Salvaging Tips
I spoke with Gordie Wornoff today. He’s a carpenter and freecycler. On September 14, you’ll be able to watch him and six others convert an old loft into a high-end live/work space with found materials only. The show is aptly called Junk Raiders. Currently, I have a broken granny cart on my front lawn.
I asked Wornoff if it was something he would salvage. I’ve taken granny carts before, but they’re not very sturdy. I only take things that are worth it or that I’ll use. If I needed wheels for a dolly, I might take those.
It looks like it’s up to me to take care of that cart.
![junk_raiders_gordie_wornoff](https://staging.canadianhomeworkshop.com/wp-content/blogs.dir/3/files/2011/10/junk_raiders_gordie_wornoff.png)
Credit: Discovery Channel
Here are Wornoff’s top five tips for freecycling:
- Be safe. Wear gloves. Wear long sleeves and pants if you are jumping into Dumpsters.
- You should ask permission before you go through someone’s trash.
- Look strategically. For example, wealthier neighbourhoods are usually hotbeds for renovations in the summer and a good place to find old 2×4 studs. For pine, look for discarded futon frames around the end of April in the student neighbourhoods.
- A search for a particular item rarely succeeds. If you need angle brackets now, the store is the place to go. But, if you have a lead on some old Ikea furniture, problem solved.
- Be prepared and keep and eye out. You never know what you’ll find or when.
Do you have any salvaging tips or tales? Share them in the comments section below.
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