Disposable Homes

When moving into an older house, the question of what to keep and what to replace is constant. Many items, like hardwood floors, we work to preserve. Others, such as old roofs, we tear off and replace. The Washington Post wrote this weekend about the lifespan of "house parts". I don't agree with all of their lifespans - boilers can easily last 30-50 years - but I think it's a helpful starting place. It's a good reminder that many items can be salvaged and refurbished, rather than replaced. Finally, if we're going to get rid of things before their life is up, we should consider donating to groups such as Baltimore's Loading Dock.