Is Plasterboard Hazardous Waste?
In the UK, we use millions of square metres of plasterboard every year. From domestic construction projects to commercial ones, it’s a key building material that you may not have
given much thought to previously.
Plasterboard is also a contentious item when it comes to disposing of any waste though. It is not hazardous waste, as some might suggest, and is actually classified as being non-
hazardous. So, with this in mind, why do some companies not collect it?
At Reston Waste, we do accept plasterboard waste with some specific rules (which you can read more about below), but we thought it would be useful to give a brief overview of what it
is, why some don’t accept it, and how you should be disposing of it.
What is plasterboard?
Plasterboard is essentially a substance known as gypsum (hydrated calcium sulphate) pressed between two layers of lining paper to create solid boards. Gypsum is a material that
has to be quarried before being ground up for use.
Plasterboard is used in almost all construction projects, allowing for walls and ceilings to be created that are smooth and level. Many use this as an alternative to full plastering as it can
be quicker and easier to install.
Why can’t I fill a skip with plasterboard?
Often, most skip hire companies will refuse to accept a skip-load of plasterboard due to it being banned in landfill sites since 2005 in England. However, at Reston Waste, we can
accept your plasterboard in our skips with the following directions:
● Less than 10% – If the contents of your skip are going to be less than 10%
plasterboard, you should pre-arrange this with our team. You can then bag the
plasterboard and place it on the top of the skip or bin before collection.
● More than 10% – This will mean you have to book a skip solely for your plasterboard.
Once filled, we can come and collect this separated plasterboard for appropriate
disposal.
The reason plasterboard has been banned from landfill sites is due to the gypsum that it contains. Gypsum, when in contact with moisture – either water or biodegradable items –
releases hydrogen sulphide, a toxic gas that is not only unpleasant but can be dangerous.
Where the reaction between moisture and gypsum occurs (sometimes called putrefaction), there can be a dangerous build-up of hydrogen sulphide. This can lead to corrosion and
burning, and can even be explosive if not dealt with properly.
How to properly dispose of plasterboard
In order to properly dispose of plasterboard, you need a trusted and licensed waste carrier. You should never put it in your general household waste, nor should you mix it into a skip
with all your other waste.
Instead, you need to contact your local skip hire company and explain that you have plasterboard to dispose of. When you book with us at Reston Waste, we’ll find out how much
plasterboard you have and then guide you on which service you need in order to safely dispose of it.
If you’re unsure of how to get rid of any quantity of plasterboard, don’t hesitate to contact us and we’ll be happy to advise you.
Is plasterboard recyclable?
If your plasterboard is separated from other waste types, then it is possible to recycle it. Much of the plasterboard we use and then throw away in the UK can be recycled, grinding it
down to be used again as a raw material. Not only would this prevent the issues we touched upon earlier in this piece, but it would also reduce the amount of quarrying required to
produce new plasterboard — something that would help the environment in many ways.
Do you have plasterboard you need to dispose of? Whether you’re tackling some renovation work at home or you run a construction and demolition company, look no further than Reston
Waste. Providing dedicated skip hire and waste removal for your plasterboard in London – including West, South West, South East and Central London – we ensure it is safely
disposed of for your peace of mind.
Don’t waste time with other waste companies, get a professional service from our knowledgeable team today. Call and book your skip or waste removal slot now.
