The New York based reference site, Thought.Co posed the question, 'Why buy new when you can buy used building parts at a fraction of the cost?'
 
'People throw away the darnedest things: stained glass and glass mirrors; cast iron steam radiators; solid wood porch columns; pedestal sinks with original porcelain fixtures; ornate Victorian moldings.' and they recommend architectural salvage stores as the best source:
 
Find anything from a 'marble fireplace mantel' to 'old bricks' or 'solid oak doors' and 'In many cases, these items cost less than their modern-day equivalents; in almost every case, the product quality is unmatched by today's materials.'
 
This is so true. There is nothing like the real thing. Salvage reuse may be more of a challenge but the end result will be truly unique and can sometimes be less expensive than new. The beautiful colours and textures of salvaged materials such as reclaimed stone, wood, marble, brass or terracotta and the stunning craftsmanship of antique fireplaces, cast iron tubs and chandeliers will make any salvage store an enjoyable place to explore.
 
If this has sparked the urge to get out and discover your local salvage showroom or reclamation yard, check out the Global Salvo Directory, linked below. With over 4,000 listings you are sure to find a few of your own salvaged treasures.
 
If you want genuine reclaimed it is best to find a dealer you can trust to know their source. So look out for the Salvo Code crane logo used exclusively by Salvo member businesses. The Salvo Code is a code of good practice for dealers who buy and sell architectural salvage, antique garden ornament and reclaimed building materials. Hence the Salvo Code gives customers greater confidence. There has also been an increase in fake or faux salvage. For example, new wood can be made to look old with stains and even nail holes or a polyurethane wood look alike. Labelling is key here so look out too for the new Truly Reclaimed label, which a small group of Salvo members are piloting.
 
Images show just a few of the architectural salvage yards listed in the global Salvo directory.
 
See the full article in the link below and as Thought.Co would say, 'Happy hunting.'