Construction projects can create huge amounts of waste. As a matter of fact, the EPA reports that construction and demolition (C&D) waste in the U.S. has totaled over 600 million tons annually in recent years, which is double the municipal solid waste generated during the same year.

If you are a homeowner working on a kitchen remodel or a contractor overseeing a large development, you should seriously think ahead about waste management. While it’s true that managing waste effectively is an environmental responsibility, it can also be a practical way to save money and maintain a cleaner and more organized job site.

Below, this dumpster rental contractor in Bolingbrook, Illinois is going to share some practical strategies that can help you reduce waste on your construction site.

Reduce waste by planning carefully and ordering only what you need.

Proper planning is how you minimize waste reduction. When you over-order materials, it creates excess that goes in the trash, whereas under-ordering can cause delays and add more costs to your project as you reorder in smaller batches.

The solution to these problems is to start with precise takeoffs. This is a process that involves carefully measuring your site, reviewing the project’s design, and calculating exactly how much material is needed. Choosing modular designs can also help you reduce waste since standard dimensions for doors, windows, and walls leave less scrap behind.

Once you know what materials you need, it’s time to coordinate with a dumpster rental contractor in Bolingbrook, Illinois. They will deliver a roll-off container to your construction site when you are ready, which will give you a designated space for all the inevitable scraps and packaging.

Keep your materials organized and handle them properly.

Even if you order just the right number of materials, poor storage and handling can quickly turn these supplies into unusable trash. It is not uncommon to see materials ruined by exposure to moisture, damage from machinery, or simple misplacement. 

You can establish clearly defined storage areas on your site to prevent this. Keep materials like drywall, lumber, and insulation covered and elevated to protect them from rain, moisture, or pests. For example, storing drywall in a dry, indoor area can keep it from getting damp and crumbly, whereas stacking lumber flat and off the ground keeps it from warping.

You must also pay attention to how traffic moves around these storage areas. Crowded areas are more likely to cause accidents or material damage. A clean and well-organized storage system is necessary to protect your materials and keep your construction site safe and efficient.

Having a dedicated roll-off dumpster on-site for damaged or unusable items can also help. Don’t be afraid to ask your dumpster rental contractor in Bolingbrook, Illinois to place the dumpster where it is easy for you and your team to dispose of waste.

Separate your waste materials on-site to recycle more and reduce landfill use.

Sorting waste on-site is one of the best ways to reduce what goes to the landfill and increase recycling. Instead of tossing everything into one dumpster, set up separate dumpsters for different materials like wood, metal, drywall, and cardboard. These materials can make up 60% to 80% of construction waste by weight or volume. So, when you properly sort these materials, you can recycle more and send less to the landfill.

So, how do you make waste segregation easier?

Make the waste disposal system simple and accessible for your team by labeling dumpsters clearly and placing them in accessible areas. A quick refresher at the start of the project to remind your team about proper waste separation can also go a long way.

Not only is waste segregation better for the environment, but it can also save you money. Many recycling centers charge less to accept sorted materials like metal, wood, and cardboard compared to mixed waste.

Looking for a Dumpster Rental Contractor in Bolingbrook, Illinois?

Are you looking for an efficient way to manage waste on your construction site? Ready to partner with the top-rated dumpster rental contractor in Bolingbrook, Illinois? If so, Economy Disposal Service is the top choice. Contact us today at (800) 263-6060 to get started.