How to Find Salvage Materials for Home Decorating Projects

Using salvage materials in new construction or renovations is a good way to save money and help keep these items out of the landfill. There are several ways to find salvage materials that are still in great shape. There are even retailers that specialize in this.

Finding salvage materials for home decorating projects is a great way to save money and turn some trash into treasure. If you are particularly crafty or just on a budget, then this is a great hobby you can have that can leave you with a fat wallet and a beautiful home.

• Go to local retailers as well as the big chains for any sample building materials they may have lying around. Plenty of wholesalers and other stores will have surplus scraps that will often get thrown out. It is best to give them a call before heading out, this way you won’t waste a trip if they don’t have anything for you. This can also work well when looking for fabric patterns or specific colors as the swatches are often given away.


• Check out the Habitat for Humanity Restore as a way to get a lot of surplus building materials. Most restores that you will find will focus more on selling things specifically for home improvement. Any items that you purchase here will be sold to you at just a fraction of what the retail price is.


• Ask around to see if any friends or family members are about to go through a spring cleaning or home renovation of their own. They may have some old pieces that they no longer use or want that just needs a little TLC.


• Take a walk on trash pickup day in your neighborhood. Many people will put old pieces of furniture they no longer need or use out on the curb. Most of these items are still functional.