Can you put plasterboard in a skip?

The short answer

Not in our skips. Plasterboard contains gypsum, which must be kept apart from other waste, so D J Recycling does not accept it. Take it to a recycling centre that accepts plasterboard, such as Worthing or Shoreham, where up to 200kg is allowed.

Why plasterboard is kept separate

The core of each board is gypsum. When gypsum is mixed with ordinary waste in landfill, it can break down and release hydrogen sulphide, a toxic gas that smells of rotten eggs. That is why the rules say it must be collected and recycled on its own.

Once separated, gypsum is recycled into new plasterboard, so very little of it goes to waste.

How to dispose of plasterboard

• Recycling centre: Worthing and Shoreham-by-Sea recycling centres take plasterboard and gypsum, up to 200kg. Check the West Sussex County Council website for current rules and any charges before you go.
• Your builder: if a builder or plasterer is doing the work, ask them to remove the offcuts. Most have a separate route for it.
• A specialist service: for large amounts, use a company that offers a dedicated plasterboard skip or bag.

Planning a refit with a skip?

Book your skip for everything else, and stack the boards to one side as the work goes on. Old tiles, timber, flooring, packaging and kitchen units can all go in the skip. Keeping it out from the start saves sorting through a full skip later.

Not sure what is in a wall or ceiling? Some older boards and textured coatings can contain asbestos. If in doubt, get it checked before you start.

Common questions

Can I put plasterboard in a general waste skip?

Not with us. Plasterboard must be kept separate from general waste, so we do not take it in any of our skips.

How do I get rid of plasterboard?

Take it to a recycling centre that accepts plasterboard, such as Worthing or Shoreham, or ask your builder to remove it. Larger amounts need a specialist plasterboard service.

Why can plasterboard not go in landfill with other waste?

Gypsum mixed with other waste can release hydrogen sulphide gas, which is toxic and smells of rotten eggs. Separating it lets it be recycled into new plasterboard.

Can you burn plasterboard?

No. It should never be burned. The paper facing burns but the gypsum does not, and it can give off harmful fumes.

What else can go in my skip during a refit?

Timber, tiles, flooring, carpet, packaging, old kitchen units and general rubbish can all go in. Rubble and hardcore must go in a 2 or 4-yard skip.