Community Forklift

Yesterday, we dropped off at Community Forklift some old metal kitchen cabinets (a few will soon find their way into my lab), a desk and a couple other items from my family home that we're in the process of renovating.

For folks in the DC area Community Forklift is a great resource to direct useful building materials as well as vintage appliances and furniture away from the dump and into the care of another. You can also purchase inexpensive vintage items for a home renovation although walking into their warehouse is a bit like the final scene from Raiders of the Lost Ark.

From Community Forklift...

Construction and demolition debris makes up OVER HALF of our nation’s solid waste.

Building material reuse is an alternative that just makes sense. Donors can avoid dumping fees, and earn tax deductions. Part of our inventory comes from deconstruction, in which a building is carefully taken apart by skilled laborers instead of demolished. This creates jobs, and can cost less than traditional demolition.

The materials can be sold cheaply, so homeowners and small businesses can afford repairs – making neighborhoods cleaner and safer. We are also a resource for nonprofits, churches, and temples that fix up homes for the elderly or disadvantaged. Schools, artists, and theatre groups can buy low-cost art materials or props. Renovators can find antique trim to preserve historic buildings. Local governments receive less debris at landfills and incinerators, saving money and reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Everyone benefits from less waste and a cleaner environment.