Deconstruction is the systematic disassembly of a building to maximize material recovery, while demolition destroys the structure and sends most waste to landfill. ML Systems uses a carefully sequenced crane operation that preserves the integrity of lumber, fixtures, doors, windows, and other components. The result is 80 to 90% material recovery compared to demolition's typical 10 to 15%.
A typical residential deconstruction takes 2 to 5 days. The core crane sequence runs over 2 days, with additional time for material sorting, grading, and transport depending on the size and complexity of the structure. This is comparable to or faster than traditional demolition when factoring in debris hauling.
ML Systems recovers 80 to 90% of materials from a typical residential structure. Of those recovered materials, approximately 51% are resold, reused, or recycled. This high recovery rate is the single biggest margin lever in our business model, reducing new construction costs and generating revenue through our marketplace.
Every recovered material receives a unique ML Material ID in the format ML-{year}-{project}-{zone+sequence}. This ID tracks the material's grade, contamination status, origin project, recovery date, and full audit history. The provenance system ensures traceability from deconstruction through resale or reuse, and supports DEM export for regulatory compliance.
The upfront labor cost of deconstruction can be slightly higher than demolition because it requires more careful handling. However, the total cost is typically lower when you factor in reduced landfill tipping fees, the resale value of recovered materials, and potential tax deductions for donated materials. ML Systems' closed-loop model turns this into a net positive by feeding recovered materials back into new construction.
Hazardous materials such as asbestos, lead paint, and certain adhesives are identified during the pre-deconstruction assessment and handled according to Rhode Island DEM regulations. These materials are separated, documented, and disposed of through licensed hazardous waste facilities. They are excluded from the material recovery metrics and do not enter the marketplace.
Yes, deconstruction in Rhode Island requires appropriate permits from the local building department, similar to demolition permits. ML Systems handles the permitting process as part of the project scope. Note that Rhode Island uses a contractor registration system, not a licensing system, for general contractors performing this work.
Recovered materials are graded, assigned ML Material IDs, and listed on the Builder's Open House marketplace at mlsystemsri.store. Materials are organized into 10 zone-based categories including Kitchen, Lumber, Doors and Windows, Flooring, Hardware, and more. Buyers can browse and purchase verified materials with full provenance history, supporting both cost savings and sustainability.
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