Keep unlike materials separate when you can. A visible pile of clean wood, a container for metal and a separate mixed-waste area give the hauler better information and help route material under local facility rules.
Start with four groups
| Group | Keep out |
|---|---|
| Clean wood | Painted, treated or contaminated pieces |
| Metal | Sealed tanks, hazardous containers and mixed trash |
| Drywall | Suspect asbestos or lead-containing material |
| Mixed debris | Liquids, chemicals, batteries and unknown waste |
Why the groups matter
Seattle bans several readily recyclable construction materials from ordinary disposal, including metal, concrete, clean untreated wood, cardboard and new gypsum scrap. King County also directs mixed construction and demolition loads to designated facilities and applies vehicle and piece-size restrictions at its transfer stations.
Do not guess about suspect material
Stop and identify insulation, siding, flooring, roofing or other material that could contain asbestos or another hazard. Keep dusty or unknown material out of the ordinary pickup pile until acceptance and handling are confirmed.
Need help with construction debris removal?
Review the working scope, then call with photos and access details.
See Construction Debris Removal