets and treehouses
- Chicken coops and animal hutches
- Small carports and canopy frames
- Rotted decks, ramps and platforms
- Concrete blocks, skids and shed floors
How a shed demolition goes
1. Site look and quote
We look at size, construction, what is stored inside, and whether a truck can get near the structure or everything has to be carried out.
2. Empty the contents
Tools, paint cans, bagged fertilizer, bikes and boxes come out first. Household hazardous materials such as paint and chemicals need county drop-off and we will flag those.
3. Controlled tear-down
Roof first, then walls, then floor and skids. We pull nails and stack material as we go rather than making one large pile.
4. Load, rake and leave it clean
Everything goes in the truck, and we rake the footprint for nails and shingle debris so the yard is safe to walk on.
Who calls for shed demolition
- Homeowners with a shed that failed under snow
- Sellers who need a structure gone before an appraisal or inspection
- Buyers clearing a neglected backyard after closing
- Families removing an outgrown playset
- Landscapers making room for a patio, pool or new build
Concrete pads and full slab foundations are a separate scope; tell us if you want the pad broken up as well and we will quote it.
Shed demolitions are often combined with yard waste or garage cleanouts on the same visit, since the same crew and truck are already on site.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a permit to demolish a shed?
Small accessory structures usually do not require one, but rules vary by town in Onondaga County. Check with your local codes office if the shed is large or on a permanent foundation.
Can you remove the concrete pad too?
Often yes. Breaking and hauling concrete is priced separately because of the weight involved.
What if the shed is full of junk?
That is normal. We clear the contents first and include it in the quote so nothing is left behind.
Can you work around a fence or tight side yard?
Yes. Cutting the structure into small sections lets us carry material out through a standard gate when the truck cannot back in.