For Homeowners Page

Why should you use salvage contractor services?

It will save you money. NBSN members offer a free service which may also reduce disposal costs. The value of the materials pays for the salvage contractors time. Any materials salvaged are materials diverted from the landfill.

It may make you money. Salvage contractors offer various forms of compensation such as a charitable donation receipt, store trade credit or, in special cases, a modest amount of cash.

So how do you use salvage contractors on demolition or remodel projects?

Licensed, bonded and insured NBSN members are experts in select demolition of still usable building materials saving dollars, resources and time. This is a reliable trade you can schedule into your projects with consistent, efficient results.

You should call as early in the project as possible to see what types of materials we will remove and haul away free of charge. We can save you money removing items that you would otherwise pay a demolition contractor to remove and throw away.

At the beginning of each project:

• Contact a NBSN member to discuss your project.

• Schedule a preview. We come to your site and inventory salvage opportunities in your project.

• Schedule a salvage date that fits into your timeline.

We have long-standing relationships with many contractors throughout western Washington and have worked on jobs of all sizes, so there is a good chance your contractor is familiar with us.

So why should I use a salvage contractor on a remodel project?

Salvaged materials are often the only answer in restoration or period remodels. If it's high-quality materials you're after, nothing beats a trip to a salvage yard. You are also supporting our local economy by supporting these businesses. You'll find some really interesting materials from schools, bars, restaurants and old buildings that can add quite a bit of character to your remodel. Contempoarary items in good to excellent condition are often available at significant discount relative to new items.

So how do I go about using salvaged materials on my project?

Identify places in your project where reusable building materials would fit, starting with the structural and ending with the fine details. Some of our customers have purchased our materials as major components for building complete houses; starting with reclaimed timbers and lumber for framing, windows and doors, reclaimed fir flooring, cabinetry, bathroom and lighting fixtures as well as hardware.

The important thing is to make a list, take your measurements, and be flexible. You may find that you may need to adjust an opening to fit a one-of-a-kind entry door!