WHAT TO DO WITH MATERIALS AFTER RENOVATION

You’ve finally renovated that ancient bathroom of yours, and it’s just what you imagined — beautiful, trendy, sophisticated and welcoming.

Now you’re faced with a decision: What do you do with your old stuff — the fixtures, furnishings and decor? What about all those leftover materials and unused building supplies?

For items that can’t be used as is, you might want to consider:

• Restoring or upcycling materials. Did you not use all of the wood purchased for cabinets and shelving? Or the marble for the countertops? Well, you could always use those materials to create an accent for another part of your home.
  
  
• Donating to thrift stores or charities. Habitat for Humanity and other local charities are great options. If you’ve got bulkier items, some secondhand shops and charities will even pick them up from your home.
  
  
• Recycling any eligible materials. Head to your local recycling center if you have items that are metal, glass, paper, cardboard or plastic. Some places will even accept batteries and electronics if you have no more use for them.
  
  
• Contacting a scrap metal dealer. A scrap metal dealer may be interested in purchasing pieces of metal left over from the renovation.
  
  
• Throwing it in a dumpster. Be aware that you might be required to pay a fee if you throw items in the city or county dump. Renting a dumpster for your property could also be an option.

If you’re working with an architect or designer, be sure to get their opinions. They may be able to recommend which items you should keep around as spare supplies.