Tearing down walls can be one of the most satisfying parts of a home renovation. But once the dust settles, you’re left staring at heaps of broken drywall—and wondering what to do with it all. Can it go in the garbage? Is it recyclable? And what are the environmental impacts? Let’s walk through the proper disposal of old drywall and avoid costly mistakes.
Why Drywall Disposal Matters
Drywall, also known as gypsum board or Sheetrock, may seem harmless, but improper disposal can lead to big problems. Drywall contains gypsum, a soft sulfate mineral that can produce toxic hydrogen sulfide gas when buried in landfills and exposed to moisture.
Here’s why proper drywall disposal is important:
- Environmental protection: Prevents air and soil pollution
- Safety: Avoids dangerous mold growth from damp drywall
- Legal compliance: Fines may apply for dumping drywall in regular trash in many municipalities
If you’re doing drywall disposal in Richmond, be aware that local regulations may restrict drywall from being placed in curbside bins and require drop-off at approved facilities.
Step 1: Separate the Drywall from Other Debris
Before disposing of drywall, sort it out from other renovation waste like wood, insulation, nails, and metal. Clean drywall (free from paint, tile, asbestos, or black mold) may be accepted by recycling facilities.
Pro Tip: Keep screws, nails, and wall coverings out of the drywall pile for smoother recycling.
Step 2: Check for Hazardous Materials (Like Asbestos)
If your home was built before the 1990s, there’s a chance the drywall—or the joint compound used on it—contains asbestos. Disturbing asbestos can release harmful fibers into the air, posing serious health risks.
What to do:
- Hire a certified asbestos abatement professional to test suspect materials.
- Never handle or dispose of asbestos-containing drywall on your own.
If asbestos is confirmed, you’ll need to use a facility that handles hazardous waste disposal in Richmond as drywall contaminated with hazardous substances cannot go to regular recycling centers.
Step 3: Know Your Local Rules for Drywall Disposal
Different municipalities have different rules. In Richmond, drywall is considered construction waste, and dumping it in residential bins can result in rejection or fines.
Instead, take your drywall to an approved C&D waste facility or a company, Canadian Empire Recycling, that specializes in drywall and gypsum recycling. If you’re outside Richmond, look for designated drywall waste drop-off in Richmond or other authorized depots that follow provincial guidelines.
Step 4: Recycle If Possible
Yes, drywall can be recycled—but only if it’s clean and uncontaminated. Recycled gypsum can be:
- Reused in new drywall manufacturing
- Spread on agricultural fields as a soil amendment
- Used in cement and construction materials
Facilities like Canadian Empire Recycling often separate and process gypsum from old drywall to keep it out of landfills.
Step 5: Rent a Bin for Large Renovations
If your project involves removing large amounts of drywall, renting a dedicated construction waste bin is a smart move. Many waste disposal services in Richmond and the Lower Mainland offer bins specifically for drywall and other C&D waste.
Make sure to:
- Label the bin clearly (e.g., “Drywall Only”)
- Keep it covered to avoid moisture damage
- Confirm with the provider that they accept drywall
What Not to Do
Avoid these drywall disposal mistakes:
- Don’t burn it – Releases toxic fumes
- Don’t bury it – Can create hazardous gases
- Don’t dump it in regular garbage bins – May be rejected by waste haulers
Drywall needs special handling—treat it that way.
Tearing out old walls can be exciting, but what happens next is just as important. Proper drywall disposal ensures you’re not endangering your health, the environment, or your wallet. Whether you’re handling a small DIY update or a full-scale demolition, know your options and handle your waste responsibly. For fast, safe, and eco-friendly drywall disposal in Richmond, contact Canadian Empire Recycling. Their team can guide you through the process and help you meet all local requirements, so you can renovate without the waste headache.