Frequently Asked Questions: Paint Disposal and Recycling
1. Do You Accept Liquid Paint?
Answer: Yes, we accept liquid paint as long as it is standard house paint and has not been mixed with any other substances. We do not accept paint containing lead or mercury.
2. How Do You Charge for Paint Disposal?
Answer: Our charges are based on the container size of the paint. This flat rate method accounts for the fact that most cans contain only a partial amount of paint, ensuring efficiency and fairness.
3. Can I Dispose of Old Paint?
Answer: Absolutely! We accept old paint provided it is standard house paint, not mixed with other substances, and free of lead or mercury.
4. How Long Can Paint Last?
Answer: The lifespan of paint depends on storage conditions. Properly stored in a cool, dry place, paint can last up to 10 years. However, under less ideal conditions, its lifespan may be much shorter.
5. What Happens to the Collected Paint?
Answer: The paint undergoes various processes based on its condition and market demand. This includes recycling, donation, sale, solidification, energy recovery, or other disposal methods.
6. How Much Does Paint Disposal Cost?
Answer: The cost varies depending on whether you choose our pickup service or use one of our partnered drop-off locations.
7. Why Isn't Paint Disposal Free?
Answer: Paint disposal involves significant costs for collection, transport, and processing. These operations are necessary to ensure environmentally responsible disposal.
8. What Should I Do with Dry Paint?
Answer: Generally, dried paint can be treated as regular household garbage. Check with your trash company for specific requirements, such as removing the lid to demonstrate the paint is dry.
9. Can I Put Paint in My Regular Trash Can?
Answer: Only if the paint is completely dry. If it contains any liquid, it should not be disposed of in regular trash. Contact your garbage company for specific guidelines.
10. Can I Mix All My Paint Together for Disposal?
Answer: No, we cannot accept paint that has been mixed with other substances, including other paints.
11. How to Identify if My Paint is Latex or Oil-Based?
Answer: Check the cleanup instructions – soap and water indicate water-based paint, while mineral spirits or paint thinner suggest oil-based. Warning labels and ingredient lists can also provide clues. For further assistance, feel free to contact us.
12. Where Can I Recycle Other Items?
Answer: Websites like Earth911.com and 1800Recycling.com are great resources. A simple Google search can also direct you to appropriate recycling facilities.