Most storm damage is covered (at least to an extent) by homeowner’s insurance.
\r\n\r\nThe first step in handling a storm damage cleanup is to contact your insurance company. The damage may be covered and paid for by the insurance company, including the cleanup, so contact your insurance company for details.
\r\n\r\nHowever, the cost of cleaning up after a storm can vary quite significantly based on the type and overall scale of the damage.
\r\n\r\nCommon cleanup options include hiring a junk removal service, renting a dumpster, or DIY cleanup/disposal. Costs can vary from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars.\r\n\r\n
This guide will cover typical costs to cleanup damage caused by a tornado, hurricane, windstorm, and other severe storms using the most popular cleanup options.
\r\n\r\n![\"Cost](\"/sites/default/files/inline-images/infographic_17.png\")
\r\n\r\n\r\n![\"Crew](\"/sites/default/files/inline-images/crew-saws-downed-tree.jpg\")
\r\nMost local junk removal companies offer expertise in storm damage cleanups.
\r\n\r\nThis may include cleaning up yard debris, tree branches, small structure damage (e.g., sheds), and general debris cleanups.
\r\n\r\nMany junk removal companies provide service for larger storm cleanups as well, including significant damage to homes or buildings.
\r\n\r\nWe suggest getting several estimates before hiring a junk removal company.
\r\n\r\nDon’t base your decision on price alone, as the reputation of a company is a key factor in finding a good junk hauler.\r\n\r\n
It’s important to involve your insurance company in this process.
\r\n\r\nFor the most severe storm damage, it may be necessary to contact FEMA for assistance.
\r\n\r\nIt’s difficult to pinpoint an exact cost figure in this case due to the varying degrees of storm damage specific to each instance.
\r\n\r\nCleaning up a pickup truckload worth of tree branches following a thunderstorm will likely cost $300-$400, while cleaning up following a major flooding event could cost thousands of dollars, if not tens of thousands.
\r\n\r\nKeep reading: Junk Removal Prices Near Me and How to Get a Good Deal
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n![\"Dumpster](\"/sites/default/files/inline-images/large-dumpster-rental-full-of-junk.jpg\")
\r\nRenting a dumpster is a cost-effective option for storm cleanups.
\r\n\r\nFor example, a 10 yard dumpster can be rented for as little as $250 in many parts of the country. (Larger dumpsters typically will cost more.)
\r\n\r\nMost dumpster rental companies accept yard debris or general storm damage debris, but there may be some exceptions.
\r\n\r\nOne example is moldy drywall or other toxic materials.
\r\n\r\nBe sure to describe the type of debris and overall project details with the dumpster rental company before booking a dumpster.
\r\n\r\nDumpster rental prices will vary based on location and the size of the container.
\r\n\r\nThe price to rent a dumpster typically includes everything (drop off, disposal, etc.) and seven days to load the dumpster.
\r\n\r\nMost rental companies enforce a weight limit for each dumpster, so be cautious not to exceed it when loading heavy or wet debris.
\r\n\r\nLearn more: 7 Factors That Affect the Cost of a Dumpster Rental
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n![\"Large](\"/sites/default/files/inline-images/downed-tree.jpg\")
\r\nDisposing of the storm damage debris yourself is always an option.
\r\n\r\nIt may not be the safest, easiest, or even the most cost-effective choice for this type of project, but it is still a viable option in some cases.
\r\n\r\nDIY disposal can be good choice for smaller storm cleanups.
\r\n\r\nFor example, cleaning up tree branches or a small downed tree is typically something homeowners can do themselves.
\r\n\r\nTools may be required for the job, such as a chainsaw, woodchipper, wheelbarrows, and other hand tools. Trucks and/or trailers are also required to haul away the debris.
\r\n\r\nDIY cleanups do not necessarily equate to “free.\"
\r\n\r\nThere are several costs associated with DIY storm cleanups, including possible equipment or tool rentals, landfill dump fees, fuel costs, and your time.
\r\n\r\nIn many cases, it may be a better deal to rent a dumpster or hire a junk removal service to complete the job.
\r\n\r\nHometown makes it easy for customers to find dumpster rental companies in their area.
\r\n
\r\nBrowse dumpster rental companies based on your zip code, read customer reviews for each company, and request quotes from multiple dumpster rental providers to ensure you pay a fair price for great services.
Find out more:
\r\n\r\nMajor storms and natural disasters caused $148 billion in damages in 2021 alone. Learn the costs of small-to-medium storm cleanups, including the most popular storm cleanup methods and how to find a qualified company to assist in your storm cleanup.
\r\n","changed":"2023-03-02T18:02:22+00:00"},{"id":"0492a691-82bb-525c-afcc-850d58ffec22","title":"How to Clean Out an Old Dirty Basement","url":"/blog/how-to-clean-out-basement","image":{"path":"/static/50725402711b8a3d64f8bf6449bd9c71/old-dirty-basement.png","alt":"old dirty basement"},"video":null,"media_type":"image","tags":[{"id":"61ca817b-0498-5abf-bbe7-cdf5935242bc","name":"Junk Removal","slug":"Junk-Removal"},{"id":"c31df595-00f6-51ea-a7da-584c54e964ba","name":"Basement Cleanout","slug":"Basement-Cleanout"}],"content":"Sick of your cluttered, dirty, hoarder-level basement? You're not alone.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nCountless homeowners struggle with a messy basement until they get tired of the disorganization and chaos and decide to do something about it.
\r\n
The good news is that cleaning out your basement doesn't have to take as long as you think, especially when you utilize your time and resources wisely.
\r\n\r\nIn this guide, we'll discuss how to clean out a basement fast, breaking it down into steps, and how much it would cost you to get a little help and save a lot of time.
\r\n\r\n![\"how](\"/sites/default/files/inline-images/how-to-clean-out-old-dirty-basement-infographic.png\")
\r\n\r\n\r\nA basement can be a functional and even beautiful space for you and your family to enjoy, but it can quickly become piled with items and junk.
\r\n\r\nIdeally, you stay on top of your basement's contents and organization throughout the months and years, but more important things come up and it can be a hard thing to keep up with consistently, especially if you struggle with getting rid of things.
\r\n\r\nHowever, when the junk and old items get out of hand and continuously build up, they can also accumulate dust mites, insect droppings, and other gross and potentially dangerous surprises.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nAfter a certain point, when the basement is extremely cluttered and dirty, it's time to consider getting help with a complete basement cleanout.
\r\n
Here's how basement cleanouts work...
\r\n\r\nBefore hiring help with your basement cleanout, tag the boxes you want to keep with a post-it or set aside the items you don't want to get rid of.
\r\n\r\nIf you're unable to go through all the items you have, it's best to enlist the help of family or friends to help you sort through it all.
\r\n\r\nIf you’re having a hard time choosing whether or not you want to keep something, ask yourself the following questions:
\r\n\r\nBe honest with yourself and only keep the items that serve a purpose in your life and bring you joy.
\r\n\r\nOnce you make it clear what you want to get rid of, or if you want to get rid of everything in the basement, the next step is to reach out to local junk haulers in your area.
\r\n\r\nThese companies are experts in basement cleanouts and do not simply haul things to the dump; they separate the items that can be donated or recycled, so you can be comfortable that your items will have a new life in a new home rather than filling up landfills.
\r\n\r\nTypically with big projects like basement cleanouts, junk removal companies will need to give you a cost estimate in person after fully assessing your project needs.
\r\n\r\nIt's ideal to get at least three estimates when hiring a professional to help you with any project, but it can be a little hard to do that when the companies have to come out to your basement to give you a quote.
\r\n\r\nAnd with COVID, you may want to minimize the number of service providers you have in your home.
\r\n\r\nWe recommend recording video or taking adequate photos to capture your project needs. That way, the junk haulers can quote your project without needing to come out to your basement.
\r\n\r\nOnce you agree to a project estimate and hire a company, they'll get to work removing your items.
\r\n\r\nA team of two or more will come haul your items onto their truck.
\r\n\r\nThey then transfer your items to their headquarters where the items can be sorted, donated whenever possible, recycled, or tossed as a last resort.
\r\n\r\nIf you have a lot of items that can be donated, most companies are happy to provide you with a donation receipt.
\r\n\r\nAfter all of your items are hauled out of your basement, the company typically sweeps the area, takes your payment, and goes on their merry way.
\r\n\r\nLearn more:
\r\n\r\nProfessional cleanout and hauling services are extremely helpful for cleaning out messy basements.
\r\n\r\nThese companies have the equipment and experience needed to safely, efficiently, and tactfully complete basement cleanouts of all shapes and sizes.
\r\n\r\nIf you don't have the time or physical ability to clean out your basement yourself with the help of a dumpster, junk removal services are a great option.
\r\n\r\nKeep reading:
\r\n\r\nThe average cost of basement cleanouts is $300-$400, but your exact cleanout costs can vary.
\r\n\r\nThe cost of your basement cleanout project will depend on:
\r\n\r\nNote: In some cases, renting a dumpster is the cheaper option, especially with big cleanup projects. If you have friends or family that are willing and able to help you, renting a dumpster for a week can cost less than hiring junk removal pros to do it for you.
\r\n\r\nFind out more:
\r\n\r\nCleaning out your basement doesn't have to take as long as you think. Utilize your time and resources wisely and see how professional cleanout services can help.
\r\n","changed":"2022-01-26T01:08:27+00:00"},{"id":"8f7dee13-7d0e-5f1d-9f49-1af37843e272","title":"What Junk Removal Companies Do With All Your Stuff","url":"/blog/what-junk-removal-companies-do-with-your-stuff","image":{"path":"/static/64dc24cf08c00b3dd181a18ffbe2e495/1-spring.png","alt":"Person holding small clear recycling bin full of electronics"},"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":"c6d09b3c-4685-5ba7-83fd-d69df65bae55","name":"Declutter","slug":"Declutter"}],"content":"Hiring a junk removal company to remove and haul away your unwanted items is one of the most efficient and convenient disposal services.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nBut you may be wondering, \"What will a junk removal company do with all my stuff?\"
\r\n
Hometown's mission is to make junk removal services easy to access and easy to understand, so we've gathered all the info about junk removal disposal methods here.
\r\n\r\n![\"What](\"/sites/default/files/inline-images/what-junk-removal-does-with-your-stuff-infographic.png\")
\r\nIf you have old items like that are in good, working condition, many junk removal companies will haul them to local donation centers and resale stores to donate them.
\r\n\r\nClothing, kitchenware, furniture, appliances, decor, and electronics are just some of the items that can be donated if they are in decent condition.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nNot only is donating beneficial for the global environment and your local economy, but you could also get a tax deduction for the total value of the items you donate.
\r\n
Some junk removal services may provide you with a tax deduction slip in the amount of your donated items from the donation center they haul them to, so it doesn't hurt to ask.
\r\n\r\nLearn more:
\r\n\r\n![\"Cardboard](\"/sites/default/files/inline-images/2-spring.png\")
\r\nThe goal of most junk removal companies (or the reputable ones, anyway) is to separate the junk they haul away so that they can recycle as much as possible.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nProfessional junk removal services are experts at separating trash from recyclables and typically have long-standing relationships with local recycling facilities.
\r\n
Even construction and demolition debris can be recycled and reused to make new construction material.
\r\n\r\nWith nearly 140 million tons of trash ending up in U.S. landfills every year, it's important now more than ever to hire companies that utilize environmentally friendly practices.
\r\n\r\nKeep reading:
\r\n\r\nItems that cannot be donated or recycled are hauled off to local landfills.
\r\n\r\nWhen the junk removal crew arrives at the landfill, their vehicle containing your junk is weighed.
\r\n\r\nAfter your items are removed and dumped, the removal crew's vehicle will be weighed again to determine the weight of the items dumped at the landfill.
\r\n\r\nThe junk removal company will be charged a fee based on the amount of trash dumped at the facility.
\r\n\r\nFinding a locally-owned and operated junk removal company in your area is easy with Hometown. You can read real reviews, get answers to common junk removal questions, and request multiple junk removal quotes—all in one convenient place.
\r\nContinue reading:
\r\n\r\nHiring a junk removal company to remove and haul away your unwanted items is one of the most efficient and convenient disposal services, but you may be wondering what they'll do with all your unwanted stuff. Learn about the most common disposal methods utilized by reputable junk removal companies.
\r\n","changed":"2022-07-01T03:43:20+00:00"},{"id":"9729112c-2f93-5367-8f5e-eb010bc5dafb","title":"How to Get Rid of Unwanted Tires","url":"/blog/how-to-get-rid-of-tires","image":{"path":"/static/03790c4d807a62952e11bef147a577cf/tiresss.png","alt":"Old tire in the middle of a field"},"video":null,"media_type":"image","tags":[{"id":"3dde684e-2e36-5333-a779-279e147f03bb","name":"Tire Removal","slug":"Tire-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":"Letting old rubber tires collect and sit on your property can welcome a host of health hazards, so getting rid of them swiftly and legally is important.
\r\n\r\nMosquitoes thrive in areas where water has collected and old rubber tires being left out in the elements is the perfect breeding ground for mosquitoes and other diseases-carrying pests.
\r\n\r\nIn addition to being a mosquito magnet, tires that are allowed to bake in the sun release methane into the air, posing a health risk to you, your neighbors, pets, and wildlife.
\r\n\r\nBecause the material tires are made from releases methane, it causes tires to bubble to the surface of landfills, breaking the surface, and exposing surrounding areas to harmful toxins.
\r\n\r\nRecycling or repurposing your old tires are the only disposal options to consider.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nRubber tires cannot be taken to landfills and should not be put in your regular garbage or a dumpster with other debris. Attempting to do so could result in fines depending on the laws in your municipality.
\r\n
Luckily, there are multiple other solutions to get rid of your old, unwanted car tires, and we'll outline each one in this quick how-to guide.
\r\n\r\n![\"How](\"/sites/default/files/inline-images/get-rid-unwanted-tires.png\")
\r\nSome recycling centers have a system for recycling rubber tires while others do not, so check with your local center(s) to confirm their rules and regulations before assuming that they'll accept your tires and taking them there.
\r\n\r\nThere are also many recycling centers throughout the U.S. that are specific for just tires.
\r\n\r\nDepending on how far away one is located from you, these centers are a convenient way to get rid of unwanted tires.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nPlaces that sell tires will usually accept old tires for a small fee.
\r\n\r\nThey know exactly where and how to recycle this type of material and have programs in place to do so efficiently.
\r\n\r\nTire retailers usually charge somewhere between $5-$10 per rubber tire that you're wanting to get rid of.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nMany cites and townships all over the country have partnered with local recycling centers to create community events to help citizens get rid of hazardous material that can't be thrown in with their regular weekly trash or recycling bins.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nIn addition to tires, items like old electronics, car batteries, and appliances should not be dumped in landfills and should be properly recycled.
\r\n
Because communities recognize that recycling these items can cost money or require additional effort, they create these community recycling events to make it easier and encourage people to do the right thing.
\r\n\r\nSpeak with a representative from your county's recycling division for more information about upcoming events.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n![\"Child](\"/sites/default/files/inline-images/tires.png\")
\r\nRather than haul your tires off to be repurposed by someone else, get creative and repurpose them yourself.
\r\n\r\nRubber tires can be reused for gardens, landscaping, playgrounds, art, and more!
\r\n\r\nRead more: 60+ Ingenious Ways to Reuse Scrap Tires
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nHiring a junk removal company to come remove your pile of old tires is a quick and easy way to get the job done without having to lift a finger.
\r\n\r\nDepending on the amount of tires you have to get rid of, a junk removal crew could complete the removal in under 20 minutes.
\r\n\r\nMost junk removal services have a minimum fee they charge for the smallest of jobs, which averages around $75-$100 and goes up based on volume and the amount of time it takes for them to remove your items.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nHiring a junk removal company to remove only one or two tires might not be a cost-effective option, but if you have collected a larger pile over time, a junk removal crew could save you a ton of time and effort.
\r\n
The best way to get the best price is to contact multiple junk removal companies for quotes to compare pricing, availability, and customer service.
\r\n\r\nWe recommend getting at least 2-3 quotes to ensure you're paying a competitive price.
\r\n\r\nHometown makes it easy to final local junk removal providers that service your area.
\r\n\r\nBy providing your zip code and answering a few short questions about your service needs, you'll be shown a list of local, licensed, and reputable companies that are near you and ready to help.
\r\n\r\nKeep reading:
\r\n\r\n![\"Large](\"/sites/default/files/inline-images/tiress.png\")
\r\nWhile not all dumpster rental companies accept tires, some can be \"clean loaded\" with tires to be taken to a recycling center.
\r\n\r\nClean loading a dumpster means to only load one specific type of debris into the dumpster (in this case, rubber tires) so that the material can be recycled or reused somehow.
\r\n\r\nThis is a great option if you've accumulated enough tires to be able to fill a dumpster and if you've found a dumpster rental company near you that agrees to transport these tires to an EPA-approved recycling facility.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nStay away from a dumpster rental company that accepts tires but intends on dumping them at the landfill.
\r\n
10 yard dumpsters are typically the smallest temporary dumpster rental option and costs somewhere near $250-$350 on average.
\r\n\r\nLike junk removal, Hometown helps homeowners and business owners find dumpster rentals in their area that are affordable, reputable, and locally-owned.
\r\n\r\nYou can read dumpster rental reviews from real customers and get as many dumpster rental quotes as you'd like, free of charge.
\r\n\r\nContinue reading:
\r\n\r\nLetting old rubber tires sit on your property can welcome a host of health hazards, so getting rid of them swiftly and legally is important. Find out the many responsible tire disposal options available to you.
\r\n","changed":"2022-09-20T17:37:12+00:00"},{"id":"712bffaa-b022-57a4-aca4-8ec2829a37f6","title":"How to Manage Remodel Debris and Dust","url":"/blog/how-to-manage-remodel-debris-and-dust","image":{"path":"/static/1ffc98a5fbc347381a9a5772b3aa765f/remodel-debris.jpg","alt":"Man shaking construction dust off work gloves"},"video":null,"media_type":"image","tags":[{"id":"04cc94ec-8031-599d-b367-22042ec698df","name":"Construction Debris Removal","slug":"Construction-Debris-Removal"},{"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":"Managing dust and debris is an important part of the remodeling process. It's important to take a proactive approach to the cleanup aspect of a home or business remodel to protect both you and your property.
\r\n\r\nThere are several steps to take before a remodel to minimize the mess and stress of your project, but there are also solutions available if you've already begun your remodel and are in need of debris management after the fact.
\r\n\r\n![\"How](\"/sites/default/files/inline-images/manage-debris-infographic_2.jpg\")
\r\nThe best way to manage construction and demolition (C&D) debris is to take action before you begin remodeling. Any items left in the areas surrounding your project that are left exposed will be vulnerable to collecting dust and debris that can settle in every nook and cranny it lands on, making cleanup much more difficult and time-consuming. Old, fragile, and valuable items especially should be far removed from any remodeling workspace to ensure no damage is done from the consequential settling of dust and debris.
\r\n\r\nMake sure to remove all of your belongings, including any furniture, decor, rugs, etc., until the area that you're remodeling is completely empty. Be sure to protect any fixtures or carpeted material that can't be removed from the area with corrugated plastic, sticky mats, plastic coverings, or something similar. It's important to cover any remaining items with a plastic material rather than a fabric covering because small particles can get stuck in soft materials, allowing the opportunity for it to penetrate the protective barrier to your belongings.
\r\n\r\nYou'll also want to create a disposal plan for your renovation debris, like drywall, tiling, packaging, and dust. Renting a temporary dumpster is an efficient and affordable way to manage your C&D debris throughout the course of your project. Dumpster rentals typically last for one week or more, making it convenient option for large or ongoing projects. It's beneficial to secure a dumpster rental ahead of time rather than waiting until after the fact. Having an efficient way to manage your debris throughout the course of your renovation helps to greatly reduce the risk of damage or injury.
\r\n\r\nIf your remodel is a small project and will produce less than 7 cubic yards worth of waste, it may be easier or more cost-efficient to manage your debris with heavy duty trash bags and a junk removal crew to haul away your waste once your renovation is finished.
\r\n\r\nGetting quotes from junk removal and dumpster rental services that in your area is fast and free with Hometown's single quote request form. You simply enter your zip code and answer a few short questions about your debris disposal needs to receive quotes from different local companies in your area, allowing you to quickly and easily compare each company's pricing, customer service, and availability.
\r\nContaining remodeling dust to your workspace throughout your project is key to not spreading fine particles throughout the property. One way to do this is to create a single point of entry and exit to and from the workspace. You can create this path by taping down a tarp or other plastic to help contain any dust and debris being tracked in and out by those working on the renovation. At the end of every day, you'll be able to easily shake out the dust that has settled on the plastic or tarps into a garbage bag, into a dumpster, or into a single pile to be vacuumed up. Fold up your protective path and store in the remodeling area to be reused the next work day.
\r\n\r\nAn important aspect to keep in mind is to prioritize proper ventilation to minimize the spread of dust particles settling in other areas of the home. Keeping windows open, taping up vents, and using a construction air purifier that filters dust, particles, and contaminants are all useful tools in protecting not only your home, but any people and pets that live inside.
\r\n\r\nAnother way to manage debris throughout a renovation project is to create and execute a daily cleaning plan. Daily maintenance is the most efficient way to contain as much construction dust as possible. Any piled up debris should be bagged or thrown into your dumpster rental at the end of every work day, floors should be swept and/or vacuumed, and the entry/exit point should be cleaned up. Even if you follow every precaution available, there's always a chance that some renovation dust can find ways to leave the contained workspace. Check flooring, furniture, and belongings located in the rooms surrounding the renovation project and clean up as needed. We highly advise wearing protective goggles and respirator masks when working on every aspect of a renovation, including debris management and cleanup.
\r\n\r\nLearn more:
\r\n\r\nUnless you have a very small remodeling project, getting rid of dust and debris isn't usually as simple as bagging it up and throwing it into your trash ban. In fact, there are many municipalities throughout the U.S. that have strict rules and regulations regarding the dumping of C&D debris. If attempting to transport and dump your renovation debris to your local landfill on your own, it's very important to do the proper research beforehand. Some areas may make you separate the different types of debris your project has produced so that the demolition debris can be properly recycled.
\r\n\r\nIf you rent a dumpster, be sure to tell each company you speak with about the type of waste you plan on throwing into the dumpster to ensure that all items and materials are accepted and can be mixed in together. The best way to utilize a dumpster rental is to have it on location from the beginning of the renovation until the end, so that you can place your waste in the container as it's produced. Once your remodeling project is finished and the area has been cleaned up, contact the dumpster company to come and pick up your rental. After it's been weighed and dropped off at the landfill, you'll receive your final bill. Your final bill should reflect the initial quote you were given as long as you haven't gone over your weight limit or rental period, or placed prohibited items into the container.
\r\n\r\nHiring a junk removal company to come and pick up all your debris, either bagged and ready to go or still in piles at your worksite, is another convenient way to get rid of your remodeling waste. Junk removal companies offer a more-inclusive service by doing the heavy lifting and loading for you and can sometimes be more cost efficient for smaller projects that produce less than 7 cubic yards of waste.
\r\n\r\nFind qualified debris removal services in your area by searching on Hometown. Request free quotes from multiple companies at once to shop around for the best price and customer service.
\r\n\r\nIf you're in need of professional interior demolition help, find local local contractors at Hometown Demolition. We only publish licensed, bonded, and insured contractors throughout the U.S. to make finding reputable demolition services fast, easy, and free!
\r\nManaging debris is an important part of the remodeling process. Learn how to manage dust and debris before, during, and after your remodeling project.
\r\n","changed":"2023-04-19T18:56:57+00:00"},{"id":"3c490563-908e-5222-a31a-46a3f35d87b9","title":"How Garbage Is Safely Contained in Landfills","url":"/blog/how-landfills-work","image":{"path":"/static/a1075e3741357092152ff01e7bc897cc/landfill-dump.png","alt":"Trash is compacted daily in landfills"},"video":null,"media_type":"image","tags":[{"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":"Whether you're curious about your weekly trash service or you're interested in renting a dumpster, you might be wondering how exactly your garbage is handled once it arrives at a landfill.
\r\n\r\nWe've gathered everything you need to know if you've ever been curious about how your garbage is safely handled at landfills nationwide.
\r\n\r\n![\"How](\"/sites/default/files/inline-images/landfills_0.png\")
\r\n\r\n\r\nOne of the most important aspects of waste management safety is making sure that there is a barrier protecting the ground and soil from trash and their byproducts.
\r\n\r\nWhen landfills were first created, a thick, dense clay intended to be strong and durable enough to prevent all liquids, solids, and gases from penetrating the ground surrounded the landfill.
\r\n\r\nThese easily and often break down over time, however, and were no longer deemed acceptable for new landfills in the 1980s, when a single layer of plastic liners became the new norm.
\r\n\r\nThese liners are dense, typically 30-100 mils thick, and are made up of plastic and other synthetic material.
\r\n\r\nLater, double-lining landfills became required and some even utilize a combination of both clay and plastic liners.
\r\n\r\nWhile these preventative measures are not foolproof, the importance of landfill liners cannot be understated.
\r\n\r\nLearn more about dumpsters:
\r\n\r\nTrash at the landfill is compacted into \"cells\" to make the most of landfill real estate.
\r\n\r\nWith the help of bulldozers and other heavy machinery, garbage is compacted daily into cells, covered with a layer of dirt about 6 inches thick, and then compacted again.
\r\n\r\nThe purpose of the additional layer of dirt is to minimize stench and make it more difficult for pests to access the garbage.
\r\n\r\nSome areas are using alternatives to dirt, like cement or tarps, to save even more space in each landfill.
\r\n\r\nCompacting trash daily allows the space in each landfill to be utilized to its' fullest potential.
\r\n\r\n![\"Leachate](\"/sites/default/files/inline-images/leachate.png\")
\r\nStormwater draining systems are placed on top of the landfill liner to filter out liquids from the compacted trash and from natural precipitation.
\r\n\r\nFrom there, an additional drainage system is used to separate all leachate from the rainwater.
\r\n\r\nLeachate is the liquid produced by trash and is a contaminant to both the waste and the rainfall.
\r\n\r\nRainwater is collected in drainage ditches and sent to collection ponds where it is tested for traces of leachate.
\r\n\r\nOnce it is deemed safe, it is redirected to a body of water offsite to be added back into the environment.
\r\n\r\nThe draining system for leachate has a pipe system that sends these liquids to a collection pond for leachate only, where it is allowed to settle and is tested to determine the chemical levels of the collection pond.
\r\n\r\nFrom there, the leachate is chemically treated and either sent back into the landfill so that it can be soaked up into the compacted trash where it does not reappear, or released back into the environment after it is determined as clean and safe.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nOne of the byproducts of decomposing trash is the production of harmful gases like carbon dioxide and methane.
\r\n\r\nThese greenhouse gases are harmful to the environment and are also a fire hazard to affected areas with high exposure if left untreated.
\r\n\r\nIn today's world, we have developed solutions to mitigate these dangers including burning, venting, or converting these gases into new energy.
\r\n\r\nLandfills have a system of extraction wells and pipes used to contain and transport these gases for proper disposal or reuse.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n![\"Rent](\"/sites/default/files/inline-images/garbage-truck-landfill.png\")
\r\nEventually, all landfills run out of space.
\r\n\r\nOnce a landfill is full and can no longer accept garbage, it is covered in a plaster cover permanently.
\r\n\r\nThis act of sealing a full landfill is referred to as \"capping.\"
\r\n\r\nOnce a landfill has been capped, it is covered in two feet of soil that is used to plant new vegetation.
\r\n\r\nThe additional soil and vegetation is used as protection against the elements that can cause erosion.
\r\n\r\nAll capped landfills are left undisturbed and observed regularly for 30 years to ensure no harmful leaks are released into the surrounding environment.
\r\n\r\nLearn more:
\r\n\r\nMaking sure that garbage is safely contained in landfills is crucial in minimizing the environmental impact of landfills. Learn all about how garbage is processed and handled safely in landfills nationwide.
\r\n","changed":"2025-11-13T18:50:08+00:00"}],"populars":[],"tips":[{"name":"Removing Unwanted Junk","body":"Generally speaking, junk removal companies accept more items than dumpster rental companies.
\r\n\r\nA junk removal service may be more willing to remove some of the items that you can't put in a dumpster, like tires, refrigerators, or old cans of paint.
\r\n\r\nOther common items that most junk removal companies accept include:
\r\n\r\nMost junk removal companies charge a minimum rate—typically $75-$150—regardless of how small the removal job is. For large projects, like whole-home cleanouts and hoarding jobs, you could end up paying upwards of $2,000.
\r\n\r\nThe amount of junk that needs to be removed, where the junk is located, how heavy the junk is (and whether it needs to be disassembled), and who you hire are some of the biggest factors affecting junk removal cost.
\r\n\r\nTo ensure you pay a fair price, we recommend getting quotes from 2-3 junk removal companies.
\r\n\r\nKeep reading: How Much Does It Cost to Haul Away Junk?
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