For homeowners or contractors planning to remove sheds, decks, or aging structures, October and November are prime months to do demolition. The weather is often more forgiving, materials are drier, and San Juan Transfer Station stands ready to help you manage demolition debris efficiently and responsibly.

Why Demolition in October–November Works

• Weather window: Cooler, dryer days allow safer exterior work before winter’s onset.
• Fewer yard‐waste loads: Less congestion at tipping bays compared to peak seasons.
• Dry materials: Wood, siding, metal, and fixtures are lighter and less messy when dry.
• Clean slate: Clear away structures in fall so your site is ready for spring plans.

What Materials Are Accepted at the Transfer Station:

• Wood (non-treated or painted)for recycling.
• Scrap metal: flashings, pipe, fasteners, etc.
• Appliances & fixtures: refrigerators, freezers, dehumidifiers, etc. (with flat fees)
• Paint & coatings via PaintCare drop-off (limit 5 gallons per trip)
• E-waste (TVs, monitors, computers) free under E-Cycle programs
• Recycling and regular refuse (metals, plastics, wood) if they meet station standards.

Prohibited or restricted items include treated wood, asbestos siding, lead paint materials, or heavily contaminated debris—check with staff ahead of time.

Preparing Your Demolition Load

1. Sort by material. Wood, metal, appliances, and mixed debris should be separated.
2. Deconstruct methodically. Salvage wood, remove glass or hardware, and minimize mixed waste.
3. Bundle and cut. Tie long pieces into 4–6 ft bundles; flatten siding or panels.
4. Wrap/dust control. Cover loose fragments and debris to prevent scattering.
5. Label demolition loads. Indicate “demolition debris” so staff can route your load correctly.

Pricing:

• Clean woody debris & brush: $323.40 per ton
• Scrap metal: $294 per ton
• Appliances: $62 per unit for many household items

Loads are typically weighed at the scale; container loads may be accepted depending on size. For major project hauls, contact the station in advance to coordinate “special hours” or bulk drop-off allowances.

Safety & Compliance

Wear protective gear—gloves, goggles, dust masks, long sleeves—especially when handling insulation, sharp metal, or drywall. Keep nails and protruding edges secure, and segregate any hazardous materials like ACM (asbestos) or lead-based siding for special disposal.

Timing & Drop-Off Tips

Use station hours (Friday–Sunday, 9 AM to 4 PM; Monday 9 AM to noon) and aim for mornings to avoid ferry or midday congestion. Announce your load as “demolition debris” to make sure attendants guide you to the right bay.

Sample Fall Demolition Schedule

Week	Activities
Mid October	Tear down decks, sheds, or exterior framing
Late October	Sort materials and prep for hauling
Early November	Transport debris during dry weather windows

Why This Approach Benefits Everyone

By sorting and recycling demolition materials, you help conserve landfill capacity, reduce hauling costs, and support sustainability on the island. Metals, wood, and appliances diverted from trash save money and reduce environmental impact.

If you’re planning a fall demolition, approach it methodically—sort your materials, wrap your loads, schedule your drop-off, and lean on San Juan Transfer Station’s services. With informed preparation, you’ll clear your site effectively and responsibly before the winter weather arrives.