Frequently Asked Questions
What is deconstruction?
Deconstruction is construction in reverse. Buildings are taken apart in the opposite order they were originally constructed.
Does deconstruction take longer than traditional demolition?
No. In most cases GRN crews complete work ahead of schedule. This is possible because of detailed planning and coordination among GRN’s on-site and off-site skilled teams.
What can you tell us about GRN crews and staff?
The vast majority of GRN crews come from the construction industry. This includes civil engineers, LEED® APs, construction management, superintendents, etc., but the founding members of GRN are from the recycling and reuse industry. With more than 20 years in this field, GRN management has extensive knowledge and experience that keeps us at the forefront of our industry. Our on-site crews go through security background checks, as well.
Does deconstruction cost more than traditional demolition?
No. Costs are kept low as a result of GRN’s reuse and recycling markets for a range of materials, instead of relying on expensive landfill disposal.
What landfill diversion rate can we expect by utilizing GRN service?
Rates vary depending on the scope of the project and the materials involved in the deconstruction. Typically though, GRN’s projects have diversion rates above 90%.
Our building is not to be LEED® certified. Should we consider deconstruction?
Yes. Deconstruction is not just a way to get green, but also to save green ($). It’s also a great way to initiate a more environmentally friendly approach.
There are many “recycling” service companies in the construction field now. Why not hire one of them instead of GRN?
Companies seeking recycling services, including general contractors and builders, would be challenged to match the options and resources available with GRN which result in more diversion at less cost. This usually results in less diversion at more cost. GRN’s unique structure and skill set, including its alliance with other highly capable companies, allows for tremendous leveraged results.
Exactly what “materials” does GRN remove from buildings?
GRN removes construction materials such as carpet, glass, doors, mechanical and electrical systems, bathrooms, ceiling tiles, walls, and even furnishings. GRN will take anything inside of a building, including the building itself and find its maximum value in either the reuse or recycling markets.
What happens to the materials GRN removes from buildings?
Carpet and ceiling tile goes to GRN’s sister company RM Brokerage, usable items such as doors and furnishings are handled by GRN’s salvage division, metal is recycled locally, and drywall and mixed debris goes to GRN’s sister company Ace Recycling.
We have materials that need to be removed from our site, but do not require deconstruction. How can GRN help?
GRN routinely provides a Green Clean service where its crews haul out identified items then recycle and salvage them to achieve their maximum value. GRN also offers revenue sharing for items that result in a net positive value to our customers for any reuse materials.
Are there jobs too big or too small for GRN?
Though the typical job is 10,000 to 100,000 square feet, GRN is fully capable of handling jobs in the millions of square feet.
Where does GRN focus its efforts?
GRN’s foundation is in deconstructing commercial interiors, but we also perform “smart demolition” for whole buildings—commercial or residential. This is where the structure is knocked down—often with some light deconstruction conducted first—using traditional means, but then fed to a mixed debris recycling plant.
What regions does GRN service?
GRN’s is based in Washington DC though it has performed projects in a multi-state region and expects its sphere to grow in coming years.
Are there any materials that GRN does not accept?
GRN does not directly handle hazardous waste though we can provide service for literally any item through a host of partner firms.
What other services does GRN perform?
Besides deconstruction and green cleanouts; GRN conducts waste audits, helps source recycled and reuse items, and assists in finding markets for problem materials for its customers.
