Architectural Salvage Deals from Habitat for Humanity

Habitat for Humanity, the charity that builds homes for needy people, also runs stores in many states and Canadian Provinces that sell old home hardware, fixtures and accessories that have been donated from renovations and remodeling. All proceeds go to fund Habitat’s charity work. The stores are low on frills, but offer the Clever shopper the chance to find really great architectural salvage pieces.

Keep in mind that, like garage sales, you have to search through a lot of junk to find that really great piece. Based on our shopping experience, here are some areas that we’ve found to be particularly rich in finds:

Bathroom plumbing fixtures:
Faucet fixtures, sinks, toilets, towel rods and hangers, etc. Why pay a fortune on faucet fixtures that look “old” when you can inexpensively buy the real McCoy. Beware about older fixtures and compatibility with newer piping. Of course, with all the money you’ll save, you can easily hire a plumber to make the adjustments.

Doors:
Solid wooden doors will set you back a small fortune if you buy them new. But there is no denying the sound and feel of a solid door. When we’ve been to the Habitat store there are typically hundreds of doors available for sale, from screen doors to front doors to interior doors. Expect to pay substantially less than you would at a home improvement store or interior design store. Typically a little sanding and a new coat of paint and you’ve got a “new” door.

Kitchen Cabinets:
If you’re a little more adventurous, buying an entire set of cabinets or individual pieces could save you a fortune. We’ve seen entire cabinet sets for $1500. Of course, you’ll need to be able to install them (or pay someone to) and you might want or have to make some cosmetic changes—different hardware, paint, new finish. If you have a rental home, this should be a definite option since you’re typically not as concerned about aesthetics

Hardware:
Knobs, pulls, hinges and the like; look hard enough and you can find everything from porcelain to brass. Instantly give plain, new items character; these are perfect for changing the look of a current door, your kitchen or bathroom.

Etcetera:
Who says items have to be functional? Old paned windows make great decorative pieces and mantels don’t have front fireplaces. Find both and more and use your imagination for decorating.