Home renovations can breathe new life into your living spaces, enhancing comfort and aesthetics.
\r\n\r\nAmong the many decisions you'll make during a renovation, one often overlooked but transformative step is carpet removal. Beneath those old, worn-out carpets may lie hidden potential for your home's interior.
\r\n\r\nIn this article, we explore the benefits of carpet removal for home renovations, how professional carpet removal can streamline your project, and how to be sure you hire the best company for the job.
\r\n\r\n![\"carpet](\"/sites/default/files/inline-images/carpet-removal-for-home-renovations-infographic.jpg\")
\r\nProfessional carpet removal can streamline a renovation project in several ways, making the entire process more efficient and effective by leveraging expertise and the proper equipment. While there is a cost associated with professional removal, the benefits in terms of time savings, quality, and overall project efficiency often outweigh the expense.
\r\n\r\nHere are the key ways in which professional carpet removal contributes to a smoother renovation project...
\r\n\r\nProfessional carpet removal teams have the experience and expertise to efficiently remove carpeting and underlying materials. They know how to handle various types of carpeting, including glued-down carpets, without causing damage to the subfloor.
\r\n\r\nProfessionals' expertise and manpower allow them to work efficiently and remove carpet significantly faster than the average homeowner. They can remove large areas of carpet quickly and without unnecessary delays, reducing the overall project time.
\r\n\r\nProfessionals use the appropriate tools and equipment for the job, ensuring safe and efficient removal. This includes tools like carpet cutters, power stretchers, and floor scrapers, which may not be readily available to homeowners.
\r\n\r\nCarpet removal professionals have access to these specialized tools, making the removal process faster and more precise without the need of purchasing safety gear and other equipment.
\r\n\r\nProfessional carpet removal teams work efficiently, often completing the removal process faster than if it were done by inexperienced individuals. This minimizes the downtime in the renovation project, allowing other work to proceed more quickly.
\r\n\r\nDIY carpet removal can disrupt the flow of a renovation project, as it typically takes longer, is less safe, and produces more noise. Professionals work quickly and quietly, minimizing interference with your day-to-day life if living in your home during the renovation.
\r\n\r\nProfessionals typically use dust containment measures to keep the removal area clean and minimize the spread of dust and debris, too, which helps maintain a cleaner and more organized work environment and less dust and allergens in other areas of your home.
\r\n\r\nDIY carpet removal also involves multiple trips to disposal sites, costing valuable time and money in gas, and risking your car by driving it into a landfill yourself. Professionals handle disposal for you, reducing interruptions and keeping the project on track.
\r\n\r\nCarpet removal generates a significant amount of waste. Professionals can handle the proper disposal of old carpeting and padding, ensuring that it is recycled or disposed of in accordance with local regulations.
\r\n\r\nJunk removal companies are experts at carpet removal and also prioritize recycling or donating items before taking them to a landfill. This benefits the environment by keeping items out of the landfill, and benefits you by saving on disposal fees.
\r\n\r\nProfessional carpet removal includes cleaning and preparing the subfloor in some cases, depending on the company you hire. A well-prepared subfloor is essential for ensuring that the new flooring adheres properly and provides a smooth finish. Or, if you're restoring original floors underneath the carpet, this will be the next step necessary.
\r\n\r\nWhile it may seem counterintuitive, hiring professionals for carpet removal can actually save money in the long run. They work efficiently, reducing labor costs, and their expertise helps prevent damage that could lead to expensive repairs.
\r\n\r\nProfessionals have access to specialized tools and equipment designed for carpet removal. These tools not only make the process faster but also reduce the risk of damage to the subfloor, saving on potential repair costs.
\r\n\r\nDIY carpet removal attempts can lead to costly mistakes, such as damaging the subfloor, leaving behind hidden debris, or creating disposal issues. Professionals have the expertise to avoid these pitfalls.
\r\n\r\nProfessional carpet removal results in a clean, damage-free subfloor. This sets the stage for a successful installation of new flooring, ensuring a high-quality finish.
\r\n\r\nProfessional removal teams take pride in their work and ensure that the job is done to a high standard. This reduces the likelihood of mistakes or oversights that could lead to costly and inconvenient rework or corrections.
\r\n\r\nProfessionals are often well-versed in environmentally responsible disposal practices. Responsible carpet removal companies prioritize waste diversion by recycling or reusing materials whenever possible.
\r\n\r\nThey can recycle carpeting materials and dispose of waste in an eco-friendly manner, reducing the project's environmental impact. Old carpets and padding can often be recycled into new products, reducing the demand for virgin materials and conserving resources.
\r\n\r\nSome carpets and adhesives may contain hazardous materials, such as lead, asbestos, or volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Professionals are trained in handling these materials safely, preventing their release into the environment.
\r\n\r\nAs previously mentioned, junk removal companies divert old carpeting and padding from landfills through recycling or other methods of responsible disposal whenever possible. This helps reduce the burden on landfill space and minimizes the release of harmful chemicals associated with decomposing carpet materials.
\r\n\r\nDIY carpet removal can be time-consuming, especially if you lack experience. Professionals can complete the job much more quickly, allowing other renovation tasks to proceed on schedule.
\r\n\r\nProfessional removal teams often consist of multiple workers who collaborate efficiently. They can divide tasks, coordinate efforts, and work in parallel, which significantly speeds up the removal process.
\r\n\r\nDIY carpet removal can be physically demanding and mentally taxing. The stress and frustration of dealing with a challenging removal process can negatively impact the overall experience of the renovation project. Hiring professionals eliminates the need for homeowners to exert themselves, reducing the risk of injury and burnout.
\r\n\r\nDIYers may also not have access to the appropriate tools for carpet removal, leading to inefficient and potentially unsafe removal methods. Inadequate tools can also increase the risk of damaging the subfloor or injuring yourself.
\r\n\r\nKeep reading:
\r\n\r\nUnderneath carpets, you might discover beautiful hardwood floors, classic tiles, or high-quality laminate that can become the focal point of your renovated space. These original surfaces can add character, charm, and value to your home. They often reflect the architectural style and craftsmanship of the era in which the house was built, contributing to the overall uniqueness and authenticity of the property.
\r\n\r\nHomes with well-preserved or restored original floors can have higher resale value and appeal to buyers who appreciate historical features. Original floors can be seen as a selling point, especially in older or period homes.
\r\n\r\nCarpets tend to trap allergens such as dust mites, pet dander, pollen, and mold spores. Over time, these allergens accumulate in the carpet fibers. When people walk on the carpet or vacuum it, these allergens can become airborne, leading to respiratory issues for sensitive individuals.
\r\n\r\nThe warmer, more humid environment that carpets provide make it easier for dust mites to thrive, too. Removing carpets can reduce dust mite populations and can improve indoor air quality, making your home a healthier environment for you and your family.
\r\n\r\nOnce the carpet is gone, you have the freedom to restore what's underneath or choose from a wider range of flooring options, like hardwood and tile to eco-friendly choices like bamboo or cork. This flexibility allows you to align your flooring with your design vision.
\r\n\r\nHard flooring materials like hardwood, tile, or laminate offer diverse textures that can add depth and interest to your design. You can select materials with smooth, distressed, or patterned textures to achieve the desired aesthetic.
\r\n\r\nWith carpet gone, you'll also have the freedom to experiment with different wall colors and patterns. You can choose colors that complement your new flooring, creating a harmonious and visually appealing space.
\r\n\r\nOver time, carpets can trap and accumulate dirt, dust, allergens, and stains. Removing carpets eliminates these hidden contaminants, making it easier to maintain a clean and healthy indoor environment. This means less time spent on upkeep and more time enjoying your renovated space.
\r\n\r\nHard flooring surfaces, such as hardwood, tile, or laminate, are also typically easier to clean than carpets. They can be swept, mopped, or vacuumed more efficiently, reducing the time and effort required for routine cleaning.
\r\n\r\nCarpets are also more susceptible to staining than hard flooring surfaces, especially in high-traffic areas. Removing carpets eliminates the risk of permanent stains and simplifies the cleaning process, as spills can be quickly wiped up on hard flooring surfaces.
\r\n\r\nHard floors are constructed from durable materials such as hardwood, laminate, tile, vinyl, concrete, or stone. These materials are inherently resistant to wear and tear compared to the textile fibers used in carpets.
\r\n\r\nAs such, hard surface flooring tends to be more durable and longer-lasting than carpet, reducing the need for frequent replacements, which can save you money in the long run. Carpets in higher traffic areas need replacement every 10-15 years—or sooner if damaged—while well-maintained hard floors can last for decades.
\r\n\r\nCarpet removal is a transformative step in home renovations that can uncover hidden potential and set the stage for a fresh, inviting living space.
\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\nRead more:
\r\n\r\nExplore the benefits of carpet removal for home renovations, how professional carpet removal can streamline your project, and how to be sure you hire the best company for the job.
\r\n","changed":"2023-09-07T02:07:11+00:00"},{"id":"d8c2fc02-ef5d-53aa-b855-8ce7aea968ad","title":"4 Ways to Save on Junk Removal Costs","url":"/blog/4-ways-to-save-on-junk-removal-costs","image":{"path":"/static/1db059462f6685a7aa215c747008c21a/save-on-junk-removal-1.jpg","alt":"woman holding her credit card and looking at computer"},"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":"Junk removal services cost anywhere from $75 up to $5,000 or more depending on the project.
\r\n\r\nThere are many factors that affect the cost of junk removal services, including:
\r\n\r\nBecause junk removal prices can vary so much, we've compiled a list of our 4 biggest tips for ensuring you get the best price for your junk removal project.
\r\n\r\n![\"Four](\"/sites/default/files/inline-images/4-ways-to-save-on-junk-removal-infographic2.png\")
\r\nThis is the most important tip for saving money on junk removal services because junk removal prices can vary by hundreds of dollars between different companies in the same town.
\r\n\r\nFor example, one company may quote $500 for a garage cleanout, while another company offers to complete the job for $300.
\r\n\r\nBy going with the first company you contact, you may be missing out on getting a better deal with a competing company.
\r\n\r\nWe recommend getting at least 2-3 estimates for junk removal projects before booking the service.
\r\n\r\nFor larger and more expensive jobs, it may be worth getting 4-5 quotes prior to selecting a junk removal company.
\r\n\r\nThe difference can literally lead to hundreds of dollars in savings.
\r\n\r\nKeep reading:
\r\n\r\nDepending on the type of cleanup, you may be able to reduce costs by having the junk ready to load in the driveway or curbside before the junk removal company shows up.
\r\n\r\nBy making the job quicker, it may help reduce labor costs.
\r\n\r\nMany junk removal companies determine rates based on the volume of junk, so putting it all in an easily accessible area, like in your driveway or curbside, may not generate any savings for you, but it’s worth mentioning over the phone when booking the service to see if you can get a better rate by making the junk more accessible to their crew. It never hurts to ask.
\r\n\r\nRead on:
\r\n\r\nItems in usable or good working condition can be donated or given away rather than junked.
\r\n\r\nSome examples include:
\r\n\r\nSome charitable organizations, such as Salvation Army, may offer to pick up gently used items from your location for free.\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n
A fair number of junk removal companies offer special rates for seniors, veterans, or other segments of the population. There also may be other holiday discounts or coupons as part of a marketing campaign.
\r\n\r\nCheck the junk removal company’s website, as well as their Facebook page and other social accounts, to see if there are any current discounts available. Also be sure to ask when calling to get information or book their services.
\r\n\r\nDiscounts in these categories can be significant. It’s not unusual to see a 10% or even 20% discount of seniors or veterans. A 10% discount on a $500 job, for example, knocks $50 off the top and that’s a good chunk of change.
\r\n\r\nHometown makes it easy for customers to find junk removal companies in their area.
\r\n
\r\nBrowse junk removal companies based on your zip code, read customer reviews for each company, and request quotes from multiple dumpster rental and junk removal providers to ensure you pay a fair price for great services.
Find out more:
\r\n\r\nUse our 4 biggest tips to get the best price on your junk removal service. You can save tens or even hundreds of dollars on jobs ranging from garage cleanouts to commercial building cleanout projects.
\r\n","changed":"2022-06-16T18:22:49+00:00"},{"id":"bc80414f-8abd-5dc5-84c4-60dbe6a19e54","title":"Debris Removal: The Complete Guide to Getting Rid of Anything","url":"/blog/debris-removal-the-complete-guide-to-getting-rid-of-anything","image":{"path":"/static/bd2804301ae2c375ac6dbf68d306b1f9/debris-removal-guide.jpg","alt":"close-up view of concrete in a dumpster"},"video":null,"media_type":"image","tags":[{"id":"04cc94ec-8031-599d-b367-22042ec698df","name":"Construction Debris Removal","slug":"Construction-Debris-Removal"},{"id":"3274bb7f-9541-5ca1-b9b4-ed1c88a96480","name":"Rock Brick Dirt Dumpsters","slug":"Rock-Brick-Dirt-Dumpsters"},{"id":"61ca817b-0498-5abf-bbe7-cdf5935242bc","name":"Junk Removal","slug":"Junk-Removal"},{"id":"02a42cee-60f9-5dfd-858c-22ec36b1ce1e","name":"Dumpster Rental","slug":"Dumpster-Rental"},{"id":"04fd2ebe-e793-5a68-9f65-b5be6a2552ea","name":"Household Junk Dumpsters","slug":"Household-Junk-Dumpsters"},{"id":"d1824a81-ae42-587c-9dd3-2efa674e423f","name":"Construction Dumpsters","slug":"Construction-Dumpsters"}],"content":"What’s the best way to get rid of _______? Not all wastes are destined for the trash can. If you have large amounts of debris or you have items that are banned by your local waste hauler, you need to find the right disposal option. In this debris removal guide, we’ll take a look at various types of waste, debris, and junk as well as the best ways to dispose of them.
\r\n\r\n\r\n![\"debris](\"/sites/default/files/inline-images/debris-removal-methods-infographic.png\")
\r\nRecycling or reusing debris is the best possible option because it's great for the environment and your wallet. According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Americans only recycle about 1/4 of a potential 267.8 million tons each year. Always recycle, reuse, or donate materials when you can, but if this is not an option, it's time to start considering the next disposal options.
\r\n\r\nKeep reading:
\r\n\r\nDumpsters come in a wide range of sizes, from 3 cubic yard dumpster bags to full-size 40 cubic yard construction dumpsters. Dumpsters are an ideal solution for remodeling projects, house cleanouts, demolition, yard waste disposal, roofing, construction, and recycling in bulk. Ranging in cost from $250-$550 on average, dumpsters are an affordable way to get rid of all types of debris. Only place approved items in your dumpster, and avoid putting any prohibited or hazardous items inside, or you can expect to be charged an additional fee.
\r\n\r\nRead on:
\r\n\r\nJunk removal is a great disposal option for household junk, large pieces of furniture, and other tough-to-dispose-of or bulky waste. Junk removal is the most convenient option, as they handle the removal and disposal for you, whether it be hauling the junk to a local donation center, recycling it, or hauling it to the nearest landfill as a last resort. Due to the all-inclusive level of service, junk removal can become costly for larger cleanups, so it’s something to consider when choosing whether you should rent a dumpster or hire a junk removal service.
\r\n\r\nLearn more:
\r\n\r\nIf you have a truck and/or trailer, hauling the debris yourself to a local landfill may be an option. The average cost to haul waste yourself is less than the average cost to rent a roll-off dumpster, but the trade-off is it's less convenient and takes longer. The time it takes you to drive and drop off the debris at the nearest landfill can be substantial depending on your location. Also, if you need to dispose of hazardous materials, it will require a permit to haul, so be sure to research the laws in your area regarding the types of waste you are allowed to haul and the types of debris accepted at local landfills. (Some accept only C&D debris and not household trash). Household hazardous waste (HHW) facilities safely process and recycle potentially toxic wastes, such as e-waste, household cleaners, paint, chemicals, medicines, and liquids. Some communities host HHW events on an annual or biannual basis, or you can find your nearest HHW drop-off location at Earth911.com.
\r\n\r\nFind out more: Cost of Hauling Waste Yourself vs Renting a Dumpster
\r\n\r\n![\"Household](\"/sites/default/files/migrate_images/household-trash-and-garbage-disposal.jpg\")
\r\nThe waste and junk disposal methods discussed above are not always an option for everyone in every situation. Below, we'll discuss the most common types of waste and debris and the ideal ways to dispose of each type properly.
\r\n\r\nRead on:
\r\n\r\nExamples: household garbage, old furniture, broken toys, packaging materials
\r\n\r\nThis category of waste includes anything you’d typically put in your waste bin. Generally, this category of waste is taken care of via your waste hauler’s curbside collection service. However, there are multiple situations that require additional means, like hoarding situations, foreclosure cleanups, moving, and special events that generate a lot of trash. When you have more than your curbside roll cart can handle, a roll-off container works great for bulk amounts of household trash.
\r\n\r\nAlternatively, hiring a junk removal company to pick up the trash for you is a convenient disposal method, too, and it may be a more cost-effective option for smaller jobs (less than a few cubic yards of waste). You could also haul these wastes to the landfill yourself if you live within close proximity of one. Disposal of appliances containing Freon, paints, liquids, lead-acid batteries, fluorescent light bulbs, and other household hazardous wastes (HHWs) require special handling. These wastes shouldn’t be mixed in with your household garbage. Contact your city’s solid waste department to find the nearest HHW facility, or visit the city’s website for more information.
\r\n\r\nExamples: concrete, shingles, lumber, carpeting, flooring, siding, metal, renovation debris
\r\n\r\nResidential and commercial construction or demolition projects typically require the use of a dumpster, though hiring a junk removal company or driving the debris to the landfill yourself may be an option if there is a relatively small amount of debris. Some U.S. cities require C&D debris to be dropped off at dedicated construction and demolition landfill facilities where it is separated and recycled.
\r\n\r\nConcrete and asphalt are both very heavy, dense debris that are best disposed of in a roll-off dumpster. Most dumpster rental companies require concrete to be separated from other wastes, and it must be \"clean loaded\" in a smaller container, such as a 10 yard bin, to ensure it does not become too heavy of a load for the roll-off truck to handle.
\r\n\r\nThis is another heavy debris, so shingles are generally loaded in a separate dumpster and not in mixed loads. Shingles are recycled in most municipalities.
\r\n\r\nWood has a potential to be reused if salvaged properly. Reclaiming wood and selling or donating it is one way to cut down on disposal costs for a project.
\r\n\r\nA junk removal company offers the most convenient disposal solution for carpet disposal. Renting a dumpster or having your waste hauler pick it up are also valid options. Many waste haulers require the carpeting to be cut down to a specified length, like 4 ft. lengths, so that may add to the inconvenience of going this route.
\r\n\r\nFlooring material is salvageable in many cases. This would, again, help cut down on disposal costs. If reclaiming the wood isn’t an option, other cost-effective solutions include renting a roll-off or hiring a junk removal company to pick it up.
\r\n\r\nCertain types of siding, such as cedar, are highly desirable, and people will often take it off your hands. Simply posting a listing on Craigslist is an easy way to accomplish getting rid of cedar or wood siding while also cutting down on disposal costs. Vinyl siding is typically disposed of in a dumpster or picked up by a junk removal company. A dumpster is generally the more cost-effective option for a whole-house siding replacement project.
\r\n\r\nExamples: cabinets, tubs, sinks, toilets, countertops, floors
\r\n\r\nMuch of this material can be reclaimed. Other materials can be disposed of in a roll-off container or by a junk removal service. Most waste haulers do not accept renovation debris via curbside service, though some will pick it up for an additional fee.
\r\n\r\nBulk amounts of steel, aluminum, copper, and other metals should be recycled, as metal is a valuable commodity. You can eliminate disposal costs and make a few bucks by dropping off metal scraps at a local scrap yard. If you cannot haul the metals yourself, some metal recyclers may be able to pick it up on-site, or you can post an ad on Craigslist for free pick-up.
\r\n\r\nExamples: tree limbs, bush trimmings, grass clippings
\r\n\r\nBeing that it’s an organic waste, yard debris is best disposed of by composting, but dumpsters and junk removal companies are good options, too, as dumpster companies and junk removal service providers will drop off the yard wastes at the proper facility.
\r\n\r\nNote: Most waste haulers don’t allow yard debris mixed in with general waste.
\r\n\r\nHeavy yard wastes, like downed trees/logs, are best handled by professionals who have the right equipment to safely load and haul away such debris. Most junk removal companies have the right equipment to take on this type of project.
\r\n\r\nConsider starting a compost pile if you have the space to do so. Composting is an easy and inexpensive disposal option for yard debris, plus it produces nutrient-rich compost ideal for farming, landscaping, and flower gardens.
\r\n\r\nBe sure you know the laws regarding yard waste disposal in your area. Some cities have made yard debris composting mandatory. In this case, you’d need to have the debris dropped off at the proper composting facility. It may not be accepted at the municipal landfill, so be sure to do your due diligence. Search your city’s solid waste authority website or give them a call to learn more.
\r\n\r\nExamples: kitchen stove (range), microwave, washer, dryer, dishwasher, refrigerator
\r\n\r\nHiring a junk removal company for removal of one or several appliances is a quick and cost-effective method of removal. Junk haulers charge a minimum fee of anywhere from $50 to $125, so expect to be charged at least that amount for the appliance removal.
\r\n\r\nA dumpster works well for disposal of a whole home's worth of appliances, such as during a major renovation project or demolition. Choose a bigger dumpster than you think you need. Why? Most roll-off containers have rounded bottoms, while most appliances are bulky and square. So while you may have 10 cubic yards worth of appliances (10 kitchen stoves equals approximately 10 cubic yards), the appliances will consume greater than 10 cubic yards worth of space inside the dumpster. In this example, a 20 yard bin may be the better choice.
\r\n\r\nSave on disposal costs by donating working appliances to local charitable organizations, such as Habitat for Humanity. Some locations may even pick them up for free, so be sure to ask! Alternatively, you can sell appliances that are still in good shape via Craigslist, Facebook, or by other means.
\r\n\r\nExamples: lead-acid batteries, fluorescent bulbs, household cleaners, motor oil, chemicals
\r\n\r\nThis class of wastes should never be mixed in with the general waste stream, so avoid putting household hazardous wastes in the waste bin, dumpsters, burning it, burying it, or using any other unsafe disposal method. Doing so can taint drinking water, harm local wildlife, produce unsafe crops at local farms, and pollute the air. Dispose of HHWs by dropping them off at a local HHW processing facility. Some communities also host annual or biannual HHW pickup events where you can drop off a wide range of hazardous wastes found in your home.
\r\n\r\nJunk removal companies and some dumpster rental providers will accept HHWs if you discuss it beforehand. There may or may not be additional fees for handling/hauling of hazardous materials—it depends upon the company and local laws governing HHW handling. Find a household hazardous waste recycler near you.
\r\n\r\nHere’s a quick breakdown of common types of HHWs:
\r\n\r\nCommon A, AA, AAA, D, and similar dry-cell batteries can be thrown away with your trash. However, car batteries and other larger batteries need to be properly recycled.
\r\n\r\nThis includes motor oil, antifreeze, household cleaners, fuel, and other toxic/flammable liquids. Motor oil can be safely dropped off for recycling at a local oil change facility or car dealership that provides service. Other liquids can usually be dropped off at an HHW facility or cleanup event.
\r\n\r\nFluorescent bulbs (CFLs) shouldn’t be mixed in with household trash. They contain small amounts of mercury. Drop these off at the nearest recycling facility that accepts CFLs. Some retailers, such as Lowe's and IKEA, also accept CFLs for proper recycling. Learn more about CFL recycling.
\r\n\r\nDispose of medications at your local cleanup event or HHW processing facility.
\r\n\r\nIf you do not have access to this type of event or facility, you can dispose of medicines in the following manner:
\r\n\r\nHighly-flammable, combustible, and explosive wastes can be dangerous when mixed in with the general waste stream. Local laws dictate the proper way to dispose of wastes, like fuel, oil, fireworks, lighter fluid, matches, and others.
\r\n\r\nWet paint must be dried before throwing it away. You can mix bulk amounts of paint with sand or similar material to dry it quickly. You can safely throw empty, dry paint cans into the trash or a rented dumpster. The one exception is if the paint is very old and may contain lead. It is unlikely this will be an issue considering lead paint was banned in 1978 (although lead-based paint was still sold for several years after that). If it’s a very old can of paint you need to dispose of, play it safe and bring it to a local recycling facility for proper disposal.
\r\n\r\nExamples: paper, cardboard, plastics, metal
\r\n\r\nDespite the slight downturn in recycling noted in recent history, access to recycling services is pretty extensive these days. For bulk amounts of recyclables, you have several options. Renting a dumpster is a quick and easy option for DIYers. Clean load it with recyclable materials only and the rental company may offer a discount. Junk removal is usually more expensive than renting a dumpster but is also much more convenient. Dropping recyclables off at a recycling center is the most cost-effective method for handling a low volume of recyclables. Posting an ad on Craigslist or Freecycle is another cheap and convenient way to get rid of recyclables. The potential downsides include having to wait potentially days or weeks (if ever) before finding someone to pick it up, and this method is generally limited to working well for valuable recyclables, such as metals.
\r\n\r\nBring scrap metals, like copper pipes, steel, brass fittings, iron, junk cars, etc., to a local metal scrap yard to get paid for your scraps. Some recycling facilities will even purchase bulk amounts of paper, cardboard, and plastics. For example, Padnos is a full-service recycler serving most of the State of Michigan and will purchase most types of recyclables (in bulk amounts).
\r\n\r\nFood and organic scraps can be composted. Not all food scraps are ideal for composting, however. Wastes that are excellent compost materials include:
\r\n\r\nSee a complete list of compostable items and learn how to get started. Do not compost meats, cheeses/dairy, plastics, fats, dirty paper/paper towels, breads, dog/cat wastes (grass-eating animal wastes are ok), or processed foods. If you have a bulk amount of food or organic waste to dispose of, discuss solutions with your waste hauler or a dumpster rental provider near you.
\r\n\r\nRead more: Let’s Talk About Food Waste
\r\n\r\nTires are banned for disposal in landfills in the majority of states within the United States. Instead, they can be recycled or reused. Bring old automobile tires to a tire retailer for recycling. There may be a small fee involved in some cases. Alternatively, you can sell or give away tires that still have some tread left. Recyclers, artists, and companies that work with rubber may also take them off your hands for free. Post an ad on Craigslist, Facebook, or Freecycle.org to get started. Junk removal companies also haul away tires, and this is a cost-effective and convenient option if you have a large number of tires to offload.
\r\n\r\nFind out more:
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nFound on drywall, paint, roofing materials, and other building materials. These toxic substances are more prevalent in older homes or commercial buildings. Before starting a renovation, demolition, or construction project in an older home, be sure to have it tested for asbestos, mold, and lead paint.
\r\n\r\nWhen left alone, asbestos isn’t harmful. But once asbestos fibers are released into the air, they become a danger. Renovation and demolition is when asbestos is most likely to be released into the air. Exposure can lead to lung cancer, mesothelioma, and lung problems.
\r\n\r\nKeep reading: How to Determine If Your Home Contains Asbestos
\r\n\r\nAvoid dangerous mold by controlling moisture inside your home, repairing leaks, and cleaning up after natural disasters. Mold can often hide behind walls. If you spot a large area of it, it’s best to leave the removal to the professionals. In terms of disposal, a mold removal specialist will properly discard of the materials for you. Otherwise, you can dispose of small quantities of moldy materials in a dumpster if the debris is bagged or wrapped in plastic.
\r\n\r\nLearn more: How to Safely Remove Mold from the Home
\r\n\r\nHow you dispose of lead paint debris depends upon how much of it is present and what your state’s laws are regarding disposal. If a sample of the debris contains less than 100 milligrams of lead per kilogram, you can typically dispose of it like regular municipal waste. If concentrations of lead are greater than that benchmark, special disposal procedures must be followed. It’s best to hire a lead paint abatement specialist to test for lead paint and to dispose of it if necessary. To summarize, asbestos materials always require special disposal procedures, while mold and lead paint tainted debris can be disposed of the same way you would any other C&D debris as long as the levels are low.
\r\n\r\nRent a dumpster for larger cleanups, or hire a junk hauler to come pick up smaller amounts of debris. Always inform the rental company or junk removal provider that the debris is tainted.
\r\n\r\nExamples: motor oil, antifreeze, transmission fluid, cleaners, brake fluid
\r\n\r\nMost chemicals and liquids are required to be disposed of at a licensed household hazardous waste (HHW) facility. Cities that do not have such a facility will typically hold HHW collection events once or twice per year where you can drop off chemicals and other hazardous wastes. Used motor oil can be brought to an oil change facility or auto parts store for proper recycling. Call ahead just to be sure.
\r\n\r\nNever dispose of auto fluids or chemicals in the trashcan or a dumpster. Refer to Earth911 for more information and to find a local automotive fluids recycler near you.
\r\n\r\nExamples: computers, TVs, VCRs, DVD players, tablets, phones, other electronic devices
\r\n\r\nElectronic waste, or e-waste, is growing in the U.S., and proper disposal of this debris is often misunderstood. Most e-waste is not allowed in the general waste stream; it should be properly recycled to avoid heavy metal contamination and other potential hazards. Some states, including California and New York, have banned disposal of e-waste in landfills or waste-to-energy (WTE) facilities. Instead of throwing e-waste in the trash, it should go to the proper recycling facility.
\r\n\r\nKeep reading: Recycle Your Electronics With Junk Removal Services
\r\n\r\nFind out how to dispose of common household wastes, debris, and general junk. Learn the most cost-efficient and eco-friendly disposal options for nearly every type of debris.
\r\n","changed":"2023-09-13T12:02:39+00:00"}],"populars":[],"tips":[{"name":"Roll-Off Dumpsters","body":"Generally, the bigger the container, the more weight you are allowed.
\r\n\r\nHere are some rough estimates:
\r\n\r\nSome rental providers offer unlimited weight with each rental, however, you are not allowed to overload the dumpster beyond a certain point.
\r\n\r\nFor example, there may be a “fill line” painted on the inside of the container you must keep the debris level below.
\r\n\r\nOther rental providers charge you almost exclusively by weight rather than charging you a base rate + including a weight allowance.
\r\n\r\nThis is an affordable choice if your debris is lightweight, such as lumber or household trash.
\r\n\r\nThis may not always be cost-effective for heavy debris, such as concrete or roofing shingles.
\r\n\r\nLearn more:
\r\n\r\n\r\n\n\t\t\t\t\tLaPierre Waste Systems is a local company with deep roots in the North Country. With over 20 years in the waste hauling business, we strive to...\n\t\t\t\t\tmore\n\t\t\t\t
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