Deconstruction Services

Goals of Innovation:
To salvage and make best use of materials from the existing structure.
To reduce construction waste to the landfill.

Description: This project required the removal of a portion of the existing home before contractors could begin framing in the addition. Rather than demolish and ship waste to the landfill, an organization was hired to deconstruct and salvage materials. Materials from insulation to framing, roof to trim were carefully pulled from the old structure and stored for reuse. The old appliances and cabinets that were to be replaced were donated to organizations that would make use of them. ReStore was one such organization.

Obstacles: The non-profit hired to complete deconstruction was skilled in this process. The building contractor was less cooperative with reuse and recycling efforts. Some training and supervision was required to make sure everyone was on the same page in completing the goals of the renovation project.

Cost Information: Cost of deconstruction services = $11,250. The company providing the services was not a non-profit. Here's a link to their website: http://www.deconstructionservices.com/

Green Roof Addition

Goals of Innovation: To create a roof that would help to offset the environmental impacts of the structure.

Description: A green roof is a living roof full of vegetation. The vegetation serves to manage rainfall more naturally and to reduce reflectance of the surface that tends to add to heat island effects in urban areas. They can also beautify empty roof spaces, filter dust and airborne toxins and provide noise reduction for residents.

This green roof was constructed by DC Green Roofs, a non-profit organization specializing in these techniques. First a flat roof was constructed outside of the master bedroom by a conventional roofer. The roof is approximately 34' by 34' in an L shape. A thermoplastic polyolefin (TPO) rubber roof was then laid and the seams welded. Flashing was added similar to any other roof covering. A system of pallets was then constructed and elevated approximately 1 inch off the roof. The pallets were lined with a geotextile and filled with soil. The planting, not completed at this writing, will consist of sedums.

Obstacles: The non-profit made the process very easy.

Cost Information: The green roof cost about $7 per square foot more than a standard shingle roof. The flat roof design was integral to the design of the renovation. By placing a flat roof in this location, the residents gained the southern exposure in the master bedroom.

Additional Benefits/Drawbacks: The benefits of a green roof will serve the entire DC area and support their vision for the community.