How to Recycle Construction
Building materials from construction and demolition: concrete, asphalt pavement, wood, drywall, brick, roofing, and related C&D debris. Sort by type and haul to a C&D yard, crusher, or specialty program. Not curbside.
Concrete
Drywall
Wood/Lumber
Asphalt Shingles
Metal Roofing
Insulation
Brick
Carpet/Flooring
Vinyl Siding
Windows
Doors
Plumbing Fixtures
Asphalt
Installation
Find construction recycling centers
Browse recycling listings for construction, then contact a facility to confirm what it accepts.
Construction and demolition (C&D)
What C&D waste includes
Construction and demolition debris is a large share of landfill tonnage. Separate wood, metal, concrete, and drywall so a facility can take each stream.
- • Aggregates: Concrete, asphalt, bricks, stones
- • Wood: Lumber, pallets, plywood, chips
- • Metals: Steel, copper wiring, aluminum frames
- • Drywall: Gypsum board for agriculture or new wallboard
Benefits of Deconstruction
"Deconstruction" separates materials carefully for reuse, unlike demolition. It creates more jobs and recovers valuable architectural salvage.
Why sort C&D?
- • Cuts tipping fees, which run $40 to $100 per ton
- • Earns potential tax benefits for donated materials
- • Complies with local waste diversion ordinances
- • Conserves limited landfill space
Construction Recycling FAQ
Plan the strip-out before demolition so salvageable material comes off the site before mixed debris is loaded.
Can I recycle drywall?
Yes! Clean drywall scraps (new construction) are highly recyclable into new drywall, cement, or agricultural gypsum. Painted or demolition drywall is harder to recycle and requires testing.
How do I recycle concrete?
Concrete is crushed into aggregate for road base, driveways, and construction fill. Many asphalt and concrete plants accept clean rubble for free or a low fee.
What about treated wood?
Pressure-treated or painted wood cannot be recycled into mulch due to chemicals. It typically must be landfilled. Untreated lumber and pallets are excellent candidates for recycling.
Do I need to separate construction waste?
Yes! Source-separating metals, cardboard, wood, and masonry at the job site saves money. Mixed 'C&D' loads are expensive to tip, while separated loads can even pay (metals).