Renovation Demolition: Consider Saving These Materials

Which Items To Save

Windows
Depending on the age and energy efficiency of your windows, they can be very beneficial to keep. Older windows that don’t keep out the Calgary winters may not be worth keeping, but double or triple-pane windows are good to hang on to. While some windows may become damaged in the demolition process, vinyl windows are very durable and can likely be salvaged. Consider selling these or donating them to a community organization for a tax receipt.

Countertops
This main kitchen fixture can be made from a variety of materials, and heavy, segmented pieces of countertop can be difficult to remove. It can be harder to salvage any marble or concrete, as moving these items can be very awkward, but lighter materials can often be removed without too much hassle. Keeping quartz, for example, should be easy as it is often installed in one piece and is significantly lighter than marble. Even if your natural stone breaks, the pieces can be refabricated for smaller installations at a very reasonable cost.

Flooring
Flooring can be a very expensive item. Salvaging hardwood or porcelain can save you a lot of money for your next project and is a lucrative resell item. Even the less expensive flooring such as faux hardwood and luxury vinyl can easily be worth keeping, as they are simple to remove and reinstall. If you are renovating a historic home, old floorboards are coveted by other homeowners undertaking restorations.

Roofing
This will depend largely on the material of your roof and the age. Roofs made of metal, slate, tile, or other durable materials can last for up to 50 years and can be salvaged and reused. Asphalt shingles and wood shakes may not necessarily be worth keeping, particularly if they are over 10 years old. 

Siding
Some forms of siding that are highly durable are well worth salvaging, such as metal, vinyl, and fibre cement. DIYers will often seek out used products such as these for backyard shed construction projects. Other forms of siding that are at the end of their life are likely headed for the waste bin.

Fixtures
Any small fixtures that are in good shape can be kept, especially considering how easy they are to remove and reinstall. This includes door handles, showerheads, sink faucets, light fixtures, and more. Anything that can be unscrewed that might be beneficial either in another project or to be sold can be saved. Fixtures are also a great item for donation and many community organizations will accept them for resale.

Cabinets
If the doors are still intact and the cabinets are in overall good condition, they can be salvaged. Vanities can also be saved so long as there is no water damage and the drawers are all in good condition. Old cabinets are great for garage organization or for basement suites. 

Appliances
These are easy to save. Each appliance should be fairly simple to remove and is well worth keeping if it is less than 10 years old and/or still in proper working condition. Sell these in online marketplaces, list them on buy nothing sites, or donate them to a community charity.

Calgary Demolition Cleanup From 24/7 Restoration

Renovation demolition of the home is only the first step. Demolition can leave you with a lot of debris and large loads of materials that need to be taken to the dump. There will also be remaining dust and potentially dangerous debris, such as glass shards. To avoid dealing with these issues, contact 24/7 Restoration to help with your Calgary demolition cleanup. The team at 24/7 Restoration will take your demolition rubble to the dump for you and we will assess all your demolition needs including old plumbing, flooring, concrete, and electrical and we will ensure your site is prepared for the next step in your renovation. To keep your demolition or renovation project contained, organized, and clean, contact 24/7 Restoration in Calgary either by calling 1-403-247-4365 or by filling out the online contact form.

FAQ

Q: How much does a demolition cleanup estimate cost?
A: At 24/7 Restoration, we offer FREE ESTIMATES for demolition and renovation cleanup.

Q: Will 24/7 Restoration do an asbestos check before demolition commences?
A: Yes, 24/7 Restoration in Calgary is qualified to check for and remove asbestos from the home. Doing this before demolition is highly recommended, as disturbing asbestos will release dangerous asbestos particles into the air.

Q: How can I save items when I have a cleanup crew throwing things out?
A: If you wish to save any items from the demolition, tell the 24/7 Restoration cleanup crew and we will not take them to the dump. Our team’s main focus is working with you to make your demolition or renovation as stress-free and simple as possible, so discuss your cleanup needs with us and we will be happy to make accommodations.