Deconstruction, unlike traditional demolition, removes items through a process that maximizes reuse and recycling potential. Deconstruction, done well, can divert up to 80-90% of materials from the waste stream.
Did you know? 45% of U.S. waste comes from construction and demolition sites.
What is Deconstruction?
Building deconstruction and reclamation is an alternative to traditional demolition. Workers dismantle all or part of buildings with an eye for preserving historic materials and/or structures with integrity for reintegration into the current project or for inventorying for future reuse. With adequate lead time, deconstruction teams can recycle and repurpose up to 90% of the structure.
Why Deconstruction?
Environmental Benefits: A Smarter End for Materials
1. Diverts waste from landfills
Traditional demolition sends tons of materials to landfills, where they can leach chemicals into soil and water and contribute to greenhouse gas emissions. Deconstruction keeps valuable wood, brick, and metal out of the waste stream and in productive use.
2. Reduces demand for virgin resources
Salvaging materials for reuse or recycling reduces the need for newly harvested timber and freshly manufactured products, as well as the energy required to produce them. This conserves natural resources and decreases environmental impact.
Financial Benefits: Value Beyond the Tear-Down
1. Tax deduction opportunities
Salvaged materials donated to qualified non-profits may qualify for significant tax deductions. These benefits can often help offset the cost of deconstruction, making it financially competitive with standard demolition.
2. Material resale or reuse
Owners and developers may also choose to reuse materials in future projects or sell them for reuse—recapturing additional value.
Compliance & Certification Benefits
1. ESG & sustainability goals
Deconstruction helps meet Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) benchmarks by demonstrating responsible material management and carbon-conscious practices.
2. LEED credits
Salvaging and reusing materials contributes toward LEED certification by supporting categories such as Material Reuse, Construction Waste Management, and Regional Materials.
Our Deconstruction Services
Project Evaluation & Contractor Connection
We assess your project and connect you with qualified, competitive deconstruction partners who prioritize material recovery. Contact us for deconstruction support.
Maximizing Material Reuse
As a nationwide leader in reclaimed materials, we help re-integrate salvaged wood and fixtures into new builds and interiors.
See Deconstruction in Action
Explore real projects where deconstruction and reuse come full circle.
