Salvaging yesterday’s buildings for tomorrow’s sustainable communities …

What is Deconstruction?

Deconstruction is the removal of salvageable items in the reverse order of their construction. This reduces the amount of materials disposed into landfills. All salvagable items are then sold to the public at the Habitat ReStore.

How does the Deconstruction process work?

Contact is initiated by either the property owner or their representative(s). Once it has been established that there is a product or material appropriate for salvage by the ReStore, a time is set for the Deconstruction Coordinator to meet with the property owner or representative(s) and do a walk-through of the site. Once an agreement is made with the property representative(s) as to availability, materials and a time-line, the Deconstruction Coordinator will schedule a pick up of materials.

What kinds of materials are salvageable?

Windows, doors, cabinets, appliances, etc.

Are you able to deconstruct entire structures?

Yes, under certain conditions we ARE willing to deconstruct entire structures. Even whole buildings can be salvaged, and items like dimensional lumber and flooring can be resold. Deconstruction Services is currently looking for building owners (residential and commercial) who have a structure in need of demolition. It would be helpful if the timeline for demolition were relatively relaxed, as we would like to be able to train volunteers on these types of projects. Anyone with a building in need of demolition is encouraged to contact the Deconstruction Coordinator.

How is Deconstruction beneficial?

According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), in 1996 for instance, the U.S. produced an estimated 136 million tons of building related construction and demolition debris. The EPA estimated that only 20 to 30 percent of this debris was recovered for reuse or recycling. Although the construction and demolition industry has made great strides in the recovery of debris, the demolition of building materials consumes our limited landfill space. Deconstruction diverts demolition waste from the landfill and reuses these valuable building materials. Developers and construction companies typically look at buildings located on property slated for development as a costly, unavoidable annoyance. Until recently, developers and construction companies were offered little choice when it came to removing these buildings. Habitat Restore Deconstruction provides a smart alternative for maintaining our resources.

How can I benefit from Deconstruction?

Deconstruction donations are tax deductible, better for the environment, and proceeds help Habitat for Humanity build more affordable housing right here in Lexington, KY.

How do I get involved in Deconstruction?

If you have good, reusable or new materials for Deconstruction, please call Bill Wood, Deconstruction Coordinator, at (859) 519-6352 or email at: billw@lexhabitat.org.

If you would like to donate to the Deconstruction Initiative, we are currently looking to acquire the following items: Sawzall, circular saw, scaffolding, tarps, chainsaw, generator, air compressor, heavy-duty extension cords, new Tyvek suit, used pickup truck and a flatbed trailer.

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