Row of painted shutters at Habitat ReStore.

8 things to donate when renovating

From renovation trash to DIY treasure at the habitat ReStore

If anything is a constant in home improvement, it’s the trash. Home improvement projects tend to leave behind plenty of sawdust, screws and scraps of wood, not to mention surplus construction materials.

Donating your renovation materials keeps functional items out of the landfill. Other renovators get the building materials they need for their projects, and you get to help others while getting rid of your trash. Many Habitat ReStores provide donation pickup services, and your donations may qualify for a tax deduction. Donating is a win-win situation.

8 types of construction waste that can be donated:

Row of reclaimed sinks for sale at Habitat ReStore.


Donating bathroom fixtures is a great way to keep bulky items out of the landfill. If you’re donating a bathtub or sink, make sure that they are not stained and do not have chips in the porcelain. If you are remodeling an older bathroom, your vintage fixtures will be surprisingly popular at the local architectural salvage store.

Ready to donate construction materials?

In general, donate building materials that can be reused and are in good condition. Make sure that any small parts in multi-piece items like doorknobs, plumbing fixtures and lighting are kept together. Check for rust, sharp nails or broken boards. Donations that are clean and in good condition are easy to reuse, and many local organizations will help you recycle these items.

Everything you donate to Habitat Restore, from a doorknob to a large appliance, allows Habitat for Humanity to work with families around the world to provide safe, affordable housing — foundational for creating stability, and better health, educational and economic outcomes for millions of underserved families.