“Deconstruction” is a term broadly used to refer to the systematic dismantling and removal of valuable construction materials from a demolition or remodeling project. As the value of wood, metals and other resources continues to climb along with disposal costs in many areas, deconstruction, rather than demolition, has quickly grown in popularity.
Particularly with structures that contain valuable, reusable materials, such as lumber, deconstruction is actually “construction in reverse.” Crews begin the project on the roof removing shingles and work their way down to the floor.
Considering the value of recovered materials combined with avoided disposal costs, companies can more than pay for the extra time deconstruction takes. In addition, many non-profit, job-training organizations view deconstruction as a means to create much needed employment opportunities.
Deconstruction / Salvage / Reuse
If a project involves demolition or remodeling, builders are urged to salvage as much reusable material from the job as possible. One-day, advertised “demolition auctions” are one way of reducing disposal costs and ensuring that valuable resources are reused.
For a complete listing of permitted Construction and Demolition debris recycling companies, facilities, and solid waste collection companies, click here.
Paint and Other Hazardous Waste
It is legal to put latex (water-based) paint cans containing dried or solidified paint (NO pourable paint) into the regular recyclables collection bin. It is illegal to dispose of oil-based or pourable latex paint, stain, varnish, thinner, stripper, or solvent into regular trash or recyclables collection bins, stormdrains, sinks, toilets, or on the ground. Residents can properly dispose of these and other hazardous materials at local Household Hazardous Waste (HHW) collection facilities and HHW events in Ventura County.
If your business generates less than 220 pounds or 27 gallons of hazardous waste per calendar month, you qualify as a Conditionally Exempt Small Quantity Generator (CESQG) which allows you to participate at these HHW collection facilities and events. (NO explosives, ammunition, radioactive, medical or infectious waste is accepted at HHW facilities). If your business generates hazardous waste in amounts more than those listed above, contact the Ventura County Environmental Health Division at 805/654-2813 for information about proper disposal.
Residents and CESQGs may also dispose of paint and several paint related products free of charge at any one of a number of retail paint stores in Ventura County participating in the PaintCare Program. Program details and store locations can be found on the PaintCare website: http://paintcare.org