inhabitat.com published an informative article about where to go when you are looking for used tools, appliances or building materials. They suggest that you write posts about what you are looking for on social media or online classified ads, tell people you know, call local contractors, or post a flyer around a town.
One idea that hadn’t occurred to me was pawn shops, especially for tools. If they don’t have what you are looking for, they might take your number and call you if one comes in.
Habitat for Humanity Restores are an obvious choice. I have found many items at our local outlet, especially recycled building materials, such as windows and doors, but you can also find appliances, furniture and housewares.
Stores that specialize in wood recycling and reclaimed lumber can be found in many places. The Building Materials Reuse Association has an online directory that you can use to find a location near you where you can find recycled and reclaimed wood.
Scratch and dent stores sell items that have been damaged, refurbished, are out of the box or have been discontinued. You can find slightly imperfect appliances at the Sears Outlet website or at one of their outlet stores. You can also buy scratch and dent furniture online at Goedeker’s. Or a quick Google search will help you find the scratch and dent stores in your area.
You might be able to talk a contractor into allow you to salvage materials from a remodel project or a house that is being torn down, so keep your eye for such opportunities.
Freecycle is all about exchanging things for free; it has millions of members from around the globe and the goal is to keep things from ending up in landfills. Membership is free.
Another great online option is PlanetReuse, which is a marketplace where you can buy recycled materials from both residential and commercial buildings.