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Architectural Salvage

How to Find Used Building Parts

By Jackie Craven, About.com

Begin your search for used building parts and architectural antiquities by following these steps:

  1. Browse our listing of Net links for information about Architectural Salvage
  2. Check the yellow pages of your local telephone directory for Building Materials - Used , or Salvage and Surplus
  3. Also look up Demolition Contractors. Call a few and ask where they take their salvaged building materials
  4. Contact your local historic preservation society. They may know of salvagers who specialize in antique building parts. In fact, some historical societies operate nonprofit salvage warehouses and other services for old-house restoration.
  5. Contact your local Habitat for Humanity. In some cities, the charitable organization operates a "ReStore" that sells salvaged building parts and other home improvement items donated by businesses and individuals.

Keep in mind, most salvage centers don't operate 9 to 5 hours. Always call before making he trip!

No salvagers in your near your home?

Shop Online for Architectural Salvage

Unless you live in an urban area, you may have to drive a long distance to find a salvage warehouse. If there are no salvagers nearby, consider doing business over the phone and the Internet. View photographs of architectural details and inquire about shipping costs. Also, take advantage of Web sites that offer message boards and discussion forums. Often you can post your request for free.

Here are some of the best resources on the Web for finding architectural salvage:

  • Architecture Forum at About.com. Post a message describing what you are looking for.
  • Recycler's Exchange. An information exchange for anyone who would like to buy, sell, or trade all sorts of materials and equipment, including lumber and building materials.
  • AntiqueNet. Sell or bid on antiques and collectibles, including fine architectural details.
  • The ReUseIt Network. When you join a ReUseIt mailing list, you can list items you want to give away and find items that other members are discarding. Everything is free.
  • Craigslist. Choose a city and browse for "materials" in the For Sale Category, or post your own free advertisements.
  • eBay. The world's largest online marketplace has everything, including architectural parts. Try several key words in the search box on the eBay home page.

Happy hunting!

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