Business Details
23 Years
experience
Eco-Friendly Building Materials Store in New Britain, CT
Founded in 2003, Reconnstruction Center operates as a federally recognized 501(c)(3) non-profit environmental organization dedicated to promoting sustainability through material reuse. Our mission focuses on diverting building materials from landfills while providing affordable solutions for community members. We accept donations from manufacturers, contractors, and the public, offering tax deductions for contributed materials. Our inventory includes new, preowned, and surplus items such as cabinets, appliances, windows, and lighting fixtures.Staffed by both employees and volunteers, we serve urban areas with a commitment to economic and environmental stewardship. Our operations combine practical resource management with community engagement to support sustainable development. The organization maintains transparency in its practices and welcomes public participation through shopping, donations, and volunteer opportunities.
Services
Cabinets
Paint
Appliances
Bathroom Fixtures
Lighting
Doors
Windows
Hardware
Insulation
Flooring
Details
- Year established: 2003
Highlights and features
- We offer tax deductions for material donations to support environmental goals
- Our inventory provides affordable building solutions for average wage earners
- We specialize in sustainable material reuse with community development focus
- Our diverse inventory includes new, preowned, and surplus construction materials
- We combine environmental stewardship with practical resource management
Services
Building Materials Reuse
We specialize in salvaging and reselling building materials to promote environmental sustainability. Our inventory includes new, preowned, and surplus construction supplies at affordable prices. This service supports both economic accessibility and waste reduction through material reuse.
Tax-Deductible Donations
We accept donations of usable building materials from manufacturers, contractors, and individuals. Donors receive charitable tax deductions while supporting our environmental mission. This service helps divert materials from landfills while benefiting the community.
Community Volunteering
We offer volunteer opportunities for individuals to support our operations through warehouse work, customer service, and administrative tasks. This program engages the community in sustainability efforts while providing hands-on experience in material reuse.
Affordable Fixtures Sales
We sell quality preowned and surplus lighting fixtures, cabinets, and bathroom fixtures at reduced prices. This service provides cost-effective solutions for home improvement projects while promoting sustainable consumption practices.
People
John Powers
Founder
John Powers established Reconnstruction Center in 2003 after observing successful material reuse models nationwide. As a Connecticut native, he envisioned creating a local resource for sustainable building materials while fostering community partnerships to achieve environmental goals.
Questions
What types of materials do you accept for donation?
We accept new, preowned, and surplus building materials including cabinets, appliances, windows, doors, lighting fixtures, and hardware. Donated items must be in usable condition for resale.
Are donations tax deductible?
Yes, as a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, we provide tax deduction receipts for donated materials that meet IRS requirements for charitable contributions.
What volunteer opportunities are available?
We offer positions in warehouse operations, customer service, marketing, and administrative support. Volunteers help with material handling, repairs, and community outreach activities.
How do prices compare to new materials?
Our prices are significantly lower than retail, typically 50-75% off original costs. We offer affordable options for quality building materials through our reuse model.
Do you deliver purchased materials?
We currently do not offer delivery services. Customers must transport purchased materials themselves or arrange third-party delivery.
Reviews (4)
M. G.
Oct 12, 2021
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Prior to their moving they were somewhat organized but now, forget attempting to any attempt in finding what you want. The powers to be move into a dungeon like space which if one person is not there, you will never find what you want. Very Disappointed to say the least. Please Get Organized.
Fortheearth
Oct 24, 2020
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Wonderful store with a large selection of building materials. Tom was so very helpful when we donated our doors, and purchased another door. They had nice kitchen cabinets, sinks, light fixtures, and some furniture too. Tina gave us great directions, and made us feel really good about donating
Deborah Cooney
May 27, 2020
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Website said open, went there & store closed, looks like for good.looked empty. Their attitude towards customers probably affected their business, for sure. I've prevoously dropped off some nice stuff & they were kind of rude.
Emily Volz
May 16, 2020
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Nice selection of items. You never know what you are going to find here. It's always worth looking here before you buy something new.
