Are Old Building Sustainable?

11/30/2022

A Rethos magazine article recently shared five reasons why old buildings are valuable.

1. New materials are costly, financially and environmentally

New materials must be transported to the construction site, adding to the carbon footprint before they even arrive at the construction site. New structures often require demolition, sending existing materials to landfills. A significant amount of new materials aren’t built to last, impacting future replacement and future waste.

2. Existing buildings have a cultural and historical significance

Many structures have social value and a deep historical significance. Not only tell the history of community growth (or decline) but the dreams and aspirations of those who went before us. From grand entrances and elegant lobbies to one-room schools and austere facades, these buildings tell powerful stories to be shared and preserved.

3. Repurposed materials are often more sustainable, durable, and of higher quality

When repurposing is not an option, many old buildings hold a treasure of materials that can be salvaged and used on other projects. In some cases, up to 90% of materials can be reclaimed from deconstruction projects and reused for restoration or repurposed into new construction. Reuse saves transportation carbon emissions, contributes to the local economy, and reduces landfill waste.

4. Old buildings can be a spark for community vitality, opportunity, and development

Restoring and giving life to old buildings often creates an incentive to reinvest in nearby properties. Repurposed and deconstructed buildings can support local reuse stores and spur the local economy. Maintaining and caring for historic structures offers the opportunity to learn new skills.

5. Reducing carbon footprint and landfill waste benefits the environment

The greenest, most sustainable building, is often the one that already exists. Preserving and rehabilitating existing buildings keeps demolition materials from filling up landfills and reduces carbon emissions by eliminating transportation to the site.

While there are challenges with reusing buildings, the benefit is immeasurable. Giving a new purpose to historic buildings offers economic and environmental benefits, and provides another lifetime of sustainability. If you’re considering reusing an existing building, contact us to learn more about St. Cloud Window’s historic aluminum doors and windows or to request a quote.