Construction and demolition waste represents 31% of all waste generated in Europe and 40% in Australia. Up to 80% of that waste – things like concrete, bricks and tiles – could be recycled instead. This could help to reduce the production of new materials (and the impact that process has on the planet) by at least 10%.
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To play their part in fighting the climate crisis, more and more tradespeople are going green. You don’t need to do a complete 360 to make a difference. If possible, start by using a few second-hand materials rather than letting them go to landfill.
It’s a double win, for the planet and your pocket. Here’s what you need to know about using second-hand building materials.
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Reclaimed bricks are more affordable and can offer more durability than bricks fresh out of the kiln. Older bricks are weathered, have stood the test of time, and will likely continue to do so for new projects. You can also use them for decorative purposes like garden edging.
As a result of over-forestation, there’s much less wood available than there used to be, which means reclaimed wood is the obvious choice. You can use reclaimed timber for:
Concrete is one of the least eco-efficient building materials available. But thankfully, it can be recycled using industrial crushing equipment, and reused in many ways:
Old pallets will do more than just save you a few pennies. You’ll also create something with a lot of character and quirk. Use old pallets to construct furniture like bed frames, coffee tables, chairs or even a bar.
Second-hand windows and doors that are still intact are far too valuable to shove off to the landfill. Restore them to add character in your next build or use them in creating a glasshouse.
Steel is known to be the world’s most recyclable material – it can be used over and over with no degradation. Got some second-hand steel lying about? Scrap iron and metals can be used to build roads and bridges or detoxify industrial wastewater.
Around the house, you could recycle old steel for furnishings like benches and tables or plumbing fixtures. If it’s not rusted, recycled metal can also be used in roofing.
Got a bit of leftover paint that’s headed for the dump? Some manufacturers or retailers take back unwanted paint and containers. Check with your local retailer to avoid sending yours to the landfill.
If you need paint, ask around your community to see if anyone has some – it’ll save you buying it brand new.
This material is easy to recycle and because of its durability, it’s a great option for driveways, parking lots, roofing purposes, building exteriors or retaining walls.
Wool is undeniably a more useful material than its synthetic competitors. As well as being a natural choice, it’s easy to clean, more durable and more resistant to wear and tear. If you’ve got your hands on some second-hand wool carpet, don’t let it go to waste – use it in your next home project or sell it on for someone else to use.
No need to send a hot water radiator to the landfill – there are a few ways to repurpose one. Turn it into a solar water heater, outdoor fire pit, or woodfire stove.
Doing a house renovation? Old cabinets and fittings can be reused in future builds or around your house in many ways:
Most second-hand building materials are perfectly safe to use, but some carry risks. The safety of second-hand building materials will come down to how thoroughly you inspect them. With a background check and a bit of common sense, you should be right as rain.
Here’s what you need to be wary of to keep yourself and your clients safe:
Asbestos is a common risk in the construction industry, and if you’re sourcing older materials or dealing with demolition, you need to be careful. Never use second-hand material that you suspect has asbestos – contact a professional to remove it immediately.
A lot of lead-based materials are now illegal due to their high toxicity. Materials like paint, bath and basin wastes may contain lead and should not be reused. Lead-based paint may be found on some woods or house fittings. Never use material if you suspect it has lead in it.
It’s likely these won’t be salvageable and don’t meet safety regulations. Be cautious when dealing with any second-hand electrical equipment – it may be faulty and hazardous.
Some older toilets use more water than their modern counterparts, meaning they’re not an environmentally-friendly solution.
When using second-hand timber, be sure to check that its wood grading is eligible and not expired.
If your timber is riddled with bugs, it could infest the rest of your home or working space. A thorough inspection of the wood before you take it will sort that problem out.
If manufactured before 1978, they’ll contain PCBs and therefore shouldn’t be used.
Mercury can be found in things like fluorescent lights, thermostats and some heating, HVAC and plumbing systems. It’s a dangerous substance that should be handled by a professional.
Batteries contain lead, mercury and acid, and shouldn’t be reused.
With a quick look over any material, you’ll want to spot things like cracks, holes and gaps. If it’s on its last legs, it’s probably better to keep looking. The same goes for rust, which is often unsalvageable. Steer clear if you notice any.
In most towns and cities, you’ll be able to forage for second-hand materials from recycling centres, old homes, building sites or online. Here’s where you’re best to go looking.
Suppliers vary by state, but here are some common options for finding second-hand building materials in the US:
The construction industry is responsible for a huge amount of the world’s waste, but that doesn’t have to be the case. Sourcing second-hand building materials is a great solution, and you’ll achieve a unique project with a lot more character. Next time you need new materials, check out your local salvager and help save the planet, one door frame at a time.
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