Demolition Material Management Options

Asphalt — Can be recycled by using it, along with earth components, in the manufacturing of new asphalt pavement. It also can be used as clean fill, on- or off-site, if allowed by local and state regulations.

Electrical Wiring and Fixtures — Metal components are recycled, while other components typically are disposed of in solid waste disposal facilities.

Insulation — This traditionally pertains to non-asbestos building materials, rigid polystyrene, fiberglass bat and roofing materials. It is disposed of in bulky waste or solid waste disposal facilities as allowed by state and local regulations.

Masonry and Rubble — This includes bricks, cinder blocks, concrete, mortar, porcelain, rock, stone and tile. These materials can be used as clean fill or recycled. Processing, such as crushing, may be required, if allowed by state and local regulations.

Metal — Typically this is obtained from plumbing, electrical areas, gutters, structural areas, rebar and stud products. It can be recycled profitably and usually is sold to a scrap metal dealer who, in turn, sells the scrap to a smelter for recycling.

Plastics — These are obtained from pipe, plastic foam, vinyl siding and laminate. These items can be recycled economically (conditionally, that is, if a local market exists). Otherwise, they may be disposed of in a bulky waste landfill.

Roofing Materials — These items include non-asbestos shingles, built-up roofing material and tar paper. These materials can be recycled as an aggregate in asphalt pavements or disposed of in a bulky waste landfill.

Vinyl — Obtained frequently from siding, flooring, doors and windows. Some of these items can be reused if removed intact. Otherwise, they may be disposed of in a bulky waste or solid waste disposal area, as allowed by local or state regulations.