Salvageable Materials that Demolition Contractors Should Help Property Owners to Collect
When clients hire demolition contractors for complete or partial demolition of their structures, the customers sometimes expect the contractor to offer them advice on reusing and recycling salvageable items. Some people salvage some of the most common materials, such as bathtubs, sinks, doors and windows that are in good condition. However, there is so much more that can be salvaged, reused and recycled in any given demolition project. Therefore, it is a demolition contractor's job to ensure that clients retrieve more than they expect. This article highlights some of the lesser-known salvageable materials that a demolition contractor can help property owners to identify.
Drywall
The basic structure of drywall is gypsum sandwiched between two sheets of paper, and that makes it a perfect candidate for recycling or reuse. Unfortunately, since drywall is less expensive compared to other alternatives, very few people think of salvaging the drywall during structural demolitions. Moreover, few people understand that drywall is one of the building materials that have varied recycling options. For instance, if the drywall is not damaged in any way, then it can be used in another property. On the other hand, if the drywall is broken into smaller pieces during demolition, the gypsum scraps can still be salvaged and used to patch walls or form concrete. Additionally, if your client is an avid gardener, then they will be thrilled if you inform them that gypsum can be used to nourish plants. Therefore, whether the drywall breaks into smaller pieces during demolition or remains intact, it can still be salvaged, recycled and reused.
Partially Rusted Steel
The last thing that a property owner wants to get close to during the demolition process is rusted steel. Rust not only diminishes the external appearance of steel components, but it also affects the structural strength adversely. However, if a significant portion of the structure being demolished is made of steel, then it is vital to examine the extent of the rusting. If you notice partial rusting in select steel bars or plates, then you can salvage the structures and remove the partial rust later through sandblasting. Alternatively, the client can cut away the affected parts and reuse the remaining bits for a different purpose. Note that steel cannot usually be salvaged if it is extensively corroded.
Broken Glasses
One of the many pieces of advice that property owners get is that they should avoid broken pieces of glass at all cost when salvaging materials in a demolition project. In most cases, the reasons given is related to safety issues. However, broken glass is as valuable as other salvageable materials, such as tiles and roof shingles. Homeowners can use broken glass for decorative purposes. Moreover, relatively big pieces of glass can be trimmed and shaped for different uses.