DIYers - Where do you put construction waste?

Teresa D
by Teresa D
I am seriously considering replacing my backsplash myself but one concern I have is how to dispose of the existing tile after demolition. It is about 27 square feet of ceramic tile. Can I just put it in my trash can for regular curb pick up? Do I need to call and make special arrangements? How do you guys who DIY dispose of larger than normal or construction debris?
  8 answers
  • 3po3 3po3 on May 15, 2012
    I post a lot of my construction scrap on Craigslist. You might be surprised by the stuff people want. This tile could be a great resource for mosaic artists and such.
  • Depending upon your garbage pick up will depend upon how you would rid yourself of this debris. Many towns have restrictions on what you can and cannot put in your regular garbage. My town allows just about anything, but as a contractor I am limited on that account. We do have a local dump that pretty takes anything I can generate at my own home, but cannot throw out debris from my projects at other owners homes. Unless they live in my town. I would contact your local disposal company and ask them about this. They may suggest that you put smaller portions of the debris in plastic bags and dispose of it over a few trash cycles. hint hint. Bagster found at the big box stores is also another way to rid yourself of larger debris piles. This is a bag that you purchase for a one time use that you set in the driveway and fill up. A phone number is provided with this bag which you call when its time for pick up. The dumpster company comes along and using a small crane like device picks up the bag and puts it in their truck. This works fine, but is a bit expensive as compared to getting a small roll off or roll around dumpster set in the yard for a few days. Lastly there are tons of companies that pick up trash. These scavengers give you a set price to haul it away. You often can negotiate the price a bit, but they do all the work of putting it in the truck. All you need to do is have a pile for them to pick up.
  • Designs by BSB Designs by BSB on May 16, 2012
    we've put some of ours in our dumpster.. shhh dont tell no one :)
  • 360 Sod (Donna Dixson) 360 Sod (Donna Dixson) on May 16, 2012
    Post it on Craigs list in the free stuff. Post here on your homepage for other DIY folks that are incredibly crafty. I am amazed at all the repurposed projects I see on this site!
  • KMS Woodworks KMS Woodworks on May 16, 2012
    I put small amounts in with my domestic trash. ( we haul it ourselves to our transfer station) for large stuff the transfer station has dedicated "roll offs" appliances get recycled at the same location.
  • Pam Pam on May 16, 2012
    Our City has certain days they put up things like this. Call your city and ask if they do that.
  • McKennon Farell McKennon Farell on Mar 05, 2015
    It is definitely advisable to hire professional waste removal services in order not to create unnecessary problems in the near future. The experts will know where to dispose the waste products and they will only use proper handling methods so as to keep you safe from harm. They will also ensure that every single piece of rubbish is well taken care of without leaving any trace behind to cause displeasure.
  • Dee Dee on Jul 08, 2015
    You might try calling your local habitat for humanity restore shop. They may have someone who would take the tile or maybe even remove and take it from you if you will donate it to them. You can also check with Home Depot, they may be able to give you advice on how to remove and get rid of the tile.