Friday, July 17, 2009

RECYCLING REVELATIONS





Since we started the renovation there have been trials and tribulations with recycling as much construction debris as possible. When we measure what was recycled for re-utilization the tally is rather amazing. Looking back at our journal serves as a reminder of just how much material is involved in residential construction and how much can be saved from landfill while being placed into new use. We are still reaping the benefits of past civilizations even to this day because of this concept. To be a bit more humble, here is a short list of what we have managed to recycle.



    • Brick Masonry from interior (fake)fireplaces
    • Sliding Glass windows
    • Operable windows
    • Interior and Exterior Doors and frames
    • Door Hardware
    • Ceiling Fans
    • Light Fixtures
    • Water Closets
    • BathTubs
    • Lavatories
    • Laminate Flooring
    • Carpeting
    • Dimesional Lumber
    • Interior Trim
    • Kitchen Appliances
    • Propane Room Heaters and Fireplace Fixtures
    • Sheet Metal
    • Copper Water Piping
    • Aluminum Gutters and Trim
    • Overhead Garage Door
    • Electrical Wiring
    • Steel Posts
    • Landscaping
    • 3 Ton Heat Pump
    • 50 Gallon Hot Water Heater
    • Condensation Pumps
    • Ductwork
    • Concrete Rubble
    • Left Over Paints and Stains (from previous Owners)
    • We even managed to relocate thousands of honey bees

Despite these efforts we still had a considerable amount of waste. That waste totaled to close to three full 40 cubic yard dumpsters plus 21 pickup truck loads. Items such as molded fiberglass insulation, carpet pad, drywall, rotted or poorly used lumber , roofing etc. Recycling is not yet perfected but every ounce of saved materials is one less on our conscience.

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