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How To Find Used Building Parts

By , About.com Guide

Find used and antique items for your old house restoration... or for modern homes with a historic flavor.
Time Required: Shopping can take days or years... Enjoy the process!

Here's How:

  1. Search online directories for Architectural Salvage.
  2. Check the yellow pages of your local telephone directory for Building Materials - Used, or Salvage and Surplus.
  3. Phone Demolition Contractors. Ask where they take their salvaged building materials.
  4. Contact your local historic preservation society. Ask about salvagers who specialize in antique building parts.
  5. Do business over the Internet. View photographs and inquire about shipping costs.
  6. Take advantage of online messsage boards and forums for buying, selling and trading.
  7. Place classified ads in magazines that specialize in old house restoration.
  8. Visit demolition sites. Check those dumpsters!
  9. Keep an eye on garage sales, estate sales and auctions.

Tips:

  1. Some historical societies operate nonprofit salvage warehouses and other services for old-house restoration.
  2. Most salvage centers do not operate 9 to 5 hours. Always call before making the trip.

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