Renovation tips to save money and reduce waste

Renovating your house can generate a lot of waste, in fact, at least 30 per cent of landfill is made up of construction and demolition waste, but with some careful planning you can reduce waste and save money. Here are our top tips for minimising waste during renovations.

Deconstruct, don’t demolish

Before you tear things out, decide what can be reused, repurposed or repaired. Carefully disassemble and remove materials. Even if you won’t reuse them in your renovation, someone else may want them so sell or donate usable items to your local community recycling centre (CRC), such as the new purpose-built Construction and Demolition Hub at the Waitākere Resource Recovery Park.

Design to last

Choose timeless designs and durable materials that won’t need replacing too soon. Avoid trends that may date quickly, or if you do choose a trendy design or material, make sure it’s one that you can repurpose or renovate later, or that someone else can. Nothing lasts forever but a good design can be repurposed, especially great architects design for longevity and eventual disassembly, not demolition.

Choose to reuse

Reuse bricks, timber, tiles and fittings. You can repaint cabinets, sand and seal timber floors, and refresh faded curtains with fabric dye. Or turn those old curtains into cushion covers or table runners.

Construction & Demolition Hub at Waitakere Resource Recovery Park which is perfect for renovating on a budget.

Visit your local CRC for treasures you can get creative with. Change knobs and handles for mismatched vintage ones or DIY versions made from old cutlery. Convert old jars or wire baskets into pendant lights. The possibilities for creativity are endless.

Need to upskill to get creative? Try taking a course at your local community centre or checking what workshops your local CRC may be running to help you learn a new skill during your renovation.

Buy smart, build smart

Source reclaimed building materials from demolition yards, or many CRCs across Auckland accept reusable building materials and often have second-hand items available for purchase which is perfect for DIYers and renovators looking for affordable, sustainable options. Centre staff are passionate about reuse and can often offer guidance and inspiration for your renovation projects.

Reusable construction materials at Waitākere Resource Recovery Park.

The interior of the new purpose-built Construction and Demolition Hub at the Waitākere Resource Recovery Park has been built using construction and demolition materials if you’re looking for inspo!

If you must buy new, choose sustainable materials and buy only what you need but remember the wise saying to “measure twice and cut once”. Work with suppliers who use minimal or recyclable packaging and allow returns of unused items.  

Partner with waste-conscious contractors

Choose designers, builders and tradespeople who prioritise waste minimisation and sustainable practices. Ask your contractor if they have a waste minimisation plan for your renovation project. Check that they sort waste on-site, keep site litter contained, and use official recycling services and take-back schemes. If they’re unsure, you could even recommend they check out the unwanted items search tool on the Auckland Council website so they can plan ahead for how they will reduce waste at your property during the renovation.

Dispose responsibly

Not all renovation waste can be reused or recycled, especially hazardous waste like paint, solvents and asbestos. You can find out where it goes for safe disposal on the Auckland Council website.

With construction and demolition waste making a significant contribution to Auckland’s waste issues, your renovation choices can make a positive difference for our natural environment and help Auckland to reach zero waste by 2040. Good luck with your renovation and thanks for playing your part!