About Safe Disposal of Construction Waste
Whether you are demolishing a building, renovating a house or constructing a new structure, there will always be some form of construction waste that needs to be disposed of. Each construction job creates new construction challenges and waste materials can be very different from one job to the next. Contractors and do-it-yourself homeowners need to know about safe disposal of construction waste.
Sort Construction Waste
Work through the construction site to sort through materials that could be recycled or saved and reused at another location or for another purpose. For example old bathtubs and kitchen appliances still in useable condition could be reused or donated.
A lot of materials left over from new construction, renovating and demolishing are perfectly good materials easily recycled. Separate out recyclable materials containing copper, aluminum, steel, tiles, bricks, concrete and glass. Other recyclable materials include appliances, fixtures, untreated wood, carpet and asphalt.
Department of Public Works
Call the Department of Public Works for recommendations on how to dispose of wood scarps, gravel, dirt, sand or dust.
Landfills
Community landfills often take non-hazardous materials including some recyclable materials, tires, allowable construction debris, appliances, mattresses, furniture and carpeting. Call the landfill to confirm unusual or questionable materials are accepted if you are unsure.
Salvage Yards
Contact several salvage yards in the vicinity of the construction site. Ask what types of materials they will accept. A lot of yards will pay for old appliances, propane tanks, aluminum, copper and steel.
Hazardous Waste Collection Centers
When renovating or demolishing old buildings you may come across hazardous materials such as lead paint. Toxic materials containing asbestos or lead paint should be taken to a hazardous waste collection center.
Solid Waste Disposal Facilities
Many cities have solid waste disposal centers that take in several types of materials from demolition and construction projects. Slate, porcelain, marble, drywall, concrete and ceramics are normally accepted. You can also drop off cement, bricks and asphalt materials.