Salvage Kings: Why did Ted Finch leave Priestly Demolition?

In an Instagram post dated April 15, 2022 Ted Finch said:

Just to let you know, I am no longer working with Priestly Demolition or National Salvage.
I have decided to go on my own, again, reopening Flashback Salvage, a company I started in 1991.

I will be opening my new shop to the public in the Summer of 2022, till that time, we are taking appointments for buyers.

You can message me at my Facebook Page, Flashback Salvage or on IG @salvageted.

Thank You all for your support over the years.

Cheers,

Ted

“Salvage Kings” is a television show that follows the team at Priestly Demolition Inc., a Canadian company specializing in demolition, salvage, and recovery of valuable materials from industrial and commercial sites. The show documents their work as they tackle challenging projects, dismantle structures, and salvage reusable or valuable items from the wreckage.

The Salvage Kings team consists of skilled experts, including demolition specialists, salvage professionals, and restoration experts. They use specialized equipment, techniques, and problem-solving skills to safely and efficiently dismantle structures while salvaging materials such as wood, metal, architectural elements, and more.

The show offers an inside look into the world of demolition and salvage, highlighting the unique challenges faced by the team, the value they find in repurposing materials, and the potential environmental benefits of salvage operations. It often showcases the process of transforming reclaimed materials into new usable items or restoring historical pieces.

“Salvage Kings” provides an entertaining and educational perspective on the demolition and salvage industry, offering viewers a glimpse into the world of repurposing and the value that can be found within seemingly discarded structures.

What is Priestly Demolition?

Priestly Demolition Inc. is a Canadian company specializing in demolition, salvage, and environmental remediation. Founded in 1971 and headquartered in King, Ontario, Priestly Demolition has become one of the leading demolition contractors in Canada, known for their expertise, safety record, and innovative approaches to demolition projects.

The company offers a wide range of demolition services, including structural demolition, selective demolition, high-reach demolition, and interior demolition. They have the capability to handle various types of structures, from industrial buildings and bridges to high-rise buildings and residential properties. Priestly Demolition employs advanced techniques and specialized equipment to efficiently and safely dismantle structures while minimizing environmental impact.

In addition to demolition, Priestly Demolition is known for its salvage and recovery operations. They have the expertise to identify and salvage valuable materials and equipment from demolition sites, including metals, architectural elements, machinery, and more. Their focus on salvage and recycling aligns with their commitment to sustainable practices and reducing waste.

Priestly Demolition has earned a reputation for successfully completing complex and challenging projects. They have experience working in various industries, including industrial, commercial, and residential sectors. Their team of skilled professionals, including project managers, engineers, technicians, and equipment operators, ensures that projects are executed with precision, efficiency, and safety.

The company places a strong emphasis on safety, adhering to stringent safety standards and implementing comprehensive safety protocols. They prioritize the well-being of their employees, subcontractors, and the public during demolition projects, and they are committed to maintaining a safe work environment.

Priestly Demolition has been involved in numerous notable projects across Canada, including large-scale demolitions, site remediation, and salvage operations. They have received recognition and awards for their work, further establishing their reputation as a trusted and reliable demolition contractor.

Overall, Priestly Demolition is a well-established and respected company in the demolition industry, known for their expertise, innovative approaches, and commitment to safety and sustainability.

TV Shows Similar to “Salvage Kings”

“Salvage Kings” is a unique show that combines elements of adventure, history, and the world of salvage operations. If you’re looking for shows with a similar blend of excitement and exploration, here are ten that you might enjoy:

1. “American Pickers”: This show features antique and collectible hunters who travel across America in search of rare artifacts and forgotten relics. The hosts delve into the history of the items they find, offering a blend of adventure and historical insight.
2. “Storage Wars”: Focusing on storage unit auctions, this series showcases participants who bid on the contents of abandoned storage units, often uncovering valuable or unique items. It’s a treasure hunt of sorts, with each episode bringing new surprises.
3. “Pawn Stars”: Set in a family-run pawn shop in Las Vegas, this show revolves around the buying and selling of a wide array of historic and unique items. It offers insights into the value and history of the items, along with negotiations and haggling.
4. “Auction Hunters”: Similar to “Storage Wars,” this show focuses on two experts who bid on storage units and then sell the contents for profit. It combines elements of strategy, competition, and the thrill of discovering hidden treasures.
5. “Junkyard Empire”: This series is about a family-run business that turns junk cars into profitable vehicles and parts. It highlights the process of salvage and restoration, offering a behind-the-scenes look at the world of automotive recycling.
6. “Restoration Garage”: Set in a classic car restoration shop, this show is all about bringing vintage cars back to life. It’s a mix of automotive history, mechanical challenges, and the satisfaction of restoring beauty to old vehicles.
7. “Wheeler Dealers”: This British television series focuses on buying and restoring classic cars to sell for a profit. The show is educational about car mechanics and restoration, with a focus on the transformation of each vehicle.
8. “Dirty Mudder Truckers”: While not directly about salvage, this show has a similar adventurous spirit, focusing on off-road truck racing. It includes elements of vehicle modification and competition.
9. “Barnwood Builders”: This series follows a team of builders who specialize in salvaging and rebuilding old barns and cabins. It combines historical preservation with the challenges of modern construction.
10. “Ice Road Truckers”: Although it’s about trucking rather than salvage, this show shares the element of high-stakes operations in challenging environments. It follows drivers who navigate the dangerous ice roads of remote Arctic territories.

Each of these shows offers a unique perspective on the world of salvage, restoration, and treasure hunting, often with a historical twist that adds depth and interest to the viewing experience.

What do Salvagers Do?

People who salvage for a living are involved in an intriguing profession that combines aspects of exploration, recovery, and commerce. Their work typically revolves around the identification and extraction of valuable materials or items from places where they are considered waste or are no longer in use. This could involve visiting old buildings, shipwrecks, abandoned areas, or even participating in storage unit auctions, where they apply their expertise to spot items of potential value.

Once they discover something promising, their skill lies in assessing and valuing these finds. This requires a deep understanding of various materials and objects, their historical significance, rarity, and condition. The valuation process is crucial as it determines the potential profit that can be made from these items.

Following the assessment, they embark on the extraction and recovery process, which often involves physically retrieving items from challenging environments. This part of the job demands not just physical strength and skill but also a keen sense of safety and sometimes, creative problem-solving abilities.

After successfully recovering these items, the next step is either restoring or repurposing them. Restoration can be a meticulous process, especially for antiques or historically significant items, where the goal is to bring them back to their former glory. In contrast, repurposing involves transforming the items into something new and usable, often giving them a second life in a different form.

Finally, the culmination of their work is in selling or trading these salvaged items. This could mean dealing directly with buyers, such as collectors and antique enthusiasts, or selling through various channels like auctions, flea markets, or even online platforms. The sale not only represents the financial reward for their efforts but also often brings satisfaction in seeing discarded items find new homes or uses.

Overall, the life of a salvage professional is a blend of adventure, historical exploration, artistry in restoration, and business acumen, all rolled into one.