Did you just complete your construction project? Are you looking for ways to dispose of your construction and demolition debris? Debris management for construction and demolition (C&D) projects is a major task for most building sectors. In 2018, approximately 90% of C&D debris is produced from demolition while the remaining 10% is generated from construction according to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Luckily for you, DTG Recycle has you covered!

DTG Recycle provides hassle-free debris solutions and recycling services for C&D debris including glass, plastic, concrete, asphalt, drywall or sheetrock, metal, cardboard, paper, roofing, batteries, Styrofoam, wood, crushed rocks, dirt, and bricks. With our 20+ years of experience in the debris management and recycling industry, you are sure to get the quality service that you deserve.

Construction Debris Recycling Services

Reliable Solution to Your Construction and Demolition Debris

At DTG Recycle, we utilize advanced sorting technologies to recognize and efficiently sort materials. DTG Recycle has C&D Debris Recycling Centers all over Washington State. You may also drop off your construction and demolition debris at our locations. Contact us for a price quote for construction and demolition debris recycling.

Let us take a look at the most common C&D debris materials, their recycling processes, and why you should recycle them.

Call Us: (425) 549-4905
See Our Locations

Request a Quote

How to Dispose of Construction and Demolition Debris for Recycling?

Proper disposal of C&D debris is crucial for successful recycling. Knowing where to dispose of used materials can be challenging, but renting a dumpster can simplify the process. Heavy materials such as concrete, brick, and asphalt can be especially difficult to dispose of. However, thanks to our dumpster rental service, collection and removal of your C&D debris is made easier and stress-free.

What are the Most Common Construction and Demolition Debris Materials?

Construction and Demolition materials are generated during the construction, renovation, demolition, and deconstruction of buildings and infrastructure. These materials can be categorized into four types: concrete, masonry, wood, and mixed debris. Below are some of the most common construction and demolition materials.

  • Glass
  • Plastic
  • Concrete
  • Metal
  • Cardboard
  • Paper
  • Roofing
  • Battery
  • Styrofoam
  • Asphalt
  • Drywall
  • Wood
  • Crushed Rocks
  • Bricks
  • Dirt

How are Construction and Demolition Debris Recycled?

Construction and Demolition Debris can be recycled through various methods depending on the type of material. Some materials can be sorted and reused directly, while others need to be processed into new products. Here are some of the common ways C&D debris is recycled.

How is Glass Recycled?

Glass recycling involves the collection and processing of used glass products to create new glass products. The recycling process begins with the collection of glass containers and other glass products such as windows and mirrors. Once collected, the glass is sorted by color and cleaned to remove any impurities such as labels, caps, and food residue. The cleaned glass is then crushed into small pieces called a cullet. Cullet is melted in a furnace along with other raw materials such as soda ash, limestone, and sand to create new glass products. The process of using a cullet to make new glass products saves energy and raw materials while reducing the amount of debris sent to landfills.

Recycling glass has numerous environmental benefits. The production of new glass products from recycled glass requires less energy than the production of new glass from raw materials, reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Additionally, glass recycling conserves natural resources, as the raw materials used in the production of glass products are non-renewable. Glass Recycling also reduces the amount of debris sent to landfills, as glass products can take thousands of years to decompose in a landfill.

How to Recycle Plastic?

Plastic recycling is the process of reprocessing used plastic to produce new materials that can be used in the production of different products. Plastic Recycling involves different steps, which may vary depending on the type of plastic being recycled. The first step in plastic recycling is collecting and sorting the plastic. This is usually done by municipalities, debris management companies, or recycling facilities. The collected plastic is then sorted by type, cleaned, and shredded into small pieces.

After sorting and shredding, the plastic is melted down and processed into small pellets, which can be used to make new plastic products. The pellets are then sold to manufacturers who use them to produce a wide range of products such as plastic bags, toys, furniture, and automotive parts. Plastic recycling is an important process that helps to conserve natural resources, reduce the amount of plastic in landfills, and reduce pollution. It also saves energy and reduces greenhouse gas emissions compared to producing new plastic materials from scratch.

How is Concrete Recycled?

Concrete recycling involves the process of crushing concrete into small pieces and utilizing it as an aggregate in fresh concrete. To remove metal and other contaminants, the process makes use of specialized machinery such as crushers, screens, and magnets. After that, the crushed concrete can be utilized as a foundation material for building roads, parking lots, and other structures. It can occasionally be used in place of gravel or other natural materials. Concrete Recycling has several advantages, including a decrease in the requirement for new materials, the preservation of landfill space, and a lessening of the environmental impact of concrete production. Furthermore, recycled concrete is frequently less expensive than fresh concrete, which can reduce the cost of construction projects. 

How to Recycle Metal?

Metal recycling is the process of collecting and reusing metal materials from discarded items or products. The process of Metal Recycling starts with the collection of various metals from different sources, such as homes, businesses, and industries. Once collected, the metals are sorted and processed to separate them from other materials, such as plastics, glass, and non-recyclable materials. The sorted metals are then transported to a recycling facility, where they undergo different stages of processing to convert them into new products.

Metal recycling lessens the environmental impact of mining and manufacturing operations while also conserving energy and natural resources. We can cut back on greenhouse gas emissions, water pollution, and landfill debris by recycling metal. Additionally, metal recycling helps local economies grow, provides jobs, and helps both producers and consumers save money. Recycling metals is a crucial activity that promotes environmentally friendly growth and the protection of our planet’s natural resources.

How is Cardboard Recycling done?

Cardboard recycling is the process of converting used cardboard into new paper products, including cardboard boxes, paper bags, and other paper-based materials. Collecting used cardboard from residences, companies, and other sources is the first step in the recycling of cardboard. The cardboard is then taken to a recycling center and processed, graded, and sorted there. The cardboard is cut into little pieces during processing and combined with water to make a slurry. After that, the slurry is washed to get rid of any contaminants like glue and ink. After being cleaned, the cardboard fibers are utilized to make new paper goods like paper bags and cardboard boxes. Overall, Cardboard Recycling is an effective and environmentally responsible strategy to cut debris and conserve resources.

Recycling cardboard has numerous benefits, such as reducing debris in landfills, conserving natural resources, and reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

How to Recycle Paper?

Paper recycling is the process of turning used paper into new paper products. The recycling process involves several steps, including collection, sorting, pulping, and de-inking. The collected paper is sorted by type and grade, and contaminants like staples and plastic windows are removed. Then, the sorted paper is mixed with water and chemicals to break it down into a pulp. The pulp is then cleaned, de-inked, and sometimes bleached to remove any remaining ink and other impurities. The clean pulp is then pressed and dried into new paper products.

Recycling paper has many environmental benefits. It helps to conserve natural resources like trees, water, and energy. Paper Recycling also reduces greenhouse gas emissions, as it requires less energy to produce recycled paper than virgin paper.

How is Roofing Materials Recycled?

Roofing recycling is a process of recovering asphalt shingles, metal roofing, and other roofing materials that have reached the end of their useful life. These materials are typically removed from the roof during replacement or repairs and then sent to recycling facilities where they are sorted, cleaned, and processed for reuse. The Roofing Recycling process materials varies depending on the type of material being recycled.

For instance, recycling asphalt shingles entails grinding the shingles into tiny bits that can be used as mixtures for asphalt pavement or used as fuel for commercial boilers. On the other side, metal roofing can be melted down and transformed into new metal goods. Recycling roofing materials helps to lower the price of new roofing materials while also conserving natural resources and reducing the quantity of garbage dumped in landfills.

How are Batteries Recycled?

Battery recycling is the process of recovering valuable materials from used or discarded batteries. The main purpose of recycling batteries is to prevent them from polluting the environment with toxic chemicals and metals. Many types of batteries, such as lead-acid, nickel-cadmium, and lithium-ion batteries, can be recycled.

The process of recycling batteries involves several steps. First, the batteries are sorted by chemistry and sent to a facility that specializes in recycling that particular type of battery. The batteries are then crushed into small pieces and the plastic, metal, and other materials are separated using a combination of mechanical and chemical processes. The recovered materials, such as lead, cadmium, nickel, and cobalt, can be used to make new batteries or other products. Battery recycling helps to conserve natural resources and reduce the environmental impact of producing new batteries.

How to Recycle Styrofoam?

Styrofoam recycling involves melting the material down and then using it to create new products such as picture frames, crown molding, and park benches. The process starts with sorting the styrofoam by color and type. Then, the styrofoam is shredded and compressed into denser blocks for transportation to a recycling facility. At the recycling facility, the styrofoam is melted down using heat and chemicals to break it down into a liquid form, which is then solidified into pellets. These pellets can then be used to manufacture new products, such as insulation, packing peanuts, and surfboards. One of the challenges with styrofoam recycling is the low market value of recycled styrofoam. This makes it difficult for recycling facilities to cover the costs of the recycling process. Additionally, Styrofoam Recycling is not widely available in all areas, and many recycling programs do not accept it. Therefore, it is important to check with your local recycling program to see if they accept styrofoam and how it should be prepared for recycling. Some retailers and shipping companies also offer styrofoam drop-off locations for recycling.

How does Asphalt Recycling work?

Asphalt recycling is the process of reusing asphalt pavement materials to create new pavement. The process involves removing old asphalt pavement and processing it to produce new asphalt. The recycled asphalt, also known as reclaimed asphalt pavement (RAP), is typically mixed with new asphalt binder and aggregate to produce new pavement with the same performance characteristics as pavement made from new materials.

The process of asphalt recycling starts with milling the old pavement. The milling machine removes the old asphalt pavement to a depth of several inches. The material is then transported to an asphalt plant where it is crushed and screened to remove any debris and ensure that the material is of a consistent size. The RAP is then mixed with new asphalt binder and aggregate to produce new pavement. The amount of RAP that can be used in new pavement varies depending on factors such as the quality of the RAP and the specifications of the new pavement, but using RAP in new pavement can provide cost savings and reduce the environmental impact of road construction.

How is Drywall Recycling done?

Drywall, also known as gypsum board, is a commonly used material in construction. While it is a highly useful material, it also generates a significant amount of debris during construction, renovation, and demolition. Drywall is typically composed of gypsum, paper, and additives. In the past, old drywalls would have been disposed of in landfills, but today, it can be recycled.

The drywall recycling process involves grinding up the material into a fine powder. This powder is then separated into its individual components: gypsum and paper. The gypsum is processed into new drywall or other products such as cement, while the paper is recycled into new paper products. The additives in the drywall are usually burned off during the recycling process, which can generate energy that can be used to power the recycling facility. The drywall recycling process helps to conserve resources and reduce debris in landfills.

How to Recycle Crushed Rocks, Dirt, and Bricks?

Below are the ways of recycling crushed rocks, dirt, and bricks.

  • Crushed rock recycling involves collecting and sorting crushed rocks based on size. Then, the crushed rocks are removed from any contaminants or materials that may affect the recycling process.
  • Dirt recycling starts with determining if the dirt is suitable for recycling. Rocks, debris, or vegetation are removed from the dirt.
  • Brick recycling starts with gathering all the bricks you wish to recycle from your construction or demolition site. Excess mortar, debris, or other contaminants are then removed from the bricks. Afterward, the bricks are sorted based on their condition. Clean and intact bricks are separated from damaged or broken ones. This allows for efficient recycling and reuse.

How to Recycle Wood?

Recycling wood involves collecting discarded wood products then sorting them in accordance with various wood grades. The next step is to remove the contaminants. Any non-wood materials or contaminants, such as metal nails or screws, are removed from the wood. The sorted wood is fed into a primary shredder, which breaks it down into smaller pieces or chips. This shredding process facilitates subsequent handling and processing. The shredded wood material is screened to separate different sizes and remove any remaining impurities or contaminants. This step helps achieve a more uniform product. The wood chips or pieces are further processed through secondary shredding or granulating machines to create wood mulch or other products. Fine shredding ensures a consistent particle size and enhances the suitability of the wood for specific applications.

Why Recycle Construction and Demolition Debris?

Here are the reasons to recycle construction and demolition debris.

  • Reduces the need for landfill space
  • Conserves natural resources by reducing the demand for virgin materials
  • Decreases greenhouse gas emissions by reducing the need for virgin materials extraction and transportation
  • Saves energy and resources required for manufacturing new materials
  • Creates jobs in the recycling and debris management industries
  • Saves money by reducing disposal costs and generating revenue through the sale of recycled materials.

Statistics on Construction and Demolition Debris Recycling

76% of all C&D debris was Recycled

According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), in 2018, approximately 76% of all C&D debris in the United States was recycled with over 95% of concrete and asphalt concrete debris, and 98% of steel as the largest contributors. Every year, about 650 million tonnes of steel are recycled across the globe. For every 135 million tons of recycled C&D debris, it can lessen U.S. landfill expansion by 1,000 acres. 1

175,000 new jobs created from C&D recycling opportunities

In 2016, C&D recycling opportunities resulted in creating 175,000 new jobs in the United States. Recycling and reuse jobs outweigh typical garbage disposal occupations 9-to-1. 1

Need a Quote? Contact Us for Construction and Demolition Debris Recycling Prices

To get a quote for your construction and demolition debris recycling needs, contact us today at (425) 549-3000. Our team at DTG Recycle is happy to cater to your construction and demolition debris recycling requirements. Whether you require regular construction debris recycling, frequent construction debris drop-offs, or a one-time service, we are committed to providing our customers with affordable and personalized recycling solutions that meet their unique requirements.

Construction and Demolition Debris Recycling Drop-off Locations

DTG Recycle has Construction and Demolition Debris Recycling Centers near you.

Our Locations:

FAQs for Construction & Demolition Debris Recycling

Where can I recycle Construction and Demolition Debris?

Construction and demolition debris can be recycled at most recycling centers in many areas. Check with your local recycling program for specific guidelines on how to recycle construction and demolition debris in your area.

Can I make money by recycling Construction and Demolition Debris?

Recycling construction and demolition debris (C&D) can bring in a profit. As more sectors and customers want sustainable and ecologically friendly products, the market for recycled C&D materials is expanding. Recycling C&D debris can lead to the creation of new jobs and financial gain through the selling of recycled goods. The type of material, its quality, and the market demand all affect the value of recovered C&D debris products.

Metals and concrete, for example, frequently have higher values than other types of materials. It is crucial to keep in mind that recycling C&D needs careful planning, sorting, and processing, all of which can be expensive. Before beginning a C&D recycling firm, a feasibility study and market analysis are crucial.

How many times can Construction Debris be recycled?

Depending on the type of material and the quality of the recycled product, different C&D debris materials can be recycled a different number of times. Generally speaking, while some materials, like treated wood and insulation, cannot be recycled, others, like concrete, bricks, and asphalt, can be recycled numerous times. Concrete and asphalt can be recycled more than once, whereas metals like steel and copper can be recycled indefinitely, according to NWRA.

However, the quality deterioration that takes place throughout each recycling process places a limit on how many times wood and paper goods can be recycled. It is crucial to remember that the technology and tools used can also affect how many times a material can be recycled.

Which construction debris materials are not recyclable?

  • Asbestos
  • Treated wood (e.g., pressure-treated lumber)
  • Biomedical equipment (e.g., needles, syringes, medical equipment)
  • Radioactive materials
  • Contaminated soil
  • Hazardous chemicals and materials (e.g., solvents, pesticides, lead-based paint)
  • Certain plastics (e.g., PVC pipes)
  • Polystyrene foam (e.g., Styrofoam)
  • Food and organic scraps

References
1 23 Construction Debris Statistics | BigRentz. Retrieved June 15, 2023, from https://www.bigrentz.com/