Construction sites can generate a significant amount of waste, which creates more expenses to address it. It’s more cost-effective and environmentally friendly to minimize waste at the start. Here are helpful tips to use throughout the demolition and construction process.

How to Reduce Construction Site Waste

1. Carefully Purchase & Store Materials

Purchasing excess or wrong materials will create immediate waste. If you’re framing a home with 9-foot-high walls, purchase 10-foot-long 2”x4” boards, not 12-foot-long, to reduce wasted lumber. Buy drywall that’s cut to fit, and carefully calculate the amount of concrete your slab needs. Also, purchase products with minimal packaging for less paper and plastic waste.

Set up a covered, secure storage area on-site in which to organize all materials and return leftovers before you leave for the day, which will keep them safe from the elements.

2. Salvage

Carefully deconstruct a property rather than fully demolishing it. Walk through the job site with your team before demolition and create a list of what can be salvaged, recycled, or sold, so nothing goes to waste.

For example, collect exterior bricks and natural stone to repurpose for a driveway or patio. Hire a trucking company to haul asphalt and concrete products, metals, and glass to a recycling center. Sell aluminum, steel, and other scraps to a salvage center.

3. Enforce Smart Construction

A lot of waste comes from mistakes when employees cut lumber or pipes incorrectly or damage materials. Hand out a best practice summary to your team to reduce accidents.

Only hire qualified professionals as well. A skilled master electrician will waste fewer parts wiring a home compared to a less-trained general laborer. You’ll create a safer worksite, and informed employees will better adhere to building codes, so nothing has to be taken down and wasted for violations.

Contractors in Pearl City turn to Amazon Construction for their hauling and demolition needs. The company is backed by 30 years of experience and assists with multiple aspects of the construction process, from land clearing and excavating to cleanup. Call (808) 841-6595 to request a free estimate, or see their full scope of work on their website.