Anyone know if its possible to remove and save a wood floor?

[rhino47]

My sister is tearing down a house to build one.There is about 3200 square feet of solid 3/4 inch cherry wood flooring.If this can be done how would I do it?I think it would be a total waste to throw this out.Is there a way I can remove it to where it can be reused?Also can habitat for humanity use the fixtures?They are all rather new.The tub is a step down spa and there is 4 shower stalls in the house and brand new kitchen cabinets.This just all seems so wasteful.

[Kashka-Kat]

1. YES-- call habitat or salvage co. and they'll do it for you

This stuff DOES have value and I can't fathom why her contractor wouldn't already be taking care of this for her-- aside from the environmentalist perspective it would save her land fill & disposal costs.

Assuming it had to be torn down in the first place-- but don't get me started on that! GRRRRRRRRRR.

If you want to DIY just remove baseboards and then start at one end with a crowbar.

[rhino47]

5. I agree with you on the tear down.It sickens me.

This is a seven year old house that had a remodel 6 months ago.It just drives me insane.I can not help to think how utterly wasteful.

[AllegroRondo]

7. Im wondering if the contractor already has plans for it

I cant see them tearing down a house and not selling as much of the reusable scrap as possible. Especially hardwood, it has a good resale value.

[unhappycamper]

2. Save the wood.

Here's a little Bob (I'm-gonna-sell-ya-stuff) Vila video on getting up old flooring.

I tried Habitat for Humanity when I replaced some fixtures last year, but I was told they only wanted new stuff. Give them a try - the rules may be different where you are.

[lizziegrace]

3. I work for Habitat

Our local affiliate has a BIAC (Build it Again Center) and we will sell used building materials. We also have crews that will come out and remove the flooring and haul it away. For constructing Habitat homes, we do only use new materials and appliances. Call your local chapter and ask if they have a center and if they would remove the flooring.

Another option is to contact a preservation group. People with old homes are always looking for old, usable materials.

[rhino47]

4. This home is not old.It is only 7 years old.

Thanks for the heads up.I hope that habitat can use these items.Some of the kithen appliances have the stickers still on them.

[lizziegrace]

6. Still

solid hardwood is a terrific find. :)