How to Safely Dispose of Concrete: What You Need to Know!

Getting rid of concrete and most other construction materials is not as easy as leaving them on the curb. You typically can’t just shove them into a dumpster either. Instead, they require some careful planning to remove.

Luckily, there are quite a few options available. Concrete is not nearly as toxic as some other construction materials, but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t be careful when considering what to do with it.

6 Ways to Properly Dispose of Concrete

There are nine main ways you can get rid of concrete properly. Some of these ways only work for already broken concrete, while others require that the concrete be decently kept together. Some are best for large amounts, though others are only appropriate for minute amounts. Once you choose a way of disposal, all of these ways are pretty simple.

1. Rent a Dumpster

While you can’t haul concrete to some random dumpster and shove it in, it is possible to rent your dumpster. This costs a bit more money than some other options and is only practical for large amounts of concrete. Otherwise, the extra cost will likely not be worth it.

Lots of companies rent out dumpsters. Many will drop them up and pick them up the same day. So, you can rent one, throw all the concrete in it, and be done with it. It is a one-cost option that is best for those with the time and ability to shove all the concrete in the bin.

2. Use Social Media

You can likely use social media to your advantage. Many people are looking for odd jobs and quick ways to make money. If you post a classified on a local Facebook group, you will likely have multiple people willing to haul off the concrete for a small fee. This is usually a very cheap option since none of these people will be professionals.

Furthermore, you may be able to pay someone to pick up all the concrete as well. If you don’t have the time or patience to put a bunch of concrete in a bin, this is a simple way to avoid having to do it yourself.

3. Hire a Junk Removal Company

You may discover that you have a few junk removal companies in your area. These companies specialize in removing junk, including concrete, so they are often the perfect choice for these situations. They can be one of the most expensive options, though. They’re best for large amounts of concrete.

When you’re considering using one of these companies, you will have to do many calls around. Many of these companies may not work with concrete, so you’ll have to contact different companies until you find one that does. You may also want to get multiple quotes, especially if you have a lot of concrete lying around. If there is other debris you have lying around from the construction project, you can likely pay them to haul them off as well.

4. Dump it Yourself

You may have a landfill nearby that will take your concrete for free if you’re a resident. Not all landfills can handle large amounts of concrete, so you will need to ask before proceeding. You will also need a way to get the concrete to the landfill. If you have a pickup truck, this might not be such a huge deal. However, if you don’t, a rental could cost more than it’s worth.

DIY is usually considered to be cheaper than hiring someone to do it. When it comes to dumping concrete, this isn’t always the case, though.

You will need to call your local landfills to find one that will take your concrete. Some of them may charge a fee; others might be free. It just depends.

5. Landscaping Companies

In some situations, landscaping companies might accept your used concrete for free. Many sustainable companies are always on the lookout for free materials they can recycle. Concrete can be used to pave, create paths, build retaining walls, and block off flower beds.

You could give a few landscaping companies near you a call and see if they want your used concrete. Usually, those that are labeled as “green” or “sustainable” are good options.

6. Building Materials Supply Companies

If there is a large supply company near you, they may take your concrete for free. They may or may not pick it up from your location, though. Many companies will require that you deliver it to them and unload it at the appropriate location. If you don’t have a pickup truck or another way to move the concrete, you may be out of luck.

Getting Rid of Concrete

Finding somewhere to put your concrete can be expensive. You can hire someone to come and get it for you, but they often charge a substantial fee. Even landfills may charge you a fee for dropping it off. The cheapest options are finding a landscaping or building supply company that will take your concrete for free.  However, you still have to find a way to get it to them, which can be expensive in itself.

Luckily, though, there are many ways you can go about getting rid of your concrete. You have many selections to choose from, which is vital since some options may not be available near you.

Featured Image Credit: Nopkamon Tanayakorn, Shutterstock