We've been taking apart old structures for years when we build new ones for our clients. Most companies
head for the dump grounds with all the materials. And they also charge you for it. We do things
much differently. Typically the old wood is good if it is less than 15 years old, especially old framing lumber since
it has been covered with decking for years.

First off, we take all the reusable wood and clean it of all nails and screws. It then comes to my house for staging.
We then take an organized load to the wildlife center to help build enclosures for rescued animals.
At the wildlife center we have built over a dozen structures over the last 3 years! Also, I have built over 320 ft. of fence line and
1200+ s.f. of decks at my home. 

All metal is separated and recycled, all the rest of the usable wood is given away via craigslist
to those who need it. In fact, that's how I met the couple who run the wildlife center. The bottom line is that we try to
reuse everything we can to keep good wood from seeing the landfills....that's just a waste. It takes extra man hours and
resources to do this, but we feel it's the right thing to do.
 

We use Forest Stewardship Council Certified Lumber when possible. We prefer buying from suppliers that support
responsibly managed forest harvesting versus those who come in and clear cut everything in their sight.
Even our Ipe [Brazilian Walnut...the most beautiful decking in the world] comes to us from companies that
replant ten times what they harvest in South America.

For those who might not know, Ipe is the one wood product on earth that is less expensive than
composites and guaranteed up to 15 years longer. It is the 'green' wood of choice for those
concerned about the manufacturing process of composites.

When it comes to installation of any outdoor structure, special care is taken around tree roots,
tree trunks, plants and vines. We try and make as little impact on your yard as possible.
Tree roots are never cut for footings, we'll change the plan instead of endangering roots
of any tree. Our fences never encase a tree...we box around them to give them plenty of room to grow.
Mature trees get the same treatment, they tend to sway in the wind and having a structure right next
to or tied to [by the real Einstein builders] is asking for trouble.

Last week a client asked us to remove four large Rosemary plants. I text messaged a few of my friends and
in 15 minutes we had them all spoken for. They are dried out now and about to be redistributed
and planted to live again.
 

When considering who will build your next project, ask the other contractors what they do with the
things they haul off. Also ask them what they charge for hauling and demo work.
Compare that to what we do....with us demo and haul off are free and you will
have the knowledge that the materials we remove will go to good use.