There comes a time when you have to part ways with your saggy sofa, three-legged chair, or non-reclining recliner. Junk removal services can come haul away a single piece of furniture (or multiple) quickly and for less than you probably think. If your furniture is still usable, they'll even donate it on your behalf and provide you with a donation receipt. In this guide, we’ll touch on the average costs of old furniture removal, as well as other options, like renting a dumpster or hauling the furniture to a local donation center yourself.
\r\n\r\n![\"furniture](\"/sites/default/files/inline-images/furniture-removal-cost-infographic.jpg\")
\r\n![\"furniture](\"/sites/default/files/inline-images/furniture-at-the-curb.png\")
\r\nYou can expect to pay $75 or more to get a piece of furniture hauled away by a junk removal company. The minimum fee for most junk removal companies in the U.S. ranges from $75-$125. For jobs bigger than 1-3 small pieces of furniture, the costs will go up incrementally. The average cost for furniture removal by a junk removal company is $150-$500.
\r\n\r\nFurniture removal costs depend on several factors:
\r\n\r\nFurniture and junk removal are generally all-inclusive, meaning the quoted cost of the junk removal project will include pick-up, disposal, labor, cost of fuel, and any applicable taxes.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nSee what others have paid for their furniture removal project to get an idea for how much these junk removal projects cost.
\r\n\r\n| Location | \r\n\t\t\tFurniture Removal Description | \r\n\t\t\tCost | \r\n\t\t
|---|---|---|
| Fenton, MI | \r\n\t\t\tPiano | \r\n\t\t\t$310 | \r\n\t\t
| Philadelphia, PA | \r\n\t\t\tSofa, Bed Frame, Mattress | \r\n\t\t\t$225 | \r\n\t\t
| West Covina, CA | \r\n\t\t\tQueen Mattress, Box Spring | \r\n\t\t\t$110 | \r\n\t\t
| Doral, FL | \r\n\t\t\tComputer Desk, Chest, Bookshelf, 2 Side Tables, Mattress | \r\n\t\t\t$250 | \r\n\t\t
| White Marsh, MD | \r\n\t\t\tSofa | \r\n\t\t\t$125 | \r\n\t\t
| Castle Rock, CO | \r\n\t\t\tReclining Couch, Chair, Standard Couch, Wheelchair | \r\n\t\t\t$250 | \r\n\t\t
| Yonkers, NY | \r\n\t\t\tDresser, TV | \r\n\t\t\t$150 | \r\n\t\t
| League City, TX | \r\n\t\t\tQueen Mattress, 2 Full Mattresses, 3 Box Springs | \r\n\t\t\t$200 | \r\n\t\t
Should you tip a junk removal crew? You should never feel obligated to tip, but most companies do allow for tipping. One of the largest junk removal franchises in the U.S., 1-800-GOT-JUNK, says this about tipping: \"If you think the crew did a great job and you’d like to recognize their hard work, tips are always appreciated.\"
\r\n\r\nOn a more complex furniture removal job, tipping is definitely something to consider. A 10-20% tip is a good range to target for a complicated junk removal job well done. It’s also a good gesture to offer a beverage, or even snacks, to the workers for jobs that span several hours. Great service should always be rewarded!
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n![\"junk](\"/sites/default/files/inline-images/furniture-removal-junk-removal-company.png\")
\r\nOne simple way to score a nice discount on junk removal costs is to ask the junk hauler if they offer discounts for military/veterans, seniors, large haul-aways, first-time customers, or any other promotions they may be running. You can check the company’s website or Facebook page to see current offers, too.
\r\n\r\nIf you’re ready to save on the disposal of your furniture, request quotes from local junk removal companies today. Enter your city in the search box to find local dumpster rental and junk removal companies. Be sure to read customer reviews and call around to get multiple quotes for your junk removal project.
\r\nAs previously mentioned, the average nationwide cost to hire a junk removal service to remove your furniture is $150-$500. There are, however, other options at your disposal when it comes to getting rid of furniture, appliances, or other heavy items.
\r\n\r\n![\"dumpster](\"/sites/default/files/inline-images/rent-a-dumpster.png\")
\r\nA 10 yard dumpster or 20 yard dumpster is a viable option in cases where you have more than a few pieces of furniture to get rid of. Dumpster rental prices vary, but you can expect to pay around $250-$550 to rent a 10 or 20 yard dumpster. Your cost may be higher or lower depending on your location and who you rent your dumpster from. If you’re clearing out a whole home and have lots of furniture to offload, a dumpster is a cost-effective option that allows you to complete the cleanout at your own pace.
\r\n\r\nTotal Average Cost: $250-$550
\r\n\r\nKeep reading:
\r\n\r\n![\"furniture](\"/sites/default/files/inline-images/diy-furniture-removal.png\")
\r\nIf you have a trailer or truck that can safely transport the furniture, DIY furniture removal may be a cost-effective option. But keep in mind the time and costs associated with this option. For example, fuel costs can add up fast, especially if the nearest charity or landfill isn’t located right down the street or if your job requires multiple trips to complete the job. This not only adds to the fuel costs but incurs multiple dump fees at the landfill too. Hauling large items yourself is the most time-consuming method for furniture disposal since you do all the removal, loading, hauling, and unloading of the furniture on your own.
\r\n\r\nDonating or giving away furniture is a great option if the item is still in overall good condition. Damaged furniture is not something you should donate to local charitable organizations, and in fact, most will not accept it. A great resource for selling or giving away furniture is Craigslist or Facebook Marketplace, but it's not that easy to get rid of big, heavy furniture, especially if you don't live in an area with lots of traffic and passers-by. This method of furniture removal works great if you live in a mid-to-large metro area, but may not be quite as effective if you live far off the beaten path.
\r\n\r\nDonating used furniture is an excellent way to help the local community and get a tax benefit to boot. Some organizations, such as Habitat for Humanity, offer furniture pick-up services (not available in all areas).
\r\n\r\nTotal Average Cost: Free-$50+
\r\n\r\nLearn more:
\r\n\r\nFind out how much furniture removal costs. Discover your options, including junk hauling services, dumpster rental, and donation, and choose the best furniture removal method for you.
\r\n","changed":"2025-12-03T18:38:21+00:00"},{"id":"0d931cf2-33ef-56d4-860c-120c72ec1f73","title":"Complete Guide to Eco-Friendly Waste Removal","url":"/blog/eco-friendly-waste-removal-guide","image":{"path":"/static/bb9360ab155699eb7df20066a6f97d42/eco-friendly-waste.jpg","alt":"Aerial view of forest with lake in the shape of recycling symbol"},"video":null,"media_type":"image","tags":[{"id":"61ca817b-0498-5abf-bbe7-cdf5935242bc","name":"Junk Removal","slug":"Junk-Removal"},{"id":"8a088d18-16c4-5f32-8898-b75d5543d9fa","name":"Environment","slug":"Environment"},{"id":"39c3533a-c46f-509b-8fcc-19e935627151","name":"Recycling","slug":"Recycling"}],"content":"Most people don’t think twice about trash once it hits the bin and gets hauled away to the landfill.
\r\n\r\nThe fact is that in the U.S. alone, approximately 146 million tons of trash enters the municipal waste system each year, according to 2018 statistics provided by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
\r\n\r\nA large percentage of this trash is actually recyclable, reusable, or shouldn’t actually be in the municipal waste system. The key is being smart about what you’re throwing away to make sure what makes it in the bin should actually be there.
\r\n\r\nWe'll go over some helpful tips and tricks to make the most of your disposal efforts to ensure you're being as eco-conscious as possible.
\r\n\r\n![\"Complete](\"/sites/default/files/inline-images/eco-friendly-waste-removal-info_0.jpg\")
\r\nCertain items shouldn’t enter your trash bin or dumpster, including electronics, batteries, chemicals, paint, printer cartridges, yard waste, construction and demolition debris, recyclables (like plastic, paper, and metal), and tires to name a few.
\r\n\r\nMost major electronics retail stores accept used electronics for proper recycling. Motor oil and other fluids are accepted by oil change centers and most automobile dealerships. Tire dealers accept used tires for proper recycling.
\r\n\r\nA good general rule to follow is that if an item isn't safe or legal to throw away, you can often times reach out to a retailer that sells these items to see if they offer free recycling drop-off. If you can't find a free solution in your area or don't have the time, ability, or desire to haul these items to a recycler yourself, you will have to find an alternative solution.
\r\n\r\nKeep reading: Benefits of Recycling Junk vs Throwing It Away
\r\n\r\nJunk removal services are known for their ethical and intentional efforts towards eco-friendly disposal and are a top disposal choice for consumers.
\r\n\r\nWhen junk removal services are hired to haul away unwanted items, whether it be household junk, large appliances, furniture, C&D debris, yard waste, or other items, they'll sort through the removed items and separate any items that can be recycled or donated to ensure they don't end up in a landfill.
\r\n\r\nJunk removal provides eco-friendly electronics disposal, yard waste recycling, debris recycling, and will donate lightly used household items and building materials to further contribute to their local community.
\r\n\r\nIn addition to their recycling efforts, junk removal services are a consumer favorite due to their invaluable convenience. Perfect for those who physically can't move large items, don't have a hauling vehicle to do it themselves, or have busy lives and don't want to spend additional efforts arranging recycling or disposal during their free time, junk removal companies handle all the heavy lifting, loading, hauling, and disposal for you.
\r\n\r\nFor those that are looking for a long term way to sustainably reduce their landfill contributions at home, composting provides a great solution.
\r\n\r\nComposting allows you to reduce the amount of trash that makes it into the garbage can, and it can actually help you save money in the long run. Compost is the best natural fertilizer out there, and best of all, it’s completely free!
\r\n\r\nComposting is easier and less intimidating than it sounds for those who have never tried it. By collecting all of your plant-based food scraps, used coffee grounds, egg shells, dryer sheets, vacuum residuals, hair and grass clippings and mixing these items with equal amounts of yard waste, such as twigs and dead leaves, you can create a natural, self-decomposing pile of fertilizer that can be reused in your garden.
\r\n\r\nThe trick is keeping the mixture moist in a garbage can or similar container in a shady area, preferably outside. Stir the mixture a couple of times per week, and within a few months, you’ll have 100% organic fertilizer filled with nutrients—not to mention a significantly less full weekly garbage bin.
\r\n\r\nLearn more:
\r\n\r\nHandling large amounts of waste in an eco-friendly manner requires a larger disposal solution. Junk removal companies can handle bulk disposal projects and are the easiest way to have a home cleaned out while having recyclables and donation-worthy items separated without having to do so on your own, but large junk removal projects can get costly due to the all-inclusive nature of their services.
\r\n\r\nSo, how can you get the best price for bulk waste pick-up services while also prioritizing the environment?
\r\n\r\nThis is where dumpster rental services come into play. As time goes on, more and more dumpsters rental companies are going green, taking notes from their junk removal service competitors and making efforts to responsibly dispose of waste rather than dumping everything they haul off to a landfill.
\r\n\r\nWhen calling to rent a dumpster, ask if the company offers any type of trash recycling or clean load sorting. A clean load simply means the dumpster is filled with the same type of material rather than a mixture of items, making it easier (and often cheaper) to haul the entire load to the appropriate recycling facility.
\r\n\r\nSorting facilities can handle clean loads much more efficiently, so try to fill each dumpster load with one type of material to increase the odds the material gets recycled rather than just emptied into the local landfill. Examples of this would be a dumpster clean loaded with only yard waste, concrete, cardboard, or scrap metal.
\r\n\r\nIf you're considering renting an eco-friendly dumpster or hiring a junk removal service to haul away your donations or recyclables, Hometown makes it easy to find locally-owned and operated service providers in your area.
\r\n\r\nWe publish licensed and insured disposal services across the U.S. to help consumers find the best service for the best price. You can read more about each company in your area, read verified reviews from real customers, and request multiple quotes, free of charge, to compare the level of customer service, availability, and charges you can expect from each provider.
\r\n\r\nOur single quote request form significantly eliminates the time it takes researching and requesting quotes from multiple companies. By providing your zip code and answering a few short questions about your disposal needs, you'll be able to request free quotes from local services near you.
\r\n\r\nContinue reading:
\r\n\r\nThe U.S. municipal landfill system is becoming greener, so that’s an encouraging step in the right direction. The garbage you can’t recycle, compost, or reuse can still be helpful to the environment at some landfills.
\r\n\r\nAccording to the EPA, there are currently 75 landfills across the country utilizing waste-to-energy (WTE) initiatives. These eco-friendly landfill facilities use various methods to extract energy from the waste sitting at the landfill. One method is capturing the methane gas naturally produced at landfills and turning it to a useful energy source.
\r\n\r\nThe EPA states WTE landfill facilities turn 28 million tons of trash into approximately 2,720 megawatts of power each year. The U.S. is definitely heading in the right direction as far as waste removal goes, but it’s still up to each individual person to do their own part in preserving our environment. These simple tips can help you get started.
\r\n\r\nLearn all about how to handle eco-friendly waste removal in a way that is not only better for the environment but also better for your wallet in some cases.
\r\n","changed":"2023-08-15T13:57:52+00:00"},{"id":"337b59bd-5c55-5206-806a-6469377a1b95","title":"Cardboard Recycling 101: What Homeowners and Business Owners Should Know","url":"/blog/cardboard-recycling-101","image":{"path":"/static/b612765e280e9a4093f3c1563ee081f9/cardboard-1.jpg","alt":"Pile of recyclable cardboard"},"video":null,"media_type":"image","tags":[{"id":"d7a82c6b-3d3b-5d72-ba59-4bdd492bf55f","name":"Cardboard Recycling","slug":"Cardboard-Recycling"},{"id":"39c3533a-c46f-509b-8fcc-19e935627151","name":"Recycling","slug":"Recycling"},{"id":"02a42cee-60f9-5dfd-858c-22ec36b1ce1e","name":"Dumpster Rental","slug":"Dumpster-Rental"},{"id":"61ca817b-0498-5abf-bbe7-cdf5935242bc","name":"Junk Removal","slug":"Junk-Removal"}],"content":"With over 90% of all products shipped in the US being cardboard boxes, it's no wonder why consumers and businesses are being asked now more than ever to recycle cardboard as often as possible.
\r\n\r\nLandfill \"real estate\" is precious and limited, and we are all sitting on a huge opportunity to reduce our contributions with plenty of recycling options at our fingertips.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nRecycling is the environmentally responsible thing to do, but there are rules you must follow in order to not contaminate a batch of recyclables.
\r\n
Not following these rules can lead to recyclables having to be tossed into a landfill, producing the exact opposite results you were trying for.
\r\n\r\nWe'll go over everything you need to know about cardboard recycling for homes and businesses so you can ensure your recycling efforts don't go to waste.
\r\n\r\nAs mentioned above, one of the more obvious benefits of recycling cardboard is conserving landfill space, but that is only the beginning of a long list of cardboard recycling benefits.
\r\n\r\nMany of us were taught in school that recycling cardboard and paper helps reduce the amount of trees that are cut down, but how many trees are we actually preserving?
\r\n\r\nFor every ton of cardboard that is recycled, 17 trees are preserved, which can absorb around 250 pounds of carbon dioxide from the air each year!
\r\n\r\nFor every ton (2,000 lbs) of cardboard that is recycled, we save roughly:
\r\n\r\nIf you're someone who is less concerned with the environment than you are the economy, there are plenty of economical benefits to recycling cardboard and other materials as well.
\r\n\r\nA new study by Eco-Cycle indicates that if the United States could transition to a 75% recycling rate by the year 2030, we would create an estimate 1-2 million new jobs!
\r\n\r\nThese job creations aren't your run-of-the-mill minimum wage jobs, either. The recycling industry offers their employees competitive wages and health benefits.
\r\n\r\nWith so many benefits to recycling, it's a wonder why anyone would choose not to take advantage of free recycling programs.
\r\n\r\nLearn more:
\r\n\r\nOne of the most important things to keep in mind when recycling cardboard is that it is crucial to keep all paper and cardboard products clean.
\r\n\r\nIn a mixed recycling bin where you throw aluminum, glass, plastic, paper, and cardboard, you're much more likely to get cross contamination from foods or liquids which can ruin an entire bale of recyclable cardboard.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nThe best recycling practice is to keep cardboard and paper separate from other types of recyclables so that they can remain clean and free of contaminants.
\r\n
It's also important to understand the different types of cardboard products we use and what they can sometimes be lined or mixed with.
\r\n\r\nWhile most cardboard and paperboard products can be recycled, there are some products that are lined with plastic film or coated with wax, and these items should be thrown away rather than recycled.
\r\n\r\nIt's not unusual for boxes that contain frozen items to be lined with wax or plastic to prevent them from getting soggy, so if you can't verify that your frozen boxes are recyclable, err on the side of caution and throw it away.
\r\n\r\nAnother important note to remember is that cardboard that has embellishments like foil, glitter, or velvet should also be thrown away rather than recycled.
\r\n\r\nThe best practices for recycling any type of material is to understand exactly what can and can't go in your bin, specifically in your area.
\r\n\r\nSome recycling facilities can handle certain products that others cannot.
\r\n\r\nFor example, most recycling centers can't recycle cardboard lined with plastic.
\r\n\r\nThere are, however, some recycling centers that have special machines that can separate this plastic from cardboard or paperboard.
\r\n\r\nAs a general rule, cardboard boxes with mailing labels or packing tape are okay to be tossed into your recycling, but there are some exceptions to this rule at certain facilities.
\r\n\r\nThat's why it's important to get a list of accepted material directly from your waste management company so that you aren't mistakingly contaminating the cardboard or other items you're trying to recycle because rules can vary from one community to the next.
\r\n\r\n![\"Cardboard](\"/sites/default/files/inline-images/cardboard-2.jpg\")
\r\nThere are many common mistakes well-intentioned people make when recycling cardboard.
\r\n\r\nOne of the most common is tossing in pizza boxes with grease stains.
\r\n\r\nWhile cardboard is a recyclable material, no paper products that are contaminated with food should be recycled.
\r\n\r\nIf the top half of your pizza box does not have any grease on it, feel free to separate that from the bottom half of your pizza box and put it into your recycling as long as you're sure it's clean.
\r\n\r\nAnother common mistake people make is not breaking down large cardboard boxes when placing them into their recycling bin.
\r\n\r\nMake sure to always break down cardboard boxes to preserve space not only in your personal bin, but in the recycling truck.
\r\n\r\nDepending on how large the box is, it may be necessary to cut your cardboard up into more manageable sized pieces.
\r\n\r\nCheck with your local facility to learn more.
\r\n\r\nIf your curbside trash service also offers recycling, having your recycling picked up at the end of your driveway is certainly the most convenient option.
\r\n\r\nFor those who live in areas where this isn't offered, however, there are plenty of other recycling options available.
\r\n\r\nIt's becoming more and more common for communities to offer drop-off recycling programs or community dumpsters at different drop-off locations for recyclables.
\r\n\r\nMichigan, for example, has a cardboard and paper recycling program called PaperGator where residents can deposit their recyclable paper products into dumpster containers at several designated drop-off locations.
\r\n\r\nIf you need help locating a community recycling program, visit Earth 911 to find recycling centers or programs near you. You can type in the specific type of material you'd like to recycle, as well as your zip code, and you'll be shown recycling solutions near you.
\r\n\r\nIf you're a business or contractor that has large amounts of cardboard to recycle that won't fit in your curbside collection, consider renting a dumpster for your recycling efforts.
\r\n\r\nOr, if you have a lot of cardboard to recycle but not enough to justify renting a dumpster, consider hiring a junk removal company to haul away your cardboard for you.
\r\n\r\nA junk removal company will be able to recycle all your cardboard products on your behalf without you having to lift a finger.
\r\n\r\nHometown makes it easy to find junk removal services and dumpster rentals for all types of disposals across the U.S., including cardboard recycling!
\r\n\r\nSearch your zip code, answer a few quick questions about your project needs, and get free quotes from qualified companies in your area.
\r\n\r\nLearn everything you need to know about cardboard recycling to ensure that your recycling efforts don't go to waste.
\r\n","changed":"2023-03-17T13:54:08+00:00"},{"id":"ca48a791-3cd3-55a7-b1bc-a4ff19cdbe4e","title":"How to Negotiate the Best Junk Removal Price","url":"/blog/negotiate-best-junk-removal-price","image":{"path":"/static/336e75b45712e904432eb0082f634ec9/militarydiscount.png","alt":"man looking at laptop while on the phone "},"video":null,"media_type":"image","tags":[{"id":"61ca817b-0498-5abf-bbe7-cdf5935242bc","name":"Junk Removal","slug":"Junk-Removal"},{"id":"58c950b5-f4ae-5829-8cae-bf1a2ddaac1c","name":"Junk Removal Costs","slug":"Junk-Removal-Costs"}],"content":"There are several different factors that affect the cost of junk removal services, with the most impactful being the cost of living in your area, what type of items you need removed, how much space your items take up in the company's truck or trailer, as well as any other special circumstances that would require extra care and time to complete the job.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nJunk removal services are incredibly helpful when you're in the middle of a stressful move, trying to get a rental unit ready for the next tenant, or have a loved one's estate to clear out.
\r\n
At Hometown, we understand how important it is to get these services at a price that is competitive and affordable, so we've compiled some tips to help you negotiate the best junk removal price.
\r\n\r\n![\"How](\"/sites/default/files/inline-images/negotiate-junk-removal-price-info1.png\")
\r\nJunk removal companies that only serve one general area tend to have more availability and less wait times than their larger competitors that service the entire state or region.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nLocal services also tend to give all of their customers equal priority while larger chains tend to cater to large contractors who are their bread and butter.
\r\n
It's not uncommon to speak with the owner of the company when you contact locally-owned junk removal companies, and if you're speaking directly with the boss, you will likely have more negotiating power versus speaking with one of many employees at a call center.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nLike we mentioned, the cost of junk removal services are based on many different factors that vary from one job to the next.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nThe amount of time it takes a junk removal crew to complete your job plays a significant role in the final price you will pay, which is why offering contactless pickup could work in your favor.
\r\n
Setting your items set at the end of your driveway or on your porch creates a faster, easier removal process compared to having the junk removal crew come in and out of your house, up and down flights of stairs, while removing different items from different areas of the property.
\r\n\r\nNot all junk removal companies will give you a discount for doing this, but offering to do this in exchange for a small discount isn't unheard of and can be appreciated by busy companies.
\r\n\r\nLearn more:
\r\n\r\nWhile there is always a need for junk removal services year round, some months/season tend to be busier than others.
\r\n\r\nIf you live in climate with all four seasons, waiting until the colder months when there are less home projects and yard work could make your waste hauling services cheaper.
\r\n\r\nWarmer climates tend to have their slow season throughout the summer months during their peak temperatures.
\r\n\r\nKnowing when the slow season is in your are could give you more negotiating power if your project isn't on a strict schedule.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nIf applicable, military, veteran, student, and senior discounts are all common small discount programs that are often honored by smaller, locally-owned companies.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nIt's also not unusual for companies to run promotions across different platforms online, so doing a quick Google search for promo codes or simply asking the junk removal company you speak with if they have any current promotions is never a bad idea.
\r\n
As the saying goes, \"You'll never know unless you ask.\"
\r\n\r\nKeep reading:
\r\n\r\nGetting multiple quotes from different junk removal companies will not only help you understand what a competitive price is in your area, but you can use one company's quote as leverage when speaking with their competitors.
\r\n\r\nSome companies may price-match, while others may explain why their price is a more legitimate price for the market.
\r\n\r\nGetting a good price is important, but making sure that you only hire licensed and insured junk removal companies is worth a little more up front in order to protect yourself from any legal headaches down the road.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nWhen you're ready to find local junk removal companies in your area, Hometown can help.
\r\n
By providing your zip code and answer a few short questions about your project, you'll be shown a list of qualified junk removal companies in your area.
\r\n\r\nWe make it fast and simple to request free quotes from multiple junk removal or dumpster rental companies at once, all at no cost to you.
\r\n\r\nWe only publish verified reviews from legitimate customers to help you make the most informed decision, so you never have to worry about inaccurate reviews being left by competitors or the companies themselves.
\r\n\r\nKeep reading:
\r\n\r\nThe cost of junk removal services are based on a wide range of different factors. Read about different strategies that can help you negotiate the best junk removal price near you.
\r\n","changed":"2022-06-17T18:24:10+00:00"},{"id":"e445fbd3-2c8d-59ac-8e7b-9ddc2c0aeaa2","title":"DIY Carpet Removal Tips: How to Save Money and Get the Job Done Right","url":"/blog/diy-carpet-removal-tips","image":{"path":"/static/1f191d4164ecaf8a4ec0055760634536/rolls-of-removed-carpet.jpg","alt":"rolls of removed carpet"},"video":null,"media_type":"image","tags":[{"id":"452ceba2-add3-5353-9ce8-638ceada914a","name":"Carpet Removal","slug":"Carpet-Removal"},{"id":"61ca817b-0498-5abf-bbe7-cdf5935242bc","name":"Junk Removal","slug":"Junk-Removal"},{"id":"02a42cee-60f9-5dfd-858c-22ec36b1ce1e","name":"Dumpster Rental","slug":"Dumpster-Rental"}],"content":"Carpet removal might not be the most glamorous home improvement project, but it's a task that many homeowners will need to tackle at some point.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nWhether you're replacing old carpet with new flooring or simply want to refresh your space, removing carpet yourself can save you a significant amount of money. However, like any DIY project, it's important to approach it with the right knowledge and know when to hire the pros instead.
\r\n
In this article, we'll explore DIY carpet removal, when hiring a professional is best, and how carpet removal works, which will help you save money in the long run and ensure you get the job done right.
\r\n\r\nBefore diving into the tips, it's essential to understand why you might want to remove carpet yourself rather than hiring a professional. There are several compelling reasons:
\r\n\r\nNow, let's delve into the DIY carpet removal process and various tips to ensure you can handle the task effectively...
\r\n\r\nBefore you start tearing up your carpet, make sure you have the following tools and supplies ready:
\r\n\r\nHaving the right tools on hand will make the process smoother and safer.
\r\n\r\nClear the room of all furniture and objects that could obstruct your work. This includes smaller items like lamps, decorations, and smaller pieces of furniture. For larger items, like sofas and beds, you may need to disassemble them or move them to another room.
\r\n\r\nBegin by using your utility knife to cut away the carpet along one edge of the room. Carefully make an incision near the wall, then use your pliers to grab a corner of the carpet and pull it up. Once you have a corner lifted, you can begin to peel the carpet away from the tack strips along the walls.
\r\n\r\nTack strips are narrow wooden strips with small, sharp nails that hold the carpet in place. Carefully use your pry bar or crowbar to detach the carpet from these strips. Be cautious not to damage the subfloor in the process.
\r\n\r\nAs you remove the carpet from the tack strips, roll it up tightly to make it easier to handle. If your carpet is in good condition, you might be able to donate or recycle it. Otherwise, dispose of it properly according to your local regulations.
\r\n\r\nUnderneath the carpet, you'll typically find a carpet pad. This is often held in place with adhesive or staples. Use your utility knife to cut and remove the pad in sections. Be careful when handling the pad, as it can be heavy and may contain dust or allergens.
\r\n\r\nOnce you've removed the carpet and pad, it's essential to clean and inspect the subfloor. Remove any leftover staples, nails, or adhesive residue. Make any necessary repairs to ensure a smooth and even surface for your new flooring.
\r\n\r\nDispose of all carpet, padding, and other materials in accordance with your local waste disposal regulations. Some materials may be recyclable, so check with your local recycling center for guidance.
\r\n\r\nIf you want to handle all the work yourself, renting a dumpster is a great option for disposing of the unwanted carpet. With a temporary roll-off dumpster, you'll be able to load the carpet into the dumpster yourself, go at your own pace, and get rid of other unwanted junk you have lying around your house in the process.
\r\n\r\nIf you'd rather have someone else handle the physical removing of your carpet as well as the proper disposal, professional junk removal services are likely the best option. Junk removal services typically cost more than renting a dumpster but that cost gains you added convenience, efficiency, and safety.
\r\n\r\nLearn more:
\r\n\r\nIn some cases, you may encounter challenges during the carpet removal process, such as extremely stubborn adhesive or damaged subflooring. If you're uncomfortable tackling these issues on your own, it's wise to consult a professional to avoid potential complications.
\r\n\r\nRemoving carpet yourself can be a rewarding DIY project that saves you money and allows you to customize your home's flooring. However, it's important to ensure that the job is done right and that your room is ready for whatever flooring option you choose to install.
\r\n\r\nIf you do the work yourself, but you do it wrong, you'll end up paying more in the long run. Remember to take your time, prioritize safety, and be prepared for any unexpected challenges that may arise during the process. With the right tools and a little patience, you can transform your space and enjoy the satisfaction of a job well done.
\r\n\r\nWith that said, DIY isn't the only option. In fact, in many cases, hiring a professional is the smarter and more cost-effective choice.
\r\n\r\n![\"peeled](\"/sites/default/files/inline-images/carpet-removal.jpg\")
\r\nThe easiest way to get rid of old carpeting is to hire a junk removal company to come and haul it away or to assist with the total removal.
\r\n\r\nJunk removal companies are committed to donating or recycling as much as possible, with carpet being no exception. To confirm your carpet is going to the right place, you can confirm with the companies you speak to how they plan to dispose of your old carpet. Donating and recycling is typically less expensive than disposing of something at a landfill, so if your carpet is salvageable, you could save a little bit of money by having it taken to the nearest donation center, like a Habitat for Humanity ReStore, or recycling facility.
\r\n\r\nCarpet removal via junk removal services is easy:
\r\n\r\nBe sure you hire the right person to handle your carpet removal project with the help of Hometown.
\r\n\r\nEasily request quotes from multiple pros in your area, read verified customer reviews, and get answers to common carpet removal questions, all from one place so you can get your project done faster and for less money.
\r\n\r\nKeep reading:
\r\n\r\nExplore DIY carpet removal, when hiring a professional is best, and how carpet removal works, which will help you save money in the long run and ensure you get the job done right.
\r\n","changed":"2023-10-10T20:40:48+00:00"},{"id":"ebd00ab6-8f28-5445-b640-1780f10831d3","title":"Benefits of Recycling Junk vs Throwing It Away","url":"/blog/benefits-of-recycling-junk-vs-throwing-it-away","image":{"path":"/static/414a81864d2e2c5d0968e8ca5f8504d1/recycle.png","alt":"Recycle your junk to save money on disposal costs"},"video":null,"media_type":"image","tags":[{"id":"61ca817b-0498-5abf-bbe7-cdf5935242bc","name":"Junk Removal","slug":"Junk-Removal"},{"id":"39c3533a-c46f-509b-8fcc-19e935627151","name":"Recycling","slug":"Recycling"},{"id":"58c950b5-f4ae-5829-8cae-bf1a2ddaac1c","name":"Junk Removal Costs","slug":"Junk-Removal-Costs"},{"id":"49c52146-4c5a-5ad3-a556-f14363834202","name":"Scrap Metal Recycling","slug":"Scrap-Metal-Recycling"}],"content":"It's common knowledge that recycling is beneficial for the environment.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nRecycling reduces the amount of waste that ends up in landfills, saves energy, and prevents pollution, just to name a few.
\r\n
There are many other benefits to recycling beyond environmental ones that are often overlooked that we'll go over in this article.
\r\n\r\n![\"Overlooked](\"/sites/default/files/inline-images/benefits-of-recycling-infographic_0.png\")
\r\nRecycling makes a direct impact on your local economy by creating more jobs in the area.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nThrowing your unwanted junk out creates 6-7 jobs at best, while recycling can help create up to 30 jobs.
\r\n
According to the US Recycling Economic Information Study, the US Recycling Industry employs around 1.25 million people while the US Solid Waste Management industry employs around 0.25 million.
\r\n\r\nRecycling is more labor-intensive than incineration or landfill disposal, which explains why so many more jobs are created from the recycling industry.
\r\n\r\nAccording to Ecocycle, recycling creates around of 9x more jobs than traditional disposal methods, and in some areas can create as many as 30x more jobs.
\r\n\r\nIf the idea of contributing less trash to our rapidly decreasing landfill space isn't enough to begin recycling, maybe knowing the amount of jobs it could create in your area is.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nOne of the main benefits of recycling is preserving natural resources.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nWhile preserving resources is beneficial for the environment, it's also beneficial for the cost of raw materials.
\r\n
The cost of aluminum, for example, would be significantly more expensive if it wasn't a commonly recycled material.
\r\n\r\nOther materials like copper, iron, wood, glass, paper, plastic, and steel can also be recycled to help keep costs down.
\r\n\r\nIt's also worth mentioning that landfill space is a precious resource within itself.
\r\n\r\nThe less landfill space there is, the more expensive waste disposal costs will be, so recycling helps to preserve this quickly depleting landfill space.
\r\n\r\nLearn more:
\r\n\r\nIf you are lucky enough to live in an area that provides a free recycling program, you could save significantly on your monthly municipal waste bill.
\r\n\r\nCommitting to recycling the estimated 75% of recyclable household waste would mean a 75% decrease in the amount of garbage you'll need your waste program to pick up.
\r\n\r\nEven if you only recycle 50% of your trash, that's still a significant decrease in yearly disposal costs.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n![\"set](\"/sites/default/files/inline-images/children-recycling.png\")
\r\nIf you have a child, niece, nephew, younger sibling, or other children in your life that you are a role model for, recycling is a great example to set for them.
\r\n\r\nIf you think that the effort recycling requires isn't worth it because it won't impact you directly, think of the impact it will make for future generations.
\r\n\r\nThe cost that future generations will have to pay for basic resources will be much higher than previous generations.
\r\n\r\nTeaching them how to recycle and reuse will help shape their habits for a lifetime.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nIf you don't have a free recycling pickup program, it's highly likely that there is a recycling drop-off center within driving distance.
\r\n\r\nDoing a quick online search for free recycling centers will show you which options are offered in your area.
\r\n\r\nIf you have gently used household items or clothing, consider donating them to a local charitable organization.
\r\n\r\nPlaces like Goodwill or The Salvation Army have drop boxes and drop-off locations where you can unload your unwanted items.
\r\n\r\nListing free items on Facebook Marketplace or Craigslist is also a great way to have someone come pick up your used items.
\r\n\r\nIf you have junk to get rid of but don't have the time or transportation to haul it yourself, hiring a junk removal company that recycles on your behalf can be a stress-free solution.
\r\n\r\nYou can find locally-owned junk removal companies in your area by using Hometown.
\r\n\r\nRead real reviews and request quotes from as many companies as you'd like for free.
\r\n\r\nWe recommend getting at least 3 different quotes so that you can compare pricing and customer service.
\r\n\r\nContinue reading:
\r\n\r\nRecycling reduces the amount of waste that ends up in landfills, saves energy, and prevents pollution. Learn about the many other benefits of recycling that are often overlooked.
\r\n","changed":"2023-01-19T17:16:11+00:00"}],"populars":[{"state":"Alaska","place":"Anchorage, AK","code":"dumpster-rental","code_name":"Dumpster Rental","url":"Alaska/Anchorage-AK-dumpsters.html","hub":true,"hubs":true,"type":"Hub01"},{"state":"Alaska","place":"Anchorage, AK","code":"junk-removal","code_name":"Junk Removal","url":"alaska/junk-removal-anchorage-ak","hub":true,"hubs":true,"type":"Hub01"},{"state":"Alaska","place":"Anchorage, AK","code":"commercial-waste-management","code_name":"Commercial Waste Management","url":"alaska/commercial-waste-management-anchorage-ak","hub":true,"hubs":true,"type":"Hub01"}],"tips":[{"name":"Removing Unwanted Junk","body":"It's common for companies to charge a minimum of $75 to $100 for any removal, no matter how minimal it may be. If you have an entire house worth of debris, then you can expect to pay upwards of $500 to $1,000, though this number can be much higher in a hoarding situation or other large volume cleanup project.
\r\n\r\nSome companies quote a price based on the expected volume of the debris in the truck, e.g., a full truckload, 1/2 truckload, or 1/4 truckload, while others quote by the hour.
\r\n\r\nLearn more: Junk Removal Costs
\r\n\r\nThere are a number of factors that can influence the cost of junk removal:
\r\n\r\nThe cost to haul junk varies by location. Customers in metropolitan areas, like New York City or Los Angeles, can expect to pay more for junk removal than those in less populated areas would for the same size project.
\r\n\r\nLearn More: The Basics of Junk Removal Service
\r\n\r\nThe amount of junk that needs to be removed plays a big role, too. For example, large cleanups will require a bigger truck or container with a large loading capacity, as well as more labor hours to complete the job. The same is true for complex cleanups, like having to carry items down multiple flights of stairs or removing an old heavy piano that needs to be disassembled in order to remove it safely, or other situations that require more time and/or manpower.
\r\n\r\nCertain types of waste, junk, and debris cost more to dispose of than others. For example, hazardous materials cost more due to environmental laws, safety concerns, and disposal requirements.
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