How to Recycle Materials After a Demolition Project

Demolition projects are a necessary part of urban development, infrastructure renewal, and property management. Whether tearing down a residential home, a commercial building, or a large-scale industrial facility, demolition generates an immense volume of waste. However, hidden within this rubble is a vast potential for recycling, reuse, and sustainability.

At True North Forming, we believe that a smart demolition strategy doesn't end with the teardown—it continues with responsible disposal and recycling of materials. Recycling not only reduces environmental impact but can also lead to significant cost savings and even revenue generation. In this article, we’ll walk you through the essential steps, materials, and considerations for recycling materials after a demolition project.

Why Recycling After Demolition Matters

1. Environmental Benefits

Construction and demolition (C&D) waste accounts for a significant portion of landfill space. By recycling materials:

• You reduce the demand for virgin resources.

• You prevent harmful materials from leaching into the soil and groundwater.

• You decrease greenhouse gas emissions associated with new material production.
  

2. Cost Savings

Recycling materials on-site or through trusted contractors can significantly lower tipping fees and hauling costs. Some recycled materials may even be sold or reused in future projects.

3. Compliance with Regulations

Many municipalities and provinces across Canada—including Ontario—have enacted policies encouraging or mandating recycling in demolition projects. Staying compliant can save you from legal or financial penalties.

4. Reputation & Corporate Responsibility

Sustainable practices matter to clients, stakeholders, and the broader public. Showing that your company prioritizes recycling can boost brand trust and open new business opportunities.

Step-by-Step: How to Recycle Materials After a Demolition Project

Step 1: Plan Ahead During the Pre-Demolition Phase

Recycling starts before demolition begins.

Conduct a Waste Audit

Bring in a waste audit professional to identify:

• What types of materials will be generated.

• The quantity of each material.

• The potential for reuse or recycling.

Develop a Recycling Plan

Once you know what you’re dealing with, create a detailed plan that outlines:

• Recycling goals (e.g., divert 75% of waste from landfill).

• On-site sorting logistics.

• Designated recycling facilities and haulers.

• Roles and responsibilities for your crew.
  

Identify Hazardous Materials

Some materials—like asbestos, lead paint, or mercury-containing switches—require special handling. Have these materials professionally assessed and removed before general demolition begins.

Step 2: Deconstruct Instead of Demolish (When Feasible)

Deconstruction is the process of carefully dismantling buildings to preserve valuable materials.

Benefits of Deconstruction:

• Maximizes material recovery.

• Reduces breakage and contamination.

• Offers higher resale or reuse value.
  

Common materials salvaged during deconstruction include:

• Structural steel beams.

• Dimensional lumber.

• Bricks and masonry.

• Architectural features (doors, mantels, fixtures).

• Cabinetry and hardwood flooring.

While deconstruction can be more labor-intensive, the benefits often outweigh the added time, especially when materials can be resold or reused on-site.

Step 3: Sort and Separate Materials On-Site

Sorting materials at the source is the most effective way to ensure they’re suitable for recycling.

Create designated zones or bins for:

• Concrete & Asphalt

• Wood

• Metal (ferrous and non-ferrous)

• Bricks and Masonry

• Drywall

• Glass

• Plastics

• Hazardous Waste (stored separately and clearly marked)
  

Label bins and educate all site personnel on the sorting process. Consider assigning a supervisor to ensure compliance and monitor contamination.

Step 4: Know What Can Be Recycled (and Where)

Let’s break down the most common recyclable materials in demolition projects:

1. Concrete and Asphalt

These materials are among the most recycled construction waste.

How they’re recycled:

• Crushed on-site or transported to recycling plants.

• Used as road base, gravel, or aggregate in new concrete.
  

Where to recycle:

• Local concrete recycling centers.

• Provincial or municipal C&D recycling facilities.
  

2. Metals (Steel, Copper, Aluminum, Brass)

Metals hold high resale value and are almost universally recyclable.

How they’re recycled:

• Separated into ferrous and non-ferrous categories.

• Shipped to scrap metal recyclers.

• Melted and reformed into new products.
  

Where to recycle:

• Scrap yards and metal recycling depots.

• Specialized industrial recyclers.
  

3. Wood

Depending on the type and condition, wood can be:

• Reused (dimensional lumber, beams).

• Repurposed (furniture, reclaimed paneling).

• Ground into mulch or biomass fuel.

Avoid recycling painted, treated, or rotted wood, which may pose environmental risks.

4. Bricks and Masonry

Clean bricks can often be:

• Salvaged and reused.

• Crushed into fill or decorative gravel.

Ensure that bricks are not contaminated with mortar or hazardous substances for better recyclability.

5. Drywall (Gypsum Board)

If clean and unpainted, drywall can be:

• Ground into powder.

• Reused in agricultural applications as a soil amendment.

Avoid recycling drywall that contains asbestos or mold.

6. Glass

Glass can be recycled, but requires careful handling to avoid contamination and breakage.

What can be recycled:

• Window panes (if non-laminated).

• Glass partitions and doors.

Tempered and laminated glass often needs specialized recycling due to plastic films.

7. Plastics

Plastics from piping, insulation, and fixtures must be sorted by resin type. Check for recycling codes and consult with local facilities on accepted types (e.g., PVC, HDPE).

8. Roofing Materials

Some roofing shingles (especially asphalt) can be ground up and reused in road paving.

Step 5: Partner With Local Recyclers and Donation Centers

Build relationships with:

• Certified C&D recycling centers.

• Local scrapyards and salvage yards.

• Habitat for Humanity ReStores or other donation hubs.

They can provide bins, pickups, and even offer rebates or payments for recyclable materials.

Step 6: Track, Report, and Improve

Documentation is key to continuous improvement and regulatory compliance.

Keep detailed records of:

• Types and quantities of materials recycled.

• Facilities or vendors used.

• Landfill diversion rates.

Use this data to benchmark future projects and refine your recycling practices.

Tips for Maximizing Recycling Efficiency

Use Equipment That Supports Recycling

Invest in crushers, screeners, and loaders that help with on-site processing and separation.

Train Your Crew

Recycling success starts with your people. Train all site personnel on sorting guidelines, material handling safety, and contamination risks.

Communicate With Stakeholders

Make sure property owners, developers, and architects are aligned with recycling goals from the outset. They may even offer suggestions or require reports post-project.

Integrate Recycling Into the Project Timeline

Allow enough time in your schedule for sorting, deconstruction, and material recovery. Rushed demolitions often lead to mixed waste and lost opportunities.

Final Thoughts

Recycling materials after a demolition project isn’t just a “green” choice—it’s a smart business strategy that benefits your budget, community, and planet. With proper planning, equipment, and partnerships, you can divert a significant portion of C&D waste from landfills and turn yesterday’s buildings into tomorrow’s resources.

If you're planning a demolition in Ontario or across Canada and want to take a sustainable approach, contact True North Forming. Let’s tear down the waste, not the environment.

Want to learn more about sustainable construction practices? Follow the True North Forming Blog for more expert insights and industry updates.