What if catastrophe and demolition weren’t the end of a property but rather a new beginning?
That’s how Daniel Shoemaker, owner of Shoemaker Demolition, prefers to think about his trade. This Somis, CA-based heavy contracting firm is involved in every phase of site work, “from the first swing of the hammer to the final grade.” Demolition, excavation, grading, underground utilities, concrete work, and site prep – they do it all.
And their approach has been instrumental in helping rebuild parts of Los Angeles after wildfires swept through in early 2025. Many homes and businesses were damaged or destroyed, and companies like Daniel’s were some of the first to be able to access the affected areas again.
It’s not as simple as bulldozing a house and moving on to the next one, though. Every project has structured phases that must be adhered to. Phase 1 is the removal of hazardous materials like asbestos, flammable gases, batteries, etc. Then, Daniel and his crew can arrive and start Phase 2 – the actual demolition and site work. Fire debris is removed, materials like concrete and metal are recycled, foundations are repaired or removed, and the site is graded and prepared for new construction. After that, further phases can start.
The 2025 fires were devastating, turning many lives upside down. Rebuilding after any sort of setback can be tough – and especially so when family homes and thriving communities are affected. It takes a higher level of care and coordination for projects like this, and Shoemaker is committed to supporting every step of the process. This leads to a final result that’s high-quality and ready for new beginnings. Because How It’s Made Matters.
Seen in this video is the Targhee IV Work boot. Crafted with care at our factory in Shepherdsville, KY – because, much like Shoemaker’s approach, when you own the whole process, you own the outcome.
