When it is time for your house to get a facelift, think of all the alternatives before you remove everything and throw them in the dumpster because chances are you could be relinquishing some good old treasure.
Think First
First of all, do some research before you start to tear down the old stuffs. Think of the renovation concept that you have in mind. Do you want to keep the floor tiles or do you want to take out the built-in wardrobe? This kind of planning will save you from running several unnecessary trips in search for materials or wastage in case you want to remove the refurbishment you deem unfit after the initial installation. You can also get some value for money items from your local stores that offer and accept salvaged building materials. They may accept your removed materials so that they can recycle for reselling and offer lower prices when you make purchases from them. Since they are the experts, they are able to revamp the salvaged materials to be just as brand new. Here, you are helping to reduce the reliance on landfills.
Reuse Old Stuffs
In remodeling your home, you may even get to come across old furniture which can be reused elsewhere to create a nostalgic look in your home. For the rest of the furniture which you do not want anymore, check out which are the ones in good condition to be sold at a garage sale or to local stores. If reselling is not your cup of tea, there are plenty of shelter homes which need the lodgings. This is also a great way of doing charity.
Dispose Properly
If, however, the materials are beyond repair for the salvaged building materials stores to accept, take caution in the disposal process. Find out from your local government the areas or centers designated for furniture disposal or recycling as some materials are hazardous to be covered into landfills. Also, engage with an authorized licensed hauling company to dispose of the unusable materials so that they will be transferred to the appropriate place unless you wish to transport them yourself.
Reach Out for Help
Get professional help if you are really running out of ideas. Extra cost may be involved and the recommendations on high quality materials may add on to it but there could be a cost benefit deep within. High quality materials can last a long time and worth your money in the meantime. By any chance, good maintenance will give your house the ultimate timeless look in years to come and prepare to be admired by your visitors. Now that is called a proper remodeling.
Additional reading:
www.lifecyclebuilding.org
Image Credit:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/jlt/3553879683/
