Getting rid of concrete from a construction project can be challenging and costly. In 2018, the Environmental Protection Agency reported that the U.S. generated 600 million tons of construction and demolition debris, with concrete and other materials accounting for about 50% of landfills. Disposing of concrete improperly not only takes up valuable landfill space but also increases disposal costs. Therefore, it’s crucial to learn how to dispose of waste concrete responsibly and explore recycling options.
How to Recycle Concrete
- Breaking down the concrete: Start by breaking the concrete into smaller pieces. While a sledgehammer can be used for this task, it’s important to prioritize safety. Wear protective gear such as safety goggles, earplugs, thick pants, and a long-sleeved shirt to avoid injuries. Also, make sure not to overload your truck or vehicle with the broken concrete, as it can damage the vehicle.
- Finding a recycling facility: Locate a concrete recycling facility near you. Not all companies accept concrete, so it’s advisable to check with local recycling centers or waste management providers. These facilities specialize in processing and repurposing waste concrete, making it an environmentally friendly option.
- Recycling methods: Recycling concrete involves various methods. Some recycling facilities crush the concrete into smaller pieces or use heavy machinery to break it down further. The resulting materials, such as recycled concrete aggregates (RCA), can be used for road construction, drainage systems, and as a base material for new concrete projects.
Considerations for Concrete Disposal
- Dumpster rental companies: To minimize costs and streamline the disposal process, consider renting a dumpster from a reputable company. Some dumpster rental providers, like redbox+ Dumpsters, offer 30-yard containers suitable for construction or home renovation projects. However, it’s essential to check with the rental company if they accept concrete, as not all providers do. Utilizing a dumpster rental company can save you the hassle of hauling the concrete to a recycling facility, as they handle the transportation and disposal for you.
- Cost and fees: When disposing of waste concrete, be aware of the associated costs. Most landfills charge around $20 per ton for concrete disposal, but you may also need to pay a “gate” fee to access the landfill. However, using a dumpster rental company can often help reduce disposal fees and simplify the overall process.
Benefits of Recycling Concrete
- Environmental benefits: Recycling concrete offers several environmental advantages. By diverting concrete waste from landfills, you help conserve valuable landfill space and reduce the strain on existing facilities. Recycling also decreases the need for extracting and processing virgin materials, thus conserving natural resources.
- Cost savings: Recycling concrete can help you save on disposal fees, particularly when utilizing services from dumpster rental companies. Additionally, some recycling facilities may pay you for the concrete you bring in, depending on the quality and quantity.
- Reuse possibilities: Another benefit of recycling concrete is the potential for reuse. You can repurpose recycled concrete for future home improvement projects, such as creating walkways, retaining walls, or even as a base material for new construction.
Let redbox+ Dumpsters of Kansas City Northland Assist You
redbox+ Dumpsters of Kansas City Northland is a reliable resource for your concrete disposal needs. They offer roll-off dumpsters that can be emptied as frequently as necessary during the rental period. Moreover, some of their dumpsters come equipped with portable restrooms, which can provide additional convenience and cost savings on job sites. Contact redbox+ Dumpsters for further information on their concrete disposal services in your area.
By following responsible concrete disposal practices and exploring recycling options, you can contribute to reducing waste, conserving resources, and minimizing the environmental impact of construction and demolition projects.