Construction recycling
How to Recycle Wood/Lumber
Dimensional lumber, framing, plywood, and wood debris from building and demolition. EPA estimated about 40.8 million tons of C&D wood products in 2018. Landfill was the primary national destination; clean untreated wood has grind and reclaim markets where processors exist.
Check local acceptanceReusable hardwood and long clear boards can sell. Grind stock is usually a tip fee or low-value commodity. Treated wood is typically a disposal cost only.Last reviewed July 31, 2026
Quick answer
Clean untreated C&D lumber can go to grind, biomass, or salvage. Pressure-treated and CCA wood is never mulch and never burned. For deeper treated-wood and pallet rules, see the Wood category.
- Recycling route
- Check locally
- Typical value
- Reusable hardwood and long clear boards can sell. Grind stock is usually a tip fee or low-value commodity. Treated wood is typically a disposal cost only.
- Donate / take-back
- Available
How to Prepare
- 1Separate untreated framing from pressure-treated, painted, and creosote wood.
- 2