Salvage & Reuse

You might never imagine that shipping containers could hold the most precious of cargo: your family. Freestanding or residential additions comprised of shipping containers are growing in popularity due to their affordability and flexibility. It doesn't hurt that they're pretty green, too.

Whether you love the look of antique door hardware and charming clawfoot tubs or you simply want to save money on building materials for your home renovation, consider the value of architectural salvage. Add character to your home while keeping perfectly good materials out of the landfill.

Where can I recycle home remodeling waste?

You've committed to recycling at home, but there isn't enough space under your kitchen sink to separate your papers from your plastics and glass. Setting up separate recycling bins is a great way to stay on track, but you're not thrilled with the idea of having several trash bins on display in your kitchen. Fortunately, there are plenty of...

Take advantage of the free water that falls on your roof and yard. Rainwater harvesting systems allow you to save on your water bill while saving your yard from dreaded storm-water runoff.

You know the old saying, "if it's not broke, don't fix it?" This is also one of the tenets guiding the green home renovation philosophy: reuse as many materials as possible within your existing home. However, not all materials are safe or efficient to reuse. Learn to tell the difference.

Though a composting toilet sounds unpleasant, you might be surprised to learn it can be just the opposite. Save water and gain fertilizer without compromising your bathroom experience.

What happens when architectural salvage loses its exclusivity? That's when building materials get used and reused on a large scale.