How to Minimize Wastage During the Construction of Houses

Construction waste accounts for a large percentage of the total waste generated in the United States (estimated at 15 to 20 percent). With recent initiatives to reduce waste and a trend to be more environmentally conscious in building practices, waste minimization best practices have emerged across the country. Not only does waste minimization help the environment, but it also can provide a substantial savings on home construction projects by reducing the amount of materials required for the project.

Instructions

1. Review the architectural plan set for any potential for material overlap. Schedule a meeting with your architect and general contractor to review the approved construction drawings. Try to identify building materials that can be reused throughout the project to reduce the various types of materials used. Make substitutions if necessary so that you are using the fewest materials possible. For example, if you have three counter spaces in the project that were originally all different types of stone, change the design so that they are all now the same. This will eliminate waste, because you will only have waste from cutting one type of material rather than all three.

2. Take detailed takeoffs (quantity assessments) of materials from the plan set. Work with your architect and engineer to develop takeoff quantities from the plan set for each type of material required. These quantities can later be passed to the subcontractor to ensure they do not order more than required. Your architect will be most familiar with the plan set, so they can best develop these take off quantities.

3. Monitor construction activity. Make sure to inform your superintendent and foremen about the waste-minimization requirement. Instruct them to monitor the workers' use of materials. Ensure that large pieces of material are not thrown away if they can be used elsewhere on the project. Ensure that unnecessary rework is not occurring. Ensure that measurements and dimensions are verified before cutting material to size.

4. Scan garbage piles before disposal. Establish a procedure where you or an appointed worker will examine all garbage piles before they are hauled away from the site. Make sure pieces of reusable material are not present in the pile. Pull out any material that can be salvaged or installed on the project.

5. Recycle. At the completion of the project, save any leftover materials for your next home construction. When designing the next home, make sure you select similar type materials so they can be recycled into the project. If you are not planning on constructing another home, offer to sell the material to another home builder or general contractor.

Tips & Warnings

• Controlling material ordering and disposal is key. Often, it is easier for subcontractors to order more than required and dispose or material that is not perfect for use. Make sure to monitor this activity and provide instruction/guidance.