Post-Renovation Cleanup: What to Do With All That Construction Debris
Finished a renovation in Boise and drowning in debris? Here is how to handle construction waste cleanup — from drywall scraps to lumber to old fixtures.
You survived the renovation. The new kitchen looks amazing. But your driveway is piled with drywall scraps, old cabinets, torn-out flooring, and enough lumber to build a small fort.
Now what?
Types of Construction Debris
Not all construction waste is the same, and that matters for disposal. Here's what typically comes out of a home renovation:
- Heavy materials:
- Concrete, brick, and stone
- Tile and ceramic
- Old countertops (especially granite or solid surface)
- Bulky materials:
- Drywall and plaster
- Lumber and framing
- Old cabinets and vanities
- Doors and windows
- Mixed waste:
- Carpet and padding
- Vinyl and laminate flooring
- Insulation
- General packaging from new materials
Each type may need different disposal methods. Concrete goes to one facility, wood to another, and mixed waste to the landfill.
Your Cleanup Options
Option 1: Dumpster Rental
A popular choice for ongoing projects. Rent a dumpster, fill it up, and they haul it away.
- Pros:
- Good for multi-week projects
- Fill at your own pace
- Multiple sizes available (10-40 yard)
- Cons:
- Need driveway or yard space
- Rental periods add up ($300-$600/week)
- Weight limits can surprise you
- HOAs may restrict placement
Option 2: Professional Debris Removal
This is where a crew comes, loads everything, and takes it away. No dumpster sitting in your driveway.
- Pros:
- Same-day or next-day service
- No lifting on your part
- No driveway space needed
- Materials get sorted for recycling
- Cons:
- Costs more than a dumpster for very large projects
- Requires scheduling
Option 3: Haul It Yourself
Rent a truck, load up, and drive to the dump.
- Pros:
- Cheapest option (if your time is free)
- Complete control
- Cons:
- Multiple trips for large projects
- Landfill fees add up ($40-$80 per load)
- Physical labor
- Your truck gets trashed
What Contractors Should Handle
If you hired a contractor for your renovation, debris removal should be in the contract. Seriously—check your paperwork.
Most reputable contractors include cleanup in their bid. If they didn't, that's a conversation to have before the project starts, not after.
That said, some homeowners DIY portions of a renovation and end up with debris the contractor didn't create. That's when you call us.
Recycling Construction Materials
A surprising amount of renovation debris can be recycled or reused:
We sort materials during construction debris cleanup to keep as much out of the landfill as possible.
Typical Costs in Boise
For a standard kitchen or bathroom renovation cleanup:
Whole-house renovations generate more debris and costs scale accordingly. A full gut-and-remodel can produce 5-10 tons of material.
Don't Let Debris Sit
Here's one tip: don't let construction debris sit for weeks. Rain turns drywall into mush. Wood absorbs moisture and gets heavier. Neighbors get annoyed. And some cities have ordinances about how long debris can sit on a property.
Get it handled while the momentum is there.
Need Construction Debris Removed?
Call (208) 593-2877 or get a free estimate. We'll get your property back to normal.
Need Help With Construction Cleanup?
Top Shelf serves Boise and the Treasure Valley with professional junk removal, cleanouts, and demolition services.