ABSTRACT
Reusing building materials is one of the solutions to counter the harmful effects of the construction sector and move towards a more sustainable environment. However, currently, only 1% of the materials from a demolition site are being reclaimed. There is a lack in comprehensive knowledge on the practical feasibility of reuse and the evaluation of its environmental performance. Using a social housing case study, this study adopts an innovative approach by integrating empirical data from on-site dismantling tests and interviews with reuse companies to inform a life cycle assessment. Results indicate that environmental gains of reuse vary significantly by type of tile and application, reaching up to 82% for ceramic tiles and up to 53% for terrazzo tiles. The study reveals that while manual methods are viable for durable materials, ‘no-damage’ disassembly and mechanical or chemical cleaning processes can minimize material losses and enhance financial feasibility. By demonstrating substantial environmental benefits and practical considerations, the research highlights tile reuse as a promising strategy for sustainable construction and resource efficiency within circular economy principles.
