LISTEN...

Modern renovators have an opportunity to reuse and recycle tons of materials as they retrofit existing buildings. The 'deconstruction' process involves the careful disassembly of buildings and the reuse of materials that are still in good condition.

Construction and renovation contractors may play a major role in reducing greenhouse gas emissions and saving energy through the built environment. This includes making use of old materials that still have life in them and recycling materials that can be used to create new material instead of going to a landfill.

A deconstruction job may involve the following strategies:

• Recycling of metals like steel, aluminum and copper;
• Reuse of some insulation types;
• Recycling of glass;
  
• Reuse of wooden structural materials like beams, studs and rafters;
• Cleaning and reuse of trim and finish materials, such as moldings, flooring or handrails;
• Reuse of stone and other masonry elements;
• Reuse of electrical and plumbing fixtures, such as lamps, chandeliers, and bathtubs.