Profit vs. Reusability

Since we have trial subscription to cable channels, I have been watching house makeover shows like HGTV.com's Designed to Sell.

While some makeovers include minor cosmetic changes to kitchens and baths e.g. paint and accessories, I notice many makeovers are about demolishing functional but outdated 'old-fashioned' kitchen counter and cabinets. This way new homeowners are attracted to buy the property and existing owners get to sell the house at a higher price.

I can't help but wonder why people do not think about conserving resources and reduce wastage when it comes to home renovation. Instead of taking the cabinets apart systematically, the owners/contractors just smash them to pieces and chuck them in giant construction trash bins.

At the rate of these house renovation goes, I wonder how long landfills last before they are full of reusable materials.