What are the Types of Construction Waste?
Construction is happening all around us, and wherever it happens, it creates lots of waste, which seems obvious considering the nature of the work. Whether it is demolishing old structures to make space for modern architecture or excavating huge amounts of earth to make a strong foundation for a building, tonnes of waste are produced as a result. But what exactly qualifies as construction waste? Are there types of construction waste? Can there be hazardous construction waste as well? Knowing the answers to these queries may help you identify the different types of construction waste. Learn all about the different construction waste types in this article!
Types of Construction Waste
By learning the different types of construction waste, you can either recycle them or dispose of them properly or better hire a professional dumpster rental service to sort out the mess. Here is a list of the most common types of waste material produced as a result of construction work:
- Dredging materials
To prepare a site for construction or demolition, lots of earth is excavated, which results in a huge amount of dredging waste. This waste could include trees, rocks, soil, and rubble. Although this waste is not hazardous, a waste management company should be contacted to ensure proper removal of debris. - Demolition Waste
Demolition projects create hazardous and non-hazardous waste both. Hazardous waste, such as asbestos found in insulation materials, poses fatal health risks as it can lead to lung diseases and cancer. Therefore, it’s important to remove it as early as possible by hiring a dumpster rental company. Non-hazardous waste includes cement, bricks, glass, tiles, and ceramics. This waste is also called inert waste, as it doesn’t undergo significant chemical or physical changes over a period of time, and it is often recycled, which reduces the cost of manufacturing the necessary materials for construction. - Metallic waste
Metallic waste produced from construction waste encompasses non-hazardous metals such as copper, bronze, brass, aluminum, lead, iron, steel, tin, and other mixed metals. Recycling is a proper waste management strategy for these metals. However, there could be a hazardous metallic waste as well, such as cables containing oil or coal tar, and it should be carefully handled by the experts only. - Plastic waste
Plastic waste is a big concern in construction due to its long degradation period and highly adverse environmental impacts. Common sources of plastic waste include cables, insulation, pipes, and packaging materials. A professional dumpster rental service should be contacted to ensure plastic waste is timely removed and recycled. - Electronic waste
Electronic waste or E-waste on the construction site includes discarded electrical appliances, wirings, and electrical components. Hazardous metals, like lead and mercury, are often found in this waste, which necessitates proper waste management to protect the environment and human lives. - Chemicals and solvents
Chemicals and solvents used for paint stripping, cleaning, and adhesives are a common presence on construction sites. However, if these substances are not cautiously managed, they can contaminate the water and soil sources. Proper removal or recycling is necessary to mitigate the harmful effects of chemical waste on construction sites.
Conclusion
Construction waste provides both challenges and opportunities for sustainable development. By implementing effective waste management strategies, the construction industry can reduce its environmental footprint. You’ll need the expertise and skills of Waste Solutions USA to get rid of the construction or any other kind of solid waste. Dial (832) 808-4755 to talk to us now!