Concrete Demolition Advice – Best Ways to Dispose of Concrete?

by | Mar 10, 2025 | Concrete Demolition

Now that you’re finished with your concrete demolition job, what should you do with all that leftover concrete? Many people dispose of concrete by leaving the pile behind or using other means. According to the C&D (Construction and Demolition Waste Management), demolition alone contributed 567 million tons of debris to the national waste stream in 2018. By reading this article, you’ll be informed on the best environmentally friendly ways to dispose of concrete.

Do Recycling After Concrete Demolition Job

Recycling Concrete is Highly Beneficial

Recycling is one of the most environmentally friendly ways to handle concrete removal. Instead of allowing old concrete to burden the environment, recycling ensures the material is repurposed for future use. Recycled concrete is commonly used in road-based materials, landscaping fill, foundation support, and new concrete mixes. This reduces waste and minimizes the demand for new raw materials, thereby conserving natural resources. By choosing to recycle, you help lower carbon emissions associated with cement production and transportation. Many local facilities accept concrete waste for recycling, making it a convenient option for responsible disposal. In addition, using recycled concrete in construction projects can save money, as repurposed aggregate is often more cost-effective than newly mined materials.

What Happens to Your Recycled Concrete?

Once collected, concrete is taken to a recycling facility, undergoing a series of crushing and screening processes. Large chunks of concrete are broken down into smaller, reusable pieces, which are then sorted by size for different applications. Some facilities also remove embedded metal, such as rebar, which is recycled separately. The resulting aggregate can be used for various construction and landscaping projects, reducing the need for brand new materials and limiting the environmental impact of waste disposal.
Construction worker in a blue shirt installs brick pavers on a patio, carefully placing a brick into position.

Landfill Disposal for Concrete Demolition

Why You Should NOT Consider Landfill Disposal

While it may seem easy, landfill disposal is not the best choice for effectively disposing of concrete waste. Due to its heavy weight and large volume, concrete takes up quite a lot of landfill space and also contributes to high concrete disposal costs. Many landfills now impose restrictions on accepting large amounts of concrete, requiring businesses and homeowners to seek alternative solutions. Lastly, disposing of concrete in landfills does not support sustainability. It also removes the possibility of being able to reuse valuable construction materials for other purposes.

What Happens if You Dispose of Concrete in Landfills?

When concrete is disposed of in landfills, it takes up valuable space that could be used for other waste, like biodegradable waste. Since concrete does not decompose like other landfill materials, it remains there indefinitely, contributing to landfill overcrowding and potential environmental hazards. Additionally, landfill sites may charge high fees for accepting concrete waste, making it an expensive and inefficient disposal method. In many areas, local regulations now encourage or mandate recycling options, further discouraging landfill disposal for construction debris. This can heavily inconvenience you if you aren’t aware of this when it comes time to dispose of concrete. So it is best to check with your local landfill disposal site before you start your concrete demolition project.
A large dumpster filled with broken drywall and construction waste sits on a city sidewalk after a renovation project.

Use a Dumpster Rental after Concrete Demolition

Why You Should Use a Dumpster Rental

One of the most convenient ways to handle concrete removal is by renting a dumpster. A good quality dumpster for construction debris provides a hassle-free solution for collecting and transporting large amounts of concrete waste. This method is particularly useful for projects generating substantial amounts of debris, such as driveway replacements, foundation removals, or commercial demolition jobs. A dumpster rental streamlines the disposal process by keeping all waste in one place, reducing the risk of mess and inefficiency. By renting a dumpster, you also ensure compliance with local waste management regulations. Many dumpster rental services partner with recycling facilities, meaning your concrete waste is more likely to be repurposed than in a landfill! This is an effective way to manage concrete demolition waste while maintaining an environmentally responsible approach. Just be sure to find a reputable company that disposes of concrete in a responsible manner.

How to Get a Dumpster Rental Service

Securing a dumpster rental for concrete disposal is simple. Start by researching local companies that offer construction and demolition waste removal. Contact the provider to discuss available dumpster sizes, as concrete is extremely heavy and may require a specialized container. Once you have selected a suitable dumpster, schedule a delivery and pickup date that aligns with your project timeline. Some rental companies also guide proper disposal practices to ensure compliance with local regulations. When using a dumpster for concrete disposal, follow the provider’s guidelines regarding acceptable materials. Some companies require that the dumpster contains only clean concrete, meaning it should not be mixed with other types of debris like wood, metal, or hazardous waste. By adhering to these guidelines, you can ensure that your waste is disposed of responsibly and efficiently.
A black dump trailer with a tarp is parked in a residential driveway, likely used for hauling construction debris or yard waste.

Conclusion

Now that you know the best practices for concrete removal, you’ll be able to handle all aspects of your concrete demolition project confidently. When you dispose of concrete in a way that benefits the environment, it positively impacts your community. However, if you are unsure how to dispose of concrete effectively or need any help with any concrete demolition project, we at M1 Landscaping can help you. With our expert knowledge in landscaping, patios, and more, we can ensure a smooth process for any landscaping project, from conception to demolition! Contact us today for a free quote; we promise you won’t be disappointed!

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