Paper, plastic, glass ... Sheetrock? Although you may not yet have to recycle everything from a small home-improvement project, it's a great idea to divert debris from landfills, says Maximo (maximoconstruction.com). Her home city, for example, aims to take its recycling from the current 72 percent to 100 percent by 2020.
"Start by reusing anything that's in good condition and free of asbestos and lead paint," she says. (Have a professional assessment done if you're unsure.) "Install your old kitchen cabinets in the laundry room or garage, or frame a new closet with reclaimed lumber." Ceramic and stone tile, too, can often be reused. See below for where to dispose of some other common items.
Salvage yard Drop off anything that's in good shape and free of toxins: surplus building materials (such as unused grout and electrical wire), hardware, appliances less than five years old, and windows and doors with working parts like hinges and sash weights. (Some yards will pick up large loads for no charge.) TIP Choose a yard that benefits a nonprofit--with a receipt, your donation may be tax-deductible.
Scrap-metal dealer or recycler Recycle copper pipes and other metal items, such as heating ducts. In some cases, you can sell scrap metal--including hot-water heaters, furnaces, and appliances more than five years old--to dealers (some cities will pick up old clunker appliances).
Specialized recycler For concrete, gypsum board, asphalt roof tile, carpet and padding, and old appliances, check with your area recycling center, or visit earth911.com for a facility near you.
Dump Check local guidelines, but you'll likely need to trash vinyl flooring. TIP Don't mix construction debris with household garbage, which often goes to a separate processing center.
Handle with care Follow local guidelines for disposing of paint, chemicals, fluorescent light-bulbs, and anything containing asbestos or lead paint.
ARCADIA MAXIMO :: certified green builder and contractor, SAN FRANCISCO
Author: Thomas J. Story
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