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How to Recycle Wood Floors (Top 3 Ways 2022)

Updated January 14, 2022 By Katie Barton

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how to recycle wood floors

Getting new floors is exciting, especially when it’s a purchase you’ve been thinking about and saving for over a long period. But as exciting as fixing your old wood floors can be, throwing them out seems like a waste.

So, what are you supposed to do with the hardwoods you’re tearing out?

If you’re looking for a better way to get rid of your old flooring, here’s how to recycle wood floors.

Can I Recycle Wood Floors?

Contents

  • 1 Can I Recycle Wood Floors?
  • 2 The Top 3 Ways to Recycle Wood Flooring
    • 2.1 Take the Wood to a Recycling Center
    • 2.2 Reuse the Wood for Projects
    • 2.3 Donate Your Old Hardwood Flooring
  • 3 Frequently Asked Questions
    • 3.1 Can I burn old hardwood flooring?
    • 3.2 How much does it cost to remove old hardwood floors?
    • 3.3 Can I sell my old hardwood flooring?
  • 4 Conclusion
    • 4.1 Related Posts:

Yes, there are many ways to recycle or reuse wood floors. Most recycling centers accept wood, and a quick Google search can help you find a facility near you. If you can’t find a recycling center, you can donate your flooring to salvagers, Habitat for Humanity, or list it for free on Craigslist. 

The Top 3 Ways to Recycle Wood Flooring

Take the Wood to a Recycling Center

Wood is a highly recyclable material. While you can’t toss wood in your recycling bins for pickup, you can usually bring it to your local recycling facility.

You can use the site Earth911 to search for a facility near you. You can filter your search to find facilities that take construction material like old hardwood flooring.

Reuse the Wood for Projects

If you’re crafty, hang on to your wood floors and use them for projects. There are so many different ways to use wood planks. Here are just a few ideas:

  • Top for a bench
  • Picture frames
  • Shelving
  • Countertops
  • Signs
  • Accent walls
  • Cabinet refacing

Different types and widths of hardwood will be suitable for different kinds of projects. For example, wide plank flooring can be great for cabinet refacing, while thinner width floors are ideal for making picture frames.

For inspiration, search these ideas on Pinterest.

Donate Your Old Hardwood Flooring

If your floors are still in good condition, consider donating them. Many families and organizations would be happy to take the flooring off your hands. Professional salvagers may even remove the flooring for you in exchange for keeping it (depending on the value of your floors.)

Here are some ideas for donating your old hardwood flooring:

Give to Habitat for Humanity – Habitat for Humanity is a nonprofit organization that helps homeowners build their houses. They also have a “Re-store” where they sell previously used household items and construction materials cheaply. Most of the Re-stores accept used hardwood flooring.

List for Free on Craigslist or Facebook Marketplace – If you want to pass your flooring to someone local, list your wood floors on Facebook Marketplace or Craigslist. This is an excellent way to get rid of it quickly.

Contact a Salvage Company – If your floors are already out, contact local salvage companies. Many will be interested in picking up your old floors if they are still in good condition.

Frequently Asked Questions

faq how to recycle wood flooring

Can I burn old hardwood flooring?

If your hardwood flooring is finished or painted, you’ll want to avoid burning it since it can release toxic fumes. If the wood has no finish, it’s safe to burn. 

Instead of using the flooring as firewood, consider dropping it off at a recycling center or donating it to an organization.

How much does it cost to remove old hardwood floors?

It costs anywhere from $1.25 to $4.33 per square foot to have hardwood flooring professionally removed. This means you’ll be paying anywhere from $250 to $866 for a 200 square foot room.

Prices vary depending on where you live. You should get 3-5 estimates before choosing a contractor to work with.

Can I sell my old hardwood flooring?

If you can remove your floors without damaging them, then yes, you can sell your hardwood flooring. However, you shouldn’t expect to bring in the big bucks. Since many people give away their old flooring for free, your floors probably won’t command much money.

Conclusion

Don’t take your wood to the dump! There are many ways to recycle your wood flooring that are just as easy (or easier) than throwing it out. Find a local recycling center, donate your floors, or put your craft skills to the test and reuse those floorboards.

Related Posts:

  • How to Transition Wood Flooring Between Rooms
    How to Transition Wood Flooring Between Rooms
  • How to Match Hardwood Floors (Top 3 Ways)
    How to Match Hardwood Floors (Top 3 Ways)
  • How to Rehydrate Wood Floors - Top 3 Ways
    How to Rehydrate Wood Floors - Top 3 Ways
  • How to Transition Between Two Different Wood Floors
    How to Transition Between Two Different Wood Floors
  • Removing Nails from Wood [Quick and Easy]
    Removing Nails from Wood [Quick and Easy]
  • How to Mop Wood Floors (Without Damaging Them)
    How to Mop Wood Floors (Without Damaging Them)

Filed Under: How To/Tips

About Katie Barton

Katie Barton lives with her husband and three daughters in an 1800’s style log cabin in southern Ohio. She thinks cleaning is relaxing and is considered the organizing go-to person by her family and friends. She runs the blog Cabin Lane where she shares about cleaning, decluttering, and minimalism.
See full biography here.

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