5 Smart Ways to Dispose of Old Bricks for Recycling

Helder Gouveia
6 days ago
4 min read

Demolishing a wall or tearing up an old patio often leaves one nagging question: what do I do with all these bricks? Most people don’t realize that bricks are 100% recyclable, yet thousands of tons end up in landfills every year. Whether you're a homeowner, contractor, or DIY enthusiast, learning how to dispose of old bricks the right way not only saves you money—it benefits the environment and may even spark new project ideas.

In this blog, you'll discover the top 5 smartest ways to dispose of bricks for recycling, what not to do, and where to go if you're looking to clear your site responsibly. Let’s break it down, brick by brick.

How to Dispose of Old Bricks for Recycling: Your Top 5 Options

1. Donate Usable Bricks to Local Charities or Community Projects

If your bricks are clean, intact, and free of mortar, they’re likely reusable. Local charities, schools, and non-profits often accept leftover construction materials for landscaping or small renovations.

Great places to start:

Pro Tip: Always call ahead to check donation guidelines—some centers require pre-cleaned materials or limit the quantity per drop-off.

For local pickups, you can explore our junk removal services that include responsible donation handling.

Man in denim shirt loading bricks onto a blue truck near a building with a Habitat for Humanity sign. Focused expression, green bushes nearby. — A volunteer organizes bricks from a truck bed at a Habitat for Humanity site, gearing up for a community building project.

2. Take Old Bricks to a Recycling Center

Bricks are made of clay and shale—natural materials that can be crushed and reused in new construction, landscaping, or road base layers.

Look for:

Construction and demolition (C&D) recycling centers
City-run waste transfer stations
Landscaping supply companies that accept used materials

Use the Recycling Council of Ontario search tool to locate a nearby recycling facility.

Need a hand delivering your bricks? Our construction debris removal service handles the hauling for you.

3. Hire a Junk Removal Service with a Brick Recycling Policy

If you have large quantities of bricks and limited time or resources, hiring a junk removal company that recycles is a game-changer. Many modern services now offer eco-friendly disposal options, ensuring that your bricks are diverted from landfills and reused in future projects.

What to look for:

Proof of diversion rate (how much waste they recycle vs. landfill)
Companies with LEED-certified or eco-conscious practices
Services with on-site pickup and loading

Estimated cost: $200–$500 per load depending on volume and location.

Book your eco-friendly junk pickup today and ask about our recycling policy.

Two workers load bricks and furniture into a truck on a sunny street. One wears an orange vest, the other a blue shirt. — Workers efficiently sort and load construction materials and debris for recycling in a residential area, promoting sustainability and environmental care.

4. Repurpose Bricks for DIY Projects

Recycling doesn't always mean hauling things away. If your bricks are in good shape, consider using them to enhance your own property. Creative reuse is budget-friendly and deeply satisfying.

Ideas for repurposing bricks:

Garden paths and flower bed edging
Raised garden beds or planters
Backyard fire pits
Mailbox or signage bases
Patio or BBQ area borders

Need inspiration? Check out Family Handyman’s upcycling ideas.

5. Dispose of Broken Bricks at Approved Facilities Only

For bricks that are broken, dirty, or covered in mortar, you may not be able to donate them. But don’t toss them in your regular trash. These are still recyclable—but must go to specialized facilities.

Best disposal practices for broken bricks:

Separate from general construction waste
Bag small debris to reduce dust
Avoid mixing with hazardous materials like asbestos or treated wood

Warning: Dumping bricks illegally can result in fines of $500 to $5,000 depending on local bylaws. Always verify with your municipal waste authority. For example, the City of Toronto’s Solid Waste guidelines cover acceptable materials and fees.

Yellow sign with text "Dispose of broken bricks at approved facilities only," featuring images of bricks, arrows, and a factory. — Sign indicating the proper disposal of broken bricks at designated facilities, with an arrow pointing towards an industrial area.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I put bricks in my curbside recycling bin?

No. Bricks are classified as construction waste and require special handling. Curbside bins are for plastics, paper, and small household recyclables only.

How many bricks can I donate at once?

It depends on the organization. Habitat ReStore usually accepts bulk donations if the bricks are stacked on pallets and pre-cleaned.

Do I need a permit to haul bricks to a recycling depot?

Not usually for residential drop-offs. However, commercial haulers may require a permit or pre-approval.

Are recycled bricks cheaper than new ones?

Yes. Recycled bricks often cost 30–50% less than new bricks, making them an attractive option for cost-conscious builders and homeowners.

Conclusion

Disposing of old bricks doesn’t have to be a burden. Whether you donate, recycle, hire a removal service, or repurpose them into something beautiful, the options are plentiful—and smart. Not only will you be keeping waste out of landfills, but you’ll also be contributing to a circular economy and potentially inspiring others to do the same.

So next time you find yourself staring at a pile of leftover bricks, don’t just dump them—do something smart, sustainable, and possibly even profitable.