Construction recycling
How to Recycle Windows
Complete window units with glass and wood, vinyl, or aluminum frames. EPA's C&D hierarchy favors salvage and reuse before recycling. When units are broken, pull metal for scrap and handle glass as C&D. Coated and tempered glass does not belong in bottle recycling.
Check local acceptanceReusable units: tens to hundreds of dollars depending on size and style. Aluminum scrap: market price per pound. Mixed broken units: tip fee.Last reviewed July 31, 2026
Quick answer
Donate intact windows to Habitat ReStore or salvage first. Frames and glass are mixed materials, so they are not bottle-glass recycling. Scrap aluminum frames separately; leftover glass usually goes through C&D.
- Recycling route
- Check locally
- Typical value
- Reusable units: tens to hundreds of dollars depending on size and style. Aluminum scrap: market price per pound. Mixed broken units: tip fee.
- Donate / take-back
- Available
How to Prepare
- 1Evaluate intact units for donation or salvage before you break them down.
- 2