Types of Demolition Debris
Demolition projects generate a diverse mix of materials, each with different disposal requirements:
Heavy Materials
•Concrete: Foundation pieces, sidewalks, driveways
•Brick and block: Walls, chimneys, decorative features
•Asphalt: Driveway and parking lot surfaces
•Stone: Landscaping materials, countertops
Standard Debris
•Wood: Framing, siding, trim, decking
•Drywall: Interior walls and ceilings
•Roofing: Shingles, underlayment, flashing
•Flooring: Carpet, vinyl, tile, hardwood
Metals
•Steel and iron: Structural elements, rebar
•Copper: Plumbing, electrical wiring
•Aluminum: Siding, gutters, window frames
Special Handling Required
•Asbestos: Pre-1980 buildings may contain asbestos
•Lead paint: Homes built before 1978
•Treated lumber: Pressure-treated wood products
Dumpster Recommendations by Project
Interior Demolition
For gutting rooms or removing non-structural elements:
•15-yard dumpster: Sufficient for most single-room projects
•20-yard dumpster: Multiple rooms or extensive drywall removal
Exterior Demolition
For decks, sheds, or outbuildings:
•15-yard dumpster: Small shed or single deck
•20-yard dumpster: Large decks, multiple structures
Full Structure Demolition
For complete building demolition:
•Multiple 20-yard dumpsters: Scheduled swap-outs
•Heavy debris dumpster: Separate container for concrete/masonry
•Consider 904 Dumpster's full demolition services
Working with Heavy Materials
Concrete, brick, and other masonry require special consideration:
Weight Limits
Heavy materials can easily exceed dumpster weight limits:
•Concrete weighs approximately 150 lbs per cubic foot
•A small 10-yard dumpster loaded 1/4 full with concrete = 3,500+ lbs
Best Practices
1.Request a "heavy debris" dumpster designed for masonry
2.Keep heavy materials in a separate container from general debris
3.Load heavy items on the bottom, distributed evenly
4.Never exceed the fill line, regardless of weight
Cost Considerations
Heavy material disposal often costs more per ton than general debris. Separating materials can reduce overall costs.
Jacksonville Demolition Permits
Before starting any demolition project in Jacksonville/Duval County:
When Permits Are Required
•Demolition of any structure over 120 square feet
•Removal of load-bearing walls
•Any work affecting utilities
•Projects in historic districts
How to Obtain Permits
1.Contact the City of Jacksonville Building Inspection Division
2.Submit demolition plans and permit application
3.Schedule required inspections
4.Display permit on site during work
Utility Disconnection
Before demolition:
•Contact JEA for electric and water disconnection
•Notify gas company if applicable
•Confirm all utilities are properly capped
Environmental Considerations
Asbestos Testing
Buildings constructed before 1980 may contain asbestos in:
•Floor tiles and adhesives
•Insulation
•Roofing materials
•Siding and shingles
•Ceiling tiles
Requirement: Florida law requires asbestos testing before demolition of structures built before 1980.
Lead Paint
Homes built before 1978 may contain lead paint:
•Hire certified contractors for lead abatement
•Follow EPA RRP (Renovation, Repair, and Painting) rules
•Proper disposal of lead-contaminated materials
Storm Water Protection
Demolition sites must prevent sediment runoff:
•Install silt fencing around the perimeter
•Cover soil piles during rain
•Sweep streets to prevent debris entering storm drains
Working with 904 Dumpster on Demolition Projects
We support demolition projects throughout Jacksonville with:
•Flexible dumpster scheduling: Swap-outs when containers fill
•Heavy debris options: Containers rated for concrete and masonry
•Demolition services: Full-service demolition available
•Permit guidance: Help navigating local requirements
Call (904) 240-5598 to discuss your demolition project and get a customized waste management plan.
