How to Dispose Of or Recycle Concrete Efficiently?
Concrete is used in so many construction projects that homeowners will inevitably need to deal with getting rid of it during improvement projects involving demolition. Knowing how to dispose of concrete in an efficient manner can be as simple as researching the nearest dumpster rental companies. If you’re looking for options on how to recycle concrete, there are many tips to consider, from recycling it by reusing it on your own property to carting it off for use elsewhere. Whether you’re a homeowner or a business owner (including a general contractor), when you’ve got piles and piles of concrete you need to get rid of, you’ve come to the right place for answers. The following information will provide you with many options, ideas and tips for dealing with everything from piles of fine concrete to large chunks to panels of the material.
What to consider before disposing of your concrete waste
An important part of any project is waste removal, which can include a variety of different types of material, but one that seems to get a lot of attention because of its bulk/density/weight is concrete. Even a small DIY project can generate a burdensome amount of concrete, so having a plan in motion will make your project go smoother. Concrete waste disposal options vary and the one you choose will be the result of factoring in many aspects unique to your project. Rather than focus on how challenging it is to manage such a heavy material that doesn’t degrade like other materials, read on and become informed about how disposing of concrete can be just another step toward the completion of your project. The following is what you should consider as you plan your concrete disposal.
Consider concrete weight
Concrete disposal planning should take into account the weight of the material you're getting rid of. Different disposal methods come with specific weight restrictions, and exceeding these limits can result in additional fees or complications with the disposal process. When renting a dumpster for concrete disposal, it's important to select one with a weight capacity that meets your needs. Ensure the weight of your concrete load is compatible with the dumpster's capacity to avoid overage charges. If you're transporting concrete to a landfill or recycling center yourself, be mindful of the facility's weight limits. Staying within these limits ensures a smoother disposal process and helps avoid any unexpected costs.
Consider the concrete type
There are different types of concrete, you ask? Well, sort of. There is the “clean” variety, which is composed of cement, water, sand, gravel and no other materials, particularly organic materials. There is also “mixed heavy debris” concrete, which is clean concrete at its core, but also waste materials, which can include soil, brick, asphalt, paint or other substances that surrounded the concrete that became attached to it before it was demolished. Why does this matter? Dumpster rental companies need to know what they’re putting in the landfill, as there are various materials that are hazardous and not allowed, such as asbestos, lead paint, etc. It’s also important because if the concrete is being taken to a recycling center, it will need to be “clean.” Therefore, if you have two types in your project, you might need to rent a dumpster for each so it is properly handled.
Consider concrete condition
Your clean concrete is inert, which technically means it is chemically inactive, but to waste disposal experts, this means that it will not pose a problem in terms of running afoul of regulations regarding toxicity or hazardous waste. Therefore, knowing the condition of your concrete can help you determine how it will be disposed of. Does your concrete have paint on it? Is it mixed in with other materials that could be considered hazardous? If so, this means the concrete is not considered inert and will need to be handled differently. For example, you’ll need to work out ahead of time your disposal plan for your mixed heavy debris concrete, as it will need to be separate from your clean concrete.
Consider local concrete disposal regulations
When you have a concrete removal project coming up, now is the time to get educated on the various laws, ordinances and regulations dealing with concrete disposal. For most people, this is as easy as going online and checking with your municipality’s website, usually, a tab with the word “code” in it will get you to the right place. Or, simply call city hall and ask to whom you should speak about concrete disposal codes. You might find out that your municipality has incentives for recycling your concrete, or that there are fines for disposing of concrete in specific ways that you initially believed would be above the law. When you do your research you are able to cover yourself and ensure that you are not at risk of being fined.
Consider environmental impact
Being friendly to the environment is absolutely crucial. Not only are there legal aspects to consider, but being a good steward of the habitats in your region is an ethical responsibility. For example, many governing bodies (state, municipal and county) encourage finding uses for refuse instead of depositing it at the landfill, and this includes concrete. Finding a recycling center to take your concrete helps minimize your ecological footprint in a couple of ways. First, you’re keeping your waste out of the landfill, but second, your repurposing efforts mean there won’t be a need to use fresh resources to make new concrete. You’re basically extending the life of your concrete, which is a sustainable act.
Consider concrete disposal cost
Whether it’s a wall, old stairs or a foundation, concrete is in many structures in residential and commercial properties. When you take on a project that involves demolition, there is a high likelihood you’ll encounter concrete. All that weight can lead to big expenditures, which is why you need to consider your options carefully. One of the most cost-effective means of disposing of any type of waste is by renting a dumpster. These units are able to hold tons of material and you have plenty of time to load up the dumpster before it is carried off by the rental company. It’s a transparent process, which means you can tally your costs before you even get your dumpster and rely on the projected cost estimate for your budgeting purposes.You can also choose a junk removal service to come in and do the work for you, but this is almost always far more expensive than renting a dumpster and filling it yourself. If you are leaning toward a service to do the work, have a good idea of the type and amount of material you need removed and you will get a more accurate estimation of the cost involved.
Why is recycling concrete waste important?
One of the more common materials in demolition waste in America is concrete. Anything that can be done to keep concrete out of landfills is a step in the right direction for the environment. So, why is concrete recycling a big deal? Concrete doesn’t decompose in the landfill like other materials, which means it will forever take up a lot of space instead of decomposing and converting into methane, which can be captured and used as a renewable source of energy. Concrete waste removal jobs that include a plan for recycling take some of the burden out of new material production, which also takes some strain off the environment. Properly disposing of concrete or repurposing it is not only good for the environment, but it also has the ability to stimulate the economy, as it requires many recycling jobs to keep up with the tons of materials being sent to recycling centers on a daily basis.
How do you get rid of concrete safely?
One of the most important questions you can ask at the onset of a waste removal project is, “how do you get rid of concrete in a safe manner?” The process requires some planning if you’re going to maintain efficiency. For example, will you rent a dumpster and do the work yourself or is it safer to bring in a service to do the work for you? Consider the following steps to come to your decision:
1. Determine what type of concrete you’re dealing with and if you will need separate receptacles for clean (inert) vs. “dirty” concrete.
2. How much concrete will need to be removed?
3. Do you have sufficient room for a dumpster on your property and close to where the concrete is currently located? Is there an area where the concrete can be moved temporarily?
4. Which materials can be recycled/repurposed and which materials need to go to the landfill?
The more planning you can do prior to the project, the more streamlined and safer the project will go. Even when the project is “small,” concrete can be a significant burden if its disposal is not carefully considered beforehand.
9 ways to dispose of or recycle your old concrete
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has reported that concrete debris generated in construction and demolition represents a big portion of waste that contributes to environmental concerns. If you’re looking for a way to ease the environmental impact of your project, knowing what to do with your concrete is going to help quite a bit. Does the landfill take on some of the concrete disposal load? Yes, but there are definitely other ways to dispose of old concrete that you should consider, whether you’re a contractor or a homeowner. From reuse to concrete recycling – there are plenty of options. We’ve compiled the following ways to safely and responsibly dispose of or recycle your old concrete:
1. Rent a roll-off dumpster to haul away your concrete
One of the most popular methods for concrete removal is to rent a concrete dumpster, which is one of the smaller units built to handle dense materials like concrete, brick and cinder blocks and capable of holding up to 10 tons of waste. A dumpster rental for concrete is popular because it is cost effective, but also extremely convenient. If you’re looking for flexibility because it’s going to take some time to remove your concrete, renting a dumpster for a week is a good option for you. Furthermore, when you throw away concrete on your own, you’re saving money on the labor you would otherwise spend on a service. Flexibility and cost-effectiveness are the two biggest perks when you rent a dumpster for your concrete removal needs. When you’ve got the physical abilities to do the work and the time it takes to load a dumpster, this is going to be the option for you.
2. Recycling concrete at a construction and demolition recycling center
Recycling concrete is gaining popularity as more and more construction and demolition recycling center options become available. In an effort to be more environmentally responsible, homeowners and contractors turn to recycling centers to redirect their concrete waste, which essentially repurposes the material that would otherwise be a burden to landfills. Most centers specialize in grinding the concrete into a material that can be used in all types of applications and become a vital component in everything from roads to driveways. This recycled material can also be used in new concrete, which eases the impact created on resources for new materials.
3. Take it to a local concrete supplier
Your local concrete supplier is almost always on the lookout for base materials they don’t have to pay for, which is why they will gladly take your concrete waste. In fact, they’ve got equipment on site specifically for processing old concrete waste to make it a usable material in the production of new concrete. Your local concrete company might also have the resources for picking up your concrete, which would be a great timesaver, so be sure to check on their pickup services. There is a higher likelihood that they will take delivery of concrete waste, so reach out to them first and inquire about the process of dropping it off, as well as ensure they will take your specific type of concrete.
4. Contact a local landscaping company
Your local landscaping company might be a great option for concrete waste disposal, because they do much more than just deal in foliage. Many landscaping companies implement concrete in their work, such as planters large and small. Discarded concrete is also repurposed by these businesses in retaining walls, flower boxes and other concrete structures they build for customers. It’s not unusual for landscaping companies to say up front that they will not accept almost any type of organic waste, which includes sod, grass or wood. Some are also not willing to accept brick. However, asphalt and concrete can be easily repurposed and saves them money on base materials when they can get them via local donations. Check with your local landscaper to see if they charge a fee for accepting your donated concrete waste.
5. Hire a junk removal company for concrete waste disposal
For some homeowners and businesses, having someone available to do the heavy lifting is invaluable. This is what a junk removal company can do for you – step in and get your concrete waste disposal covered. They will remove it from your site, place it in a dumpster (or any receptacle) and haul it off to its next destination, whether that’s a landfill or a place where it will be repurposed. When you hire a junk removal service, inform them of the amount of concrete you need removed and they will give you a cost estimate, the bulk of which will include the price of labor. This is a highly convenient option for those who don’t have the time or energy to move the heavy concrete waste on their own.
6. Donate concrete to your community
Is your concrete pile small and easy to move? This is a good situation for donating it to a community group that can swoop in and get rid of your clutter, but also reuse it for community projects, which can range from community gardens to parks and local social service projects. Some work might be required on your part to get the concrete to a place where it can be picked up easily by the community group, but you can also post on sites like Craigslist that you’re open to donating your concrete waste to good causes that will come and do all the work for you. For those who want to do something for the community and also keep it friendly to the environment, connecting with local community groups is a great option.
7. Sell your concrete
When the opportunity to make money rather than spend it while getting rid of your concrete waste is an option, who wouldn’t jump on the chance? While there is no guarantee that your plan to make a little cash with your concrete waste disposal will actually happen, it’s worth a try for a number of reasons. For example, you could stipulate that the buyer is responsible for picking it up and hauling it away. You can also arrange for pickup at a time and date that is most convenient for you. And of course, the obvious perk is that you make money off the deal. From posting signs around your neighborhood to posting on Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace or any other online forum, there are many ways to get the word out about your concrete for sale. There is a chance that if you have tons of concrete, you’ll only sell a portion of it, but that might fund removing the remainder of the concrete that doesn’t sell.
8. Reuse concrete yourself
When your concrete has served its purpose in one fashion, is there another purpose it can fill? For example, do you need material for a garden border or perhaps create steps for a walkway in your yard? How about base material for an outdoor structure, such as the foundation of a new shed? When you reuse concrete you save money on new material purchases, but you’re also taking the proactive step of recycling, which helps the environment. Concrete debris that you are able to reuse on your property saves you the hassle of finding a new “home” for it. Rather than taking the time to plan where the concrete will go and how it will get there, you can bypass all the planning and the expense by reusing it.
9. Take concrete to a local landfill or transfer station
Among the top considerations in getting rid of waste is taking it to the local landfill. For those who have transportation capable of hauling concrete at their disposal, taking it to the landfill can be one of the most convenient and cost-effective options. Rather than paying hundreds of dollars to have your waste removed by professionals, you can do it yourself and pay around $40 per ton. Check with your landfill to ensure that concrete disposal there is allowed, but rarely will this be an issue. Also, before you make the landfill your final decision, consider that there are other eco-friendly methods of concrete disposal, including recycling it via selling it or donating it to those who can repurpose your old concrete. Most homeowners will look for the most convenient, easiest and cost-effective method for getting rid of concrete, but there is also a commitment to the environment that must be considered and should be part of the decision-making process. Also, there is a possibility that taking a more eco-friendly route could also be more convenient for you. When you partner with A City Suburban Dumpsters, you get a team of professionals committed to helping. When you make the decision to bring a dumpster into your concrete removal project, we’ve got you covered.
How much does it cost to dispose of concrete?
When tackling a project that involves concrete waste, one of the first questions is, “how much does it cost to dispose of concrete?” As you might have guessed, the more concrete you have in weight, the more it will cost to get rid of. Concrete disposal fees at a landfill average around $40 per ton, which is a low-cost option for those who have the transportation capable of handling vast amounts of weight. For those with the right transportation, have a landfill nearby, the time and brawn to do the work, and perhaps take multiple trips to the landfill before all the concrete is gone, this is a cost-effective option. You can also hire a junk removal service, but this is one of the least budget-friendly options (starting at around $600), as you will be paying for others to do the work and labor is by far the top expense in any home or business improvement project. You will have to work out with the removal service in advance exactly how much you will require them to remove before they can give you an estimate, which may change during the project if the estimate isn’t accurate. For others, paying to rent a dumpster and having the rental company remove it when full is the best option. The dumpster cost will start at around $340 at A City Suburban Dumpster. This is the price of the company’s six cubic-yard dumpster, which is perfect for concrete waste disposal, and includes drop off and pick up.
Compare the costs of different concrete disposal options
| Concrete disposal option | Cost |
|---|---|
| Cost to rent a dumpster | Concrete dumpsters range from 6 cubic yards to 10 cubic yards. The price ranges from $340 to $390, respectively. |
| Cost of a junk removal service | A full bedload of concrete will cost around $600 to remove, but for larger projects where 8 tons of concrete is removed, the cost will be closer to $2,400. |
| Cost to dump concrete waste yourself | Pay roughly $40 per ton in tipping fees at your local landfill. This assumes no cost associated with dumpster or truck rental. |
Your budget and circumstances will dictate the best option for you, but when the budget is the top concern, doing the work yourself and transporting your concrete waste will be the best option. In any situation, carefully consider all the factors that can influence cost, especially when transportation and labor are entering into the equation.
Rent a dumpster to dispose of concrete in the Chicago area
If you find yourself with a substantial amount of concrete waste in the Chicago area, renting a dumpster is a convenient and efficient option for its disposal. Renting a dumpster in Chicago for concrete disposal allows you to schedule the delivery at your convenience and work at your own pace. Whether it's concrete debris from a home renovation, construction project, or any other cleanup, a dumpster can handle a wide range of concrete materials. You can fill it as you go along, and when you're finished, simply arrange for a pickup. This straightforward approach minimizes the hassle of transporting heavy concrete to a disposal site. Plus, it ensures that the concrete waste is properly managed and not left to clutter your property. Whether you're a homeowner or a contractor, renting a dumpster in Chicago provides an effective solution for disposing of concrete waste with ease and peace of mind.
Which dumpster size do you need for concrete debris removal?
The most successful outcomes of a project involving concrete debris removal are those that determine in advance the size of the dumpster required. For example, prior to reaching out to a rental company, the amount and type of debris should be estimated, thereby providing the much-needed information for determining which dumpster will work best for the project. The following information about the two most popular options for concrete disposal, as well as the corresponding maximum capacity limits, can help guide you to the right decision.
6 cubic yard concrete dumpster
Cost-effective and compact enough to fit in tight spaces, the 6-cubic-yard dumpster is a popular option for concrete disposal. It is well-suited for projects involving small, dense materials like concrete. This dumpster can handle up to 8 tons or 16,000 pounds of material, provided that the concrete is not mixed with anything other than dirt or bricks.
10 cubic yard concrete dumpster
The 10-cubic-yard dumpster is among the most popular choices for concrete waste removal. Frequently used by both contractors and homeowners, it's ideal for demolition projects that include concrete. This versatile unit can handle up to 10 tons or 20,000 pounds of material, provided the concrete is not mixed with anything other than dirt or bricks.
The service team at A City Suburban Dumpsters has years of experience helping customers dispose of concrete and other heavy waste. When you call to place your dumpster order, we’ll discuss your needs and get you the right size for your job.
Contact a reputable Chicago dumpster rental company for fast and affordable concrete disposal
Gaining access to the things you need for your project, including an affordable dumpster rental, will help the process go more smoothly. To that end, working with a trusted, reputable and long-time dumpster rental company will definitely be a step in the right direction. When Chicago-area folks look for a hassle-free solution for their concrete removal needs, they go to A City Suburban Dumpsters. Our focus is on serving our customers with affordable solutions, but also provide services that help our customers manage their projects more efficiently, such as being punctual with our drop off and delivery times. When services are supplied in a seamless fashion, projects involving concrete waste are a total success. The cost of our rental service is transparent, so there is no worry about tacked-on fees. It’s a cost-effective and convenient process from start to finish. Need help getting the right dumpster for your concrete waste removal? Contact us at A City Suburban Dumpsters and we can walk you through your options.
Frequently asked questions about concrete waste disposal
The onset of any project is bound to involve many questions, including those regarding how to best manage waste removal. From deciding how to collect waste to routing it to the right place for disposal, we’ve got you covered in this FAQ.
Can concrete go in a dumpster?
One of the most popular choices for concrete waste removal is a concrete dumpster, so yes – you can utilize a dumpster for your concrete. It’s a convenient and efficient method of getting rid of concrete, and given the dense characteristics of concrete, most clients must choose the 6- or 10-cubic-yard units.
Can you throw concrete in with your residential trash?
The waste that goes into a standard trash can shouldn’t be mixed with concrete waste, as it usually requires separate disposal methods. Check with your local trash haulers, but most will ask that you not include such items as bricks, mulch, dirt or concrete with your household trash.
What is inert waste?
Simply put, inert waste does not decompose like organic waste. When considering what is inert waste compared to organic waste, think of discarded materials from the kitchen, such as leftover produce, which will rot and break down very quickly. Concrete and other inert materials are unreactive chemically and biologically. Concrete waste disposal methods take this into account, as concrete will not break down in landfills and is why it is commonly repurposed.
Is it possible to recycle concrete?
Not only can you recycle concrete, it’s one of the preferred methods. Recycling concrete is an environmentally-friendly practice that not only keeps the material out of landfills, but it also takes the strain off of resources for the development of new materials. Recycled concrete will find its way into many different structures, from roads to landscaping.
How to dispose of concrete mix?
Knowing how to dispose of concrete mix properly will avoid various contamination issues. For example, having a dedicated disposal method for concrete alone will provide a better path to disposal at local recycling centers where only clean concrete mix is accepted. Check with your local waste management services to see if they offer free heavy debris pickup, which includes concrete mix.
How to dispose of concrete chunks?
Chunks of concrete can be a challenge due to their awkward bulk and weight. Utilizing a concrete dumpster is the best way to approach how to dispose of concrete chunks, as a dedicated unit can be used to haul the chunks to a recycling center that accepts clean concrete. Some local waste management services will also collect concrete chunks for repurposing later.
How to get rid of concrete blocks?
As with any weighty material, locating the nearest entity that accepts concrete waste is the best option. This includes recycling centers or organizations that accept donations. When the question of how to dispose of concrete blocks becomes the focus, doing everything in your power to divert the material away from landfills and toward repurposing should be the goal.
How to dispose of broken concrete?
Call it concrete “rubble” or broken concrete, careful planning will help determine the path forward. Knowing how to dispose of broken concrete begins with establishing whether the concrete is clean or contaminated with paint or organic material, as this will determine where it can be taken. For most people, bringing in a concrete dumpster for rent is the most convenient and efficient way of managing broken concrete.
How to easily haul concrete to your rental dumpster?
Safety first! As with any improvement project, taking steps to keep everyone safe is paramount. Concrete is not only heavy, it can be dangerous if rebar is protruding or other sharp objects are embedded in it. But its weight can also pose a risk. To make it easier to haul, break it down into manageable pieces first. Rather than straining to carry it to your dumpster, the smaller pieces will be more manageable and reduce the risk of strain/injury. Bringing in extra hands for those larger pieces can also make concrete pick-up tasks easier.
How much concrete can you dispose of in a dumpster?
The amount of concrete you can deposit in your dumpster is determined by the size of the dumpster and its weight limit. For example, at A City Suburban Dumpsters, our 6-cubic-yard dumpster dumpster can hold a maximum of 16,000 pounds (8 tons), provided the concrete is not mixed with any material other than dirt or bricks. Similarly, our 10-cubic-yard dumpster has a maximum capacity of 20,000 pounds (10 tons), with the same condition that it can only be mixed with dirt or bricks.
Can I mix other items with concrete in a roll-off dumpster?
The decision to allow the mixing of other materials with your concrete dumpster rental is determined by the rental company, which is responsible for the disposal of the items. Some companies require that concrete waste be kept separate from other types of waste, as this simplifies proper disposal. At A City Suburban Dumpsters, we permit mixed heavy waste, including concrete, brick, and dirt, in a single container. Our 6-yard dumpsters have an 8-ton weight limit, while the 10-yard dumpsters can accommodate up to 10 tons. Additionally, we also allow mixing other types of waste, with a weight limit of up to 2 tons for the 6-yard dumpsters and 2.5 tons for the 10-yard dumpsters.
Call to order
Contact Us