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Deconstruction and Salvage

Salvage and Deconstruction Can Save You Money

This Web page is intended to introduce you to cost-saving salvage and deconstruction practices and the local resources available to help you get started. Salvage is the recovery of valuable or useful materials for reuse. Deconstruction is the systematic disassembly of a building. Using salvage and deconstruction techniques on a demolition project can be an effective way to cut costs and come in with a lower bid or gain a higher profit margin. The key to effective salvage and deconstruction is knowing which techniques are most cost effective and when to apply them on a particular project.

Benefits of Salvage and Deconstruction

• Avoiding the disposal costs of demolition debris
• Avoiding transportation costs if another company removes the material
• Earning money by selling recovered materials

Considerations

• Is it more cost-effective to train your crews on these techniques or use a "subcontractor" or "firm" that is skilled in salvage and/or deconstruction? These companies may provide their services in exchange for the materials they remove.
• Know which materials you plan to salvage and dispose. For example: Managing the roof and the walls as construction and demolition debris while salvaging the floor joists and beams may be the most cost effective solution if a building is in poor condition.
• Find a buyer for the materials that can be recovered before you begin your project. Specialized firms listed below may be able to assist you in determining what items may be salvaged.
• Concrete, wiring, piping, yard debris, metal studs, and metal bracing/supports are all easily recyclable whenever a building is being taken down. Deconstruction projects will also likely yield non-salvageable clean wood which can be recycled.

Salvage and Deconstruction Resources

Below is a list of companies that are well versed in salvage and deconstruction techniques and that may be interested in being a subcontractor on projects. For additional information on these companies, please see pages 20-21 of the 2008 King County/Seattle Construction Recycling Directory (PDF, 1 MB).

Deconstruction Consulting Services

Private consulting services are available to work in-depth with you to provide guidance and networking support for salvage and deconstruction services.

Web Resources - King County Solid Waste Division

• Sample language to help you with salvage and deconstruction specifications at the start of your project.
• Deconstruction case studies including a project description, resources saved and lessons learned.
• Building materials exchange for getting rid of your salvaged materials.
• Recycling database that provides numerous referrals to recyclers of building materials such as drywall, concrete and wood.

"Salvaged Home" Instructional Videos

• Removing Kitchen Cabinets

Windows Media variable speed format (Windows Media Player required - free download available)
Real Media variable speed format (RealPlayer required - free download available)

• Removing Doors

Windows Media variable speed format (Windows Media Player required - free download available)
Real Media variable speed format (RealPlayer required - free download available)

Questions?

Contact the Construction Recycling program online.

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