How Large Excavators Reach Top

A photo of an excavator atop a 14-storey building elicited debate among Kenyans on Tuesday, May 23 with many questioning how the vehicle got to the top.

While some attempted to explain the unique phenomenon, others jokingly noted that the vehicle used the stairs or a helicopter.

In most cases, the excavator is placed on the roof of the building for demolition purposes.

The photo went viral forcing many to question why the demolition team did not opt for dynamites and other explosives to bring down the structure.

"Saving money not using explosives to demolish but it is going take a long time to demolish the building from the top down like that," one stated.

However, Kenyans.co.ke established that there are two distinct ways of lifting an excavator to the top of a building.

One of the ways includes the use of a specialised crane to lift it.

Lifting the excavator is considered safer, more efficient, faster, and less tiresome to the personnel. The crane used is designed to lift not dig.

While at the top, the vehicle is secured in place using chains and cables to ensure it does not tip over.

Another method used to place the excavator atop a building is by disassembling it and carrying it up the stairs to reassemble it at the top.

In some cases, a high-powered elevator is used to lift the vehicle.

Notably, this method is most effective with a building with fewer floors as it is time-consuming and tiresome.

The technique is largely common in China to quickly demolish a house from the roof down.

According to experts, the use of excavators to demolish houses is safer than the use of explosives especially in a congested area. This method will reduce the damage to the surrounding infrastructure.

There are several reasons why buildings may be demolished including safety issues, for development purposes, or a court order. During demolitions, members of the public are advised to exercise caution to avoid getting hurt.