Checklist for Recycling Construction Materials
By Graham Mann | Published: 9/9/2025
Learn how to effectively recycle construction materials to save costs, reduce waste, and promote sustainable practices in your projects.
Checklist for Recycling Construction Materials Recycling construction materials saves money, reduces waste, and protects resources. Whether you're a contractor or a DIYer, understanding what can and can't be recycled is key to efficient waste management. Here's a quick breakdown: Materials You Can Recycle: - Wood: Clean, untreated lumber can become mulch, fuel, or new materials. - Concrete & Masonry: Crushed for new concrete or road base. - Metals: Copper, steel, aluminum, and more can be endlessly recycled. - Drywall: Reused for new drywall or soil amendments. - Glass: Repurposed into new products or aggregate for concrete. - Certain Plastics: PVC pipes, polyethylene sheeting, and foam insulation (if clean and sorted). Materials You Can't Recycle: - Pressure-Treated Wood: Chemicals make it unsuitable. - Asbestos: Requires special disposal due to health risks. - Lead-Based Paint: Non-recyclable and hazardous. - Contaminated Materials: Exposure to toxic substances ruins recyclability. -...
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