Habitat for Humanity of Greater Portland ReStore volunteers were busy last week carefully dismantling a house on Long Lake, preserving interior and exterior materials for resale at their Portland location. This house is the second on Long Lake to be offered to the Habitat ReStore for deconstruction.

Through the generosity of the homeowner, valuable materials will not be lost, instead they will find new life in homes throughout southern Maine. According to Andrew Smith, Habitat ReStore manager, this deconstruction will result in several quality items for resale, including but not limited to interior/exterior doors, light fixtures, countertops, cabinets and plumbing fixtures. Items will be sold at 50 percent to 80 percent off retail value.

The ReStore recycles overstocked, discontinued, and used quality building materials donated by individuals, firms and contractors. The effort is also providing an environmental value in that the ReStore recycles building materials that would otherwise clog Maine’s landfills. Revenues from the operation go directly to build homes for Maine families in Cumberland County who would otherwise not be able to afford to own their own home.

More than 500 Habitat for Humanity affiliates throughout the United States and Canada have opened ReStores within their community to fund the work of providing simple, decent and affordable housing.