FAQs

1. What is Deconstruction?
   Deconstruction (aka green demolition) is the process of uninstalling and removing the fixtures of a structure rather than taking a sledgehammer to them. At ReFind Kitchens, we began with a focus on kitchens and bathrooms and have since expanded to provide whole house deconstruction and donation services. Our goal is find top-of-the-line cabinets, appliances, countertops, sinks, vanities, and other reusable building materials that are going to be demolished and dumped during the remodeling process. Instead of seeing all that art and craft become waste, we meticulously remove it, pack it up and find new homes for it.
   
   
2. How is ReFind better than recycled?
   Donating or buying a ReFind kitchen is the most environmentally sustainable option for your remodel. In order to recycle something (e.g. an oven) there is land, labor, water and energy that must be consumed in order to take the oven and break it down into aluminum, copper, steel, and plastic. If the oven is in excellent working order there is no need to spend the resources to recycle it. We can just keep it alive! With a little imagination it can fit seamlessly into a new, up-to-date design. And, if you buy that oven from us, you have the peace of mind of knowing that no new resources were spent manufacturing it. 
   
   

For Buyers

1. How can I make sure the kitchen I want will fit the space I have?
   Please review our Cabinet Buying Process. If you're ready to start the brainstorm, use the contact us form to submit the dimensions of your space (incl. height please) and the name of the kitchen you want; and we will happily provide feedback about potential reconfiguration. If we need an extra cabinet or two built to complete your kitchen, we have reasonably-priced custom builders and finishers that will supply the matching cabinets for your design.
2. How can I trust the appliances will be in good working order?
   Whenever possible, we inspect all appliances prior to removal. We also ask the previous owner for any known quirks or issues, age of the unit and repair/use history. If we cannot check the appliance prior to removal, we will try to do so once it is in the showroom. If we discover a problem, we don't sell the item.
3. Do you offer any type of warranty?
   We do not. If an issue arises, we will do our best to help you troubleshoot it and, if need be, recommend a repairman.

4. If I don't live in Southern California can I still buy a kitchen from ReFind?
   In order to keep our carbon footprint as small as possible, we try not to ship outside of Southern California. We do make exceptions on a case-by-case basis. 

5. How does the buying process work for cabinets, appliances, etc.?
   Please find our entire Buying Process here.  

For Donors

1. I want to keep my kitchen out of the landfill. How can I find out if you will deconstruct it for me?
   Thanks for your interest in keeping beautiful craftsmanship from being treated as waste! If you live in Southern California, send us a few snapshots of your kitchen using the form at the bottom of this page and we will get you an answer within 24 hours.
2. Do you charge for deconstruction and/or removal?
   Whenever possible, we do not charge for the deconstruction services we provide. If we determine the costs of deconstruction will exceed the resale value of the items, we will provide deconstruction for a fee. The donated items are still tax deductible. The deduction is intended to offset—and often exceeds—the costs of deconstruction, appraisal and donation.
3. If you produce jobsite waste, what do you do with it?
   If, for example, we have to demolish a tile countertop in order to save the base cabinets, we will place the refuse wherever you and your general contractor deem best. Unless otherwise agreed upon, we do not haul away debris. We will however, vacuum and tidy up to leave the space ready for whomever comes next.
4. Will you deconstruct a kitchen that is outside of Southern California?
   If you have a top-of-the-line, beautifully designed, like new or new kitchen in Phoenix, Las Vegas, San Francisco or closer, send us some photographs using the contact us form and we'll see what we can do.

For Contractors 

1. I have a client who has a great kitchen that I'm about to gut. What is the next step to get it deconstructed?
   The best thing to do is fill out the form at the bottom of this page. Please include the location and the company you represent along with photos of the kitchen. We will respond within 24 hours with an answer about how to move forward.
2. Do you charge the client for removal?
   Whenever possible, we do not charge for the deconstruction services we provide. If we determine the costs of deconstruction will exceed the resale value of the items, we will provide deconstruction for a fee. The donated items are still tax deductible. The deduction is intended to offset—and often exceeds—the costs of deconstruction, appraisal and donation.