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What To Do with Old Drywall

Drywall, also known as plasterboard, has long been a staple in the construction industry, offering cost-effective, easy installation for building interior walls and ceilings. Over time, as we renovate or demolish structures, we often end up with old, seemingly unusable drywall. So what can we do with old drywall?

TL;DR: The best practice for dealing with old drywall is to repurpose, recycle, or dispose of it responsibly to mitigate environmental impacts.

With this in mind, let’s dive deeper into the various steps and techniques you can use to handle old drywall responsibly.

The Importance of Responsible Drywall Disposal

When old drywall ends up in landfills, it poses several environmental problems. Gypsum, a major component of drywall, can leach into soil and water bodies, causing significant harm. The environmental impact of irresponsible drywall disposal is one reason many municipalities have strict regulations surrounding its disposal.

Environmental Impact of Drywall

Drywall, or gypsum board, is composed mostly of gypsum – a naturally occurring mineral – and paper. While it is non-toxic and generally safe, it’s essential to consider the environmental implications when disposing of it irresponsibly.

From researching construction waste management, I can confirm that irresponsible drywall disposal has far-reaching effects on the environment, from soil contamination to methane gas production.

Soil and Water Contamination

The primary environmental concern with improperly disposed drywall is the leaching of gypsum into the soil and groundwater. According to a study published in Waste Management Journal in 2008, when drywall degrades in landfills, it forms hydrogen sulfide gas under anaerobic conditions (no oxygen).

This gas not only produces a foul smell but is also toxic at high concentrations.Furthermore, the leaching of gypsum can alter soil and water chemistry, potentially leading to a harmful algal bloom, as indicated by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Algal blooms can cause oxygen depletion in water bodies, harming aquatic life.

Methane Production

Drywall in landfills can also lead to the production of methane gas, a potent greenhouse gas. A research paper published in the Journal of Environmental Quality in 2012 highlighted that organic carbon present in the paper facer and backer of drywall can decompose under landfill conditions to form methane.

Methane’s global warming potential is 28-36 times higher than that of carbon dioxide over 100 years, as stated by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC).

Waste Management Issue

Drywall waste is a significant part of construction and demolition debris. The Construction & Demolition Recycling Association (CDRA) estimates that construction sites in the United States generate over 7 million tons of drywall waste each year, adding significant pressure to our already strained waste management systems.

Repurposing Old Drywall

Firstly, it’s essential to note that drywall can be effectively repurposed. If the old drywall is still in reasonably good condition, I recommend considering these repurposing options:

  • Patchwork: Small pieces can be used for patching holes or cracks in existing walls.
  • Gardening: Crushed drywall makes an excellent soil amendment, especially for clay soils, improving its texture and providing calcium.

Remember, it’s crucial to only repurpose drywall that is free from paint, wallpaper, or other potential contaminants.

Recycling Old Drywall

According to a 2017 study by the Construction & Demolition Recycling Association (CDRA), nearly 40% of all construction waste came from drywall. That’s over 7 million tons of drywall waste annually, a significant amount that can be reduced through recycling.

Several facilities accept old drywall for recycling, where it’s processed back into raw gypsum and used to produce new drywall or other gypsum products. It might be worthwhile to consider contacting your local recycling facility to find out if they accept drywall.

Responsible Disposal of Old Drywall

When repurposing or recycling isn’t possible, responsible disposal is the next best option. A useful suggestion would be to hire a professional waste management company that can dispose of the drywall in accordance with local regulations.

Steps to Dispose of Drywall Responsibly

  1. Check Local Regulations: First, verify the rules and regulations in your area about drywall disposal.
  2. Hire a Waste Management Company: Find a reputable company that handles construction waste, including drywall.
  3. Prepare the Drywall: Prepare the drywall for disposal according to the company’s specifications.
  4. Schedule a Pickup: Coordinate a pickup date and time with the waste management company.

Other Tips and Information

Remember that drywall with mold or asbestos should be treated differently. In these cases, you must consult professionals as these materials pose significant health risks if not handled correctly.

Upcycling Drywall into new projects

Upcycling or creatively reusing old drywall can be a great way to give it a new life while reducing waste. Here are some innovative ways you can upcycle old drywall:

  • Home Repair Projects: Old drywall pieces can be used for patching holes and cracks in walls or ceilings. They are especially handy for minor home repair projects.
  • Art and Craft Projects: If you’re a creative soul, drywall can be a unique canvas for art projects. It can be painted on, carved into, or otherwise decorated to create art pieces.
  • Garden Improvements: Crushed gypsum from drywall can improve your garden’s soil, especially clay soils, by adding needed calcium and improving soil structure.
  • Building Homemade Furniture: Drywall pieces can be used in building small furniture or home accessories. For instance, you can create a simple shelf, a side table, or even a dollhouse.
  • Construction Learning Tool: If you have children interested in architecture or construction, drywall pieces can be used as a learning tool. They can build, experiment and learn with this material under adult supervision.

In Conclusion

Old drywall doesn’t have to be a burden. Whether you choose to repurpose, recycle, or responsibly dispose of it, there are plenty of ways to handle old drywall that benefit both you and the environment.

By practicing sustainable methods, we can reduce waste, conserve resources, and create a healthier planet.

FAQ

Can I throw old drywall in my regular trash?

No, due to the environmental impact and local regulations, drywall should not be disposed of in regular trash.

Is old drywall hazardous?

Old drywall itself is not hazardous, but if it contains mold or asbestos, it can be harmful and should be handled by professionals.

Can all recycling centers accept old drywall?

No, not all recycling centers accept old drywall. It’s essential to call your local facility to confirm.

Can painted or wallpapered drywall be recycled?

It depends on the recycling center, but generally, painted or wallpapered drywall is harder to recycle due to the difficulty of separating the materials.

Author

  • Jen Wheeler

    Jen Wheeler, co-founder of Recycling-Revolution.com, holds degrees from UC Berkeley, Yale, and Stanford. A renowned environmentalist, she's championed sustainable practices at global events and leads EcoBright Solutions, focusing on recycling education and eco-friendly products.

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