Okay, so you've used everything that you could from your own demolition. Now it's time to start building. Do you head to the nearest retailers and pick out what you want? For some things that may be warranted (like drywall) but really the best thing to do first is to check for reclaimed materials that work. One way is to use Craig's list (the Craig's list people should be paying me for how much I promote their site.) Another way is to find a Habitat Re-store, or another place like it. My new favorite place to go to shop for stuff for our remodeling projects is The Rebuilding Center in Portland. They take all the stuff out of houses that are being torn down and sell it for reuse, as well as create
really fun furniture out of reclaimed wood. Our latest finds there were a drinking fountain for our mud room and an old lighting fixture that we will fix up for the new bathroom.
Our latest and greatest Craig's list finds were some beautiful travertine tile for bathroom floor and vanity, and a solid granite tub surround that was taken out of a luxury hotel suite (only $200!)
Pros: Reusing stuff prevents it from filling the landfills (The Rebuilding Centers slogan is "Just because it's called a landfill, doesn't mean you have to fill it.") It is much cheaper than buying new.
Cons: It requires greater flexibility and you may not be able to find exactly what you want.
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2 comments:
It sounds like you found some really cool things. I can't wait to see the finished remodel!
Green remodeling is a process of learning and then using (and reusing). As a design/build firm in Portland, (and a re-user from WAY back) we specify as many green/sustainable products as possible, from sheetrock with recycled content! to No-VOC paint and anything you can find at the rebuilding center. We use Deconstruction Services from the Rebuilding Center at the start to save anything that can be saved/re-used. I applaud your convictions.
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