I am working on a project that involves the demolition of an existing 100 year old structure that contains hazardous materials, including asbestos, PCB ballasts, fiberglass resin in containers and huge timbers covered in lead paint.

I have another project that is to design a new home for a high-end client...and I was thinking that a nice heavy timber structure would be a great solution for this client.

Our contract with the first project states that the demolished materials belong to us as the contractor and that we are responsible for the abatement, disposal, etc. and must adhere to all regulations, etc.

I would like to use the timber beams in the first project in the design of the second. My understanding of the risks of lead paint and the abatement thereof requires that loose paint chips be removed by scraping and then the wood members can be handled without special equipment. Is it then possible to remove the surfaces of the beams, columns and planking by planing them in a controlled environment? Where do I learn more about this?

The wood in question is of tremendous value...some of the beams are 10x18 in perfect condition.