Letting a yard go unattended for extended periods of time, or even years, is unavoidable sometimes.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nWhether you're helping an elderly family member or neighbor who is unable to maintain their yard throughout the seasons, or you're buying a foreclosed home with a wild backyard, cleaning up an abandoned yard is not an uncommon project and it doesn't have to take a ton of time.
\r\n
In this guide, we'll outline the benefits of having a well-maintained lawn, a few of the most common yard waste removal and disposal methods, and tips for getting the project done with minimal stress and time.
\r\n\r\n![\"infographic](\"/static/ba82126ad594b3d87a9ed725445b274f/cleaning-up-abandoned-yard-infographic_0.png\")
\r\nA well-groomed lawn with appropriate landscaping sets the tone for your home and gives you and your family and friends a beautiful place to gather and be outside.
\r\n\r\nImproving a home's lawn is also one of the most cost-effective ways to increase your property's overall value.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nLandscaping can provide a 100%-200% return on investment and can even increase your home's value by as much as 15%.
\r\n
An abandoned, overgrown, or debris-riddled yard can also pose a safety hazard by making it harder to see hidden trip hazards or sharp objects, attracting pests, increasing allergies, and even negatively impacting mental health.
\r\n\r\nThe many benefits of a healthy lawn and yard should not be underestimated, so if your yard or the yard of a neighbor or loved one has become overgrown and unkempt, plan a yard cleanup day to get it back in tip-top shape.
\r\n\r\nKeep reading:
\r\n\r\nYard waste cleanup projects produce quite a bit of debris, and one of the most efficient and inexpensive ways to manage said debris is by renting a temporary dumpster.
\r\n\r\nDumpsters are a great option because they come in a number of different sizes:
\r\n\r\nNo matter how big or small your yard cleanup project is, there is a dumpster size to accommodate a) the volume of debris you have without overfilling it, and b) the weight of your debris without exceeding the dumpster's weight limit.
\r\n\r\nA 10 or 20 yard dumpster is big enough to handle most yard waste disposal projects, like disposing of leaves, fallen branches, brush, limbs, and other landscaping waste.
\r\n\r\nIf you're disposing of generally lightweight items, like leaves and branches, you likely won't be at risk of exceeding your dumpster's included weight limit.
\r\n\r\nHowever, if you have tree stumps, large amounts of soil, bricks, or other heavy rubble, be sure you rent a dumpster that can accommodate the weight of your debris.
\r\n\r\nEvery yard cleanup project is different, but an experienced dumpster rental company will be able to help you determine which dumpster size best suits your project based on the information you provide them.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nThe cost to rent a 10 or 20 yard dumpster for yard debris is $250-$450 on average, but this cost varies by location, availability, dumpster size, who you rent from, and local landfill fees.
\r\n
If you are \"clean loading\" yard waste into your dumpster, you may be able to pay a discounted price, so discuss this with the dumpster companies you speak to.
\r\n\r\nThe dumpster rental process is simple:
\r\n\r\nAt Hometown, we make it easy to find local dumpster rental companies, read customer reviews, and request dumpster rental estimates from multiple companies. This helps to ensure you pay a fair price for your particular cleanup by comparing quotes from multiple waste haulers.
\r\n\r\nLearn more:
\r\n\r\n![\"broken](\"/static/8a65f2e133dc4623297816c261e3e4e8/yard-waste-removal.png\")
\r\nIf you're looking to have your abandoned or messy yard cleaned up as quickly as possible or if you want someone else to handle the cleanup work for you, then hiring a junk removal company to handle it may be the best route for you to take.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nYard waste cleanup projects range from $500-$1,000 depending on how much debris you need cleaned up, where you live, who you hire, and whether or not there are bulky/heavy or hazardous materials present.
\r\n
If there are fallen trees that need to be broken down before being loaded up, if there is heavy scrap metal, or other labor-intensive work that needs to be done, you can expect the cost of the cleanup to increase.
\r\n\r\nThe vast majority of junk removal companies offer basic yard waste pick-up, and the junk removal process is simple:
\r\n\r\nJust like dumpster rentals, Hometown can help you find local junk removal companies too. Read customer reviews for companies in your area and request multiple quotes for your junk removal project to ensure you get great services for a fair price.
\r\n\r\nKeep reading:
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nCleaning up a messy yard can feel overwhelming, but breaking it down into individual jobs can help minimize stress and streamline the process.
\r\n
The first step should be removing any and all debris, trash, broken items, or any other eyesores that can be removed.
\r\n\r\nFor example, get rid of any old toys or equipment, broken outdoor furniture, fallen tree debris, accumulated leaves, dead shrubs or trees, etc.
\r\n\r\nOnce all items are removed, and ideally organized in the appropriate place (e.g. shed, garage, or barn), it's time to tend to the grass and landscaping.
\r\n\r\nMow the lawn to reveal any weeds, animal holes, bald patches in the grass, and other undesirable features that will need to be addressed.
\r\n\r\nNext, trim back shrubs and trees to improve their appearance and boost plant health and growth.
\r\n\r\nOnce the larger plants are trimmed, you can then go in and assess smaller plants, including flowers, and determine areas that need fresh mulch, gravel, or seed.
\r\n\r\nIf you have an old fence, deck, pool, or shed/barn that's worse for wear and ready to be removed, Hometown can help you find fence and deck removal companies, pool removal contractors, and shed/barn removal companies too.
\r\n\r\nFind out more:
\r\n\r\nCleaning up an abandoned yard doesn't have to take a ton of time. Learn the benefits of having a well-maintained lawn, a few of the most common yard waste removal and disposal methods, and tips for getting the project done with minimal stress and time.
\r\n","changed":"2023-01-19T17:23:39+00:00"},"populars":[{"id":"00978826-53b2-5f1e-aa6a-5671ef43a5d6","title":"How Much Does Hoarding Cleanup Cost?","url":"/blog/hoarding-cleanups-costs-considerations-and-disposal-options","image":{"path":"/static/d0e3c619e49524a40516837405e3f2b5/hoarding-cleanup.jpg","alt":"room full of old, dirty clutter and household items"},"tags":[{"id":"8d15e244-391b-564d-8e25-ec23f4896b56","name":"Hoarding Cleanout","slug":"Hoarding-Cleanout"},{"id":"58c950b5-f4ae-5829-8cae-bf1a2ddaac1c","name":"Junk Removal Costs","slug":"Junk-Removal-Costs"},{"id":"61ca817b-0498-5abf-bbe7-cdf5935242bc","name":"Junk Removal","slug":"Junk-Removal"},{"id":"02a42cee-60f9-5dfd-858c-22ec36b1ce1e","name":"Dumpster Rental","slug":"Dumpster-Rental"}],"content":"Hoarding goes far beyond collecting items. Recognized as a mental health condition, hoarding is a rather common disorder, affecting as many as 1 in 20 people. When it's time to face a hoarding situation and come up with disposal solutions, this guide can help.
\r\n\r\nThere are so many benefits to cleaning up a cluttered house, and it goes beyond that of the house itself. Cleaning your house promotes a calmer, more peaceful state of mind.
\r\n\r\nCleaning out your home also...
\r\n\r\nThere’s a definite line between being a collector and a hoarder. While both situations involve the accumulation of “things,” collectors generally have a sense of pride in whatever it is they collect, and will keep things organized if not on display. Collectors tend to stick to a budget when adding to their collection and are well aware of the debt consequences of purchasing more than they can afford to spend.
\r\n\r\nA hoarder’s mentality, on the other hand, is not connected to pride, and they often actually feel embarrassed of the amount of things they've accumulated. This is why it's so important to be supportive and work on the cleanup at a pace the hoarder is comfortable with. Helpers will need patience during most hoarding cleanups, so do your best to keep a positive, supportive attitude during the project. Aside from the mental preparation involved in helping during a hoarding situation cleanup, it’s also important to prep for the potential dangers involved in such a project.
\r\n\r\nRisks associated with hoarding cleanups include:
\r\n\r\n![\"Family](\"/static/3deb14e06154435812de0beca4dbfef0/hoarding-cleanup-team.jpg\")
\r\nThe first step to addressing any hoarding situation is to assemble a team of supportive and motivated people that the individual trusts.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nThe decluttering and cleanout process is incredibly difficult on those who hoard, so it’s important to have lots of support, motivation, and even a bit of tough love in some cases.
\r\n
A family member or close friend should be in charge of assembling a team and addressing the hoarding cleanup plan with the hoarder.
\r\n\r\nLearn more:
\r\n\r\n![\"different](\"/static/bc780d8299e129d4e07978bfbe91a181/declutter-options.jpg\")
\r\nSeparate items of value, like furniture, household items, unopened packages, and other items that could be of benefit to others. These items can then be sold or brought to local charitable organizations. Recyclables, like newspaper, cardboard, plastics, metals, and building materials, can also be separated and brought to the nearest recycling facility. Keeping as much junk and debris out of landfills as possible is the most eco-friendly solution.
\r\n\r\nYour dumpster rental provider can help you optimize an eco-friendly disposal strategy, and some even offer discounts for clean-loaded dumpsters containing only recyclables; just ask!
\r\n\r\nOrganizations such as Habitat for Humanity will often come pick up gently used furniture and other home goods for free. Call your nearest Habitat ReStore or Salvation Army for details.
\r\n\r\nWith a team in place, it’s time to determine how you will go about organizing everything. In hoarding situations, there is often a lot of junk mixed in with a lot of items that can be used or sold. A dumpster rental will give you a convenient place to catch all the items you need to throw out, like broken furniture, old newspapers and magazines, large quantities of trash, and other old household items. Hiring a junk removal company to handle the hoarding cleanup is a convenient alternative, but a large job will cost thousands of dollars for a whole-home complete cleanout. The cost of renting a dumpster is half that or less in most cases.
\r\n\r\n| Roll-off Dumpster Size | \r\n\t\t\tAverage Rental Cost | \r\n\t\t
|---|---|
| 10 yard dumpster | \r\n\t\t\t$250-$450 | \r\n\t\t
| 20 yard dumpster | \r\n\t\t\t$350-$550 | \r\n\t\t
| 30 yard dumpster | \r\n\t\t\t$450-$650 | \r\n\t\t
| 40 yard dumpster | \r\n\t\t\t$550-$750 | \r\n\t\t
\r\n\r\n
Dumpster rental costs vary from city-to-city and from one contractor to the next, so it's important to get multiple quotes before signing a contract. This ensures you get the best services without overpaying.
\r\n\r\nSpecialty cleanup companies focused on hoarding situations may be an option in your area. These hoarding cleanup services are like specialized junk removal service providers. They are experts in safely and efficiently removing junk, but they are also experienced in handling hoarding specifically. Search local junk removal companies to find one who has experience handling hoarding situations.
\r\n\r\nIt's common for a hoarding cleanup service to charge somewhere between $0.75-$2.50 per square foot of living space overtaken with junk, garbage, and waste, plus an additional cost of $25-$60 per hour, per laborer.
\r\n\r\nHoarding cleanups are major projects. Not surprisingly, projects of this magnitude require a large dumpster or junk removal solution. A large hoarding project will generally require a 30 or 40 yard dumpster for the average-sized home, and disposal costs can add up quickly if multiple dumpsters are required to complete the job. Large dumpsters can cost $450 on the low end, and up to $750+ on the hight end for a seven-day rental period. If a junk removal service is hired for the job, you can expect to pay at least double the cost of renting a dumpster.
\r\n\r\nCall several dumpster providers and get a quote from each. Use the information gathered to negotiate a discount or a longer rental period.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nPlan ahead and contact several dumpster rental providers or junk removal companies 1-2 weeks or more in advance.
\r\n
If you can't choose between two sizes, then go with the larger size. The difference in price is less compared to having to potentially rent a second dumpster to finish the job. Some dumpster rental companies offer discounts for seniors, military, veterans, etc. Be sure to ask.
\r\n\r\nLearn more:
\r\n\r\nThere are several ways to address a hoarding situation. Learn the various strategies, costs involved with hoarding cleanups, and other considerations.
\r\n","changed":"2023-04-28T13:36:12+00:00"},{"id":"756fc3da-dd67-57a3-b164-f949bb2e7990","title":"How to Clean Out a Cluttered Garage Fast","url":"/blog/fastest-way-to-clean-out-garage","image":{"path":"/static/7fed3b7c2129c672e978e1df3a4fbca7/messy-cluttered-garage.png","alt":"cluttered garage filled with kids' toys and sports equipment"},"tags":[{"id":"61ca817b-0498-5abf-bbe7-cdf5935242bc","name":"Junk Removal","slug":"Junk-Removal"},{"id":"c6d09b3c-4685-5ba7-83fd-d69df65bae55","name":"Declutter","slug":"Declutter"},{"id":"86e68e5b-9753-5fb4-a2bd-6c49cc8782d3","name":"Garage Cleanout","slug":"Garage-Cleanout"}],"content":"Garages are one of those places in the home that tends to collect various clutter.
\r\n\r\nDisorganized clutter can build up quickly in your garage if you're not careful, making it impossible to park your car in the garage or find items in it when you need them.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nOld paint cans, unorganized tools and lawn equipment, slightly-used holiday decorations, old athletic equipment—all of this can build up quickly and can cause your garage to be a cluttered, ugly mess.
\r\n
When considering the process of decluttering and organizing your garage, it can feel like an overwhelming task.
\r\n\r\nIf you're unsure where to start or how to get the job done quickly and stress-free, you're not alone.
\r\n\r\nLuckily, Hometown is here to help answer those questions, and we make it easy to get started.
\r\n\r\n![\"how](\"/static/82a1ceb0c73b33e3432b2bb58fd8844b/clean-out-garage-fast-infographic_1.png\")
\r\n\r\n\r\nArguably the most physically and mentally taxing part of getting your garage decluttered and organized is the labor involved.
\r\n\r\nHauling heavy items out of your garage, lugging around trash and boxes, going through dusty items, and finding a way to get rid of everything you no longer want quickly and safely is exhausting and sometimes dangerous work.
\r\n\r\nProfessional junk hauling services specialize in cleaning out garages, attic cleanups, basement cleanouts, whole-home cleanouts, heavy item removals, and property cleanups.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nJunk removal companies are experts at safely cleaning out cluttered spaces, like garages, in record time.
\r\n
Instead of wearing yourself out and spending your entire weekend cleaning out your garage, reach out to local junk removal companies for help and get it done quickly.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n![\"messy](\"/static/e529f9c747c13c03407b4d94867005d2/cluttered-garage-cleanout.png\")
\r\nUnless you want to get rid of everything in your garage, you will want to start your garage cleanout by determining which items you want to keep and which items you want to get rid of.
\r\n\r\nOnce you know what you want to toss, set those items aside and start a pile, ideally outside the garage.
\r\n\r\nIf you have entire sections of your garage that you know contain items you want them to take, you can simply point those areas out to the junk removers.
\r\n\r\nMaking it clear to junk removers which items you want them to take will help them determine the scope of your garage cleanout and the time and labor it will require.
\r\n\r\nLearn more about decluttering and organizing:
\r\n\r\nHometown makes it simple for homeowners to request garage cleanout quotes from companies in their area.
\r\n\r\nJust enter your zip code and browse the junk removal service providers in your city or town.
\r\n\r\nFrom there, you can read more about their services, see what their customers have to say about them, and request free quotes from as many companies as you like.
\r\n\r\nWe recommend getting three or more junk removal quotes whenever you can to help ensure you pay a fair price and get quality services from a professional and friendly junk removal company.
\r\n\r\nTip: When you reach out to junk removal companies for a project quote, be as detailed as you can when describing what you need removed and where it's located. If you can provide pictures or video of your junk and where it's located/how accessible it is, this will help ensure you get an accurate estimate and good customer service with minimal contact.
\r\n\r\nKeep reading about junk removal services and costs:
\r\n\r\nIf you're able to provide adequate information, photos, or video of your garage cleanout needs, junk removal companies will likely be able to provide a quote over the phone, via text, or by email.
\r\n\r\nIf you're unable to provide enough context for the junk removers to be able to provide an accurate and informed project estimate remotely, that's OK.
\r\n\r\nJunk removal companies will typically send two employees to your home or business to provide an in-person quote when the job involves more than just a few items.
\r\n\r\nThese quotes are free and you are not obligated to hire them if you don't like the price they quote you.
\r\n\r\nIf you agree to the price of their garage cleanout services, they get started right away.
\r\n\r\nRead more about hiring junk removal companies:
\r\n\r\n![\"woman](\"/static/f41f0ec2e60c310097841d552cd075a0/declutter-organize-garage.png\")
\r\nPayment is taken once the garage cleanout is complete.
\r\n\r\nNow that your unwanted junk is gone and out of the way, you can now finish organizing your items.
\r\n\r\nUtilize shelves to maximize storage space, label waterproof storage bins to keep items dust- and dirt-free and easy to find, and limit the items you store in the garage moving forward.
\r\n\r\nEverything in your garage should have a designated storage space. And when you bring new items into your garage, it's a great rule of thumb to take one out in exchange to minimize clutter from piling up again.
\r\n\r\nFind out how to improve your garage:
\r\n\r\nFind out the best strategies and where to start with your garage cleanout project to get it done as quickly as possible.
\r\n","changed":"2023-02-23T01:05:18+00:00"},{"id":"ecbf0af7-1e96-571d-a905-3e697805470f","title":"Disposal Options for Flooring Removal Projects","url":"/blog/disposal-options-for-flooring-removal-projects","image":{"path":"/static/96a3276c0ab7c5ea7c7f6e6e8f7ff1dc/Flooring_removal_1_0.jpg","alt":""},"tags":[{"id":"02a42cee-60f9-5dfd-858c-22ec36b1ce1e","name":"Dumpster Rental","slug":"Dumpster-Rental"},{"id":"d1824a81-ae42-587c-9dd3-2efa674e423f","name":"Construction Dumpsters","slug":"Construction-Dumpsters"},{"id":"61ca817b-0498-5abf-bbe7-cdf5935242bc","name":"Junk Removal","slug":"Junk-Removal"}],"content":"New flooring is a major upgrade that can add function, good looks, and value to your home.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nYour floors are one of the first things people see when they enter and move throughout your home, and they can immediately influence a buyer's opinion of the home.
\r\n
With a return on investment (ROI) averaging 50-80% for new flooring installation, it’s a great investment, especially when your current flooring is old, outdated, or damaged.
\r\n\r\nRead on to learn about how to get rid of the old flooring, which type of new flooring to choose, and more.
\r\n\r\nJump to:
\r\n\r\n![\"tile](\"/static/57094ffd8d2d13ce741b2119adc6da89/Flooring-removal.jpg\")
\r\nTo get an idea of the floor removal process, we've outlined the most popular types of floor removal for you below.
\r\n\r\nThis is not a comprehensive guide by any means, but it shows that floor removal isn't always as easy as it seems.
\r\n\r\nAs you can see, floor removal isn't a job for just anybody.
\r\n\r\nThat's why we always recommend hiring a professional to handle your floor removal.
\r\n\r\nThey'll be able to get the work done quickly, safely, and properly.
\r\n\r\nLearn more:
\r\n\r\nOnce the floor is torn up, it's time to manage the resulting debris.
\r\n\r\nIf you hire a professional to handle your floor removal, it's likely the will handle the debris disposal for you.
\r\n\r\nIif you chose to tear up your floors yourself, you're left responsible with figuring out what to do with the debris.
\r\n\r\nIt’s unlawful to dispose of construction debris in your curbside trash can, so avoid putting carpeting or other flooring scraps in with your regular trash.
\r\n\r\nIt may be possible to schedule a special pick-up with your waste hauler, but you need to call ahead to set this up. (Additional fees likely apply.)
\r\n\r\nHowever, we recommend renting a dumpster or hiring a junk removal company to handle the mess for you.
\r\n\r\nRenting a temporary dumpster is a super simple and convenient way to get rid of your flooring debris and potentially other junk you've got lying around your house.
\r\n\r\nTypically, a 10 yard or 20 yard dumpster is enough for a floor disposal project, and they cost anywhere from $250-$350 on average for a seven-day rental.
\r\n\r\nCosts vary by dumpster size, where you're located, the type and amount of debris you're disposing, and who you hire.
\r\n\r\nWe recommend reaching out to three dumpster rental providers (or more) to ensure you get the right dumpster size for the job without overpaying.
\r\n\r\nThis also will help to ensure you fnd a dumpster service that can have your dumpster delivered and picked up when you need it.
\r\n\r\nWhen reaching out to contractors for quotes, be sure you have a good understanding of how much debris you have.
\r\n\r\nThis will allow them to more accurately estimate which dumpster size is right for you.
\r\n\r\nReach out to dumpster providers a week or more in advance whenever possible to increase the chances of getting the dumpster you need when you need it.
\r\n\r\nKeep reading:
\r\n\r\nIf speed and convenience are a priority for you, hiring a junk removal company to load up, haul away, and dispose of your flooring debris is the way to go.
\r\n\r\nBecause they do all the work for you, junk removal is almost always more expensive than dumpster rental.
\r\n\r\nHowever, many people find that the time and effort saved is well worth the cost.
\r\n\r\nJust like with dumpster rental (and any other service), we recommend reaching out to multiple companies for quotes to ensure you choose the right one for you and your project.
\r\n\r\nLearn more:
\r\n\r\n![\"trending](\"/static/ce3f6df8a7bc07a72abac67e36d2571e/Flooring-removal-2.jpg\")
\r\nThe top choice in flooring materials, based on ROI and overall desirability, is wood flooring.
\r\n\r\nYou can expect to get back all or nearly all of the money put into wood flooring.
\r\n\r\nFor example, investing $5,000 in new wood floors throughout the house will likely raise the value of the home by $5,000 or more.
\r\n\r\nIt’s a cost-effective alternative to wood flooring that can boost a home’s value, just not quite as much as real wood flooring.
\r\n\r\nThis is a great option for mid-tier homes where it's common to utilize laminate wood flooring, carpeting, or vinyl.
\r\n\r\nIdeal for bathrooms, kitchens, and other “wet” areas, tile offers varying ROI depending on the type of tile and the type of neighborhood.
\r\n\r\nHigh-end tile flooring makes sense in a high-end home, but will not offer a great ROI when installed in a low-to-mid level home.
\r\n\r\nA great option for high-traffic or wet areas when on a budget.
\r\n\r\nThis type of flooring doesn’t necessarily offer a great ROI, but fresh flooring can always improve the aesthetic and functionality of a house, which never hurts.
\r\n\r\nAn affordable option that works well in some areas of the home, such as living rooms, dens, or bedrooms, is carpeting.
\r\n\r\nHowever, carpeting is typically less favorable compared to wood and laminate wood flooring.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n
If you're considering replacing your floors, start here. Find out how to remove and dispose of your old flooring, popular replacement options, and more.
\r\n","changed":"2023-03-02T22:23:43+00:00"}],"code":"dumpster","env":{"domain":"https://www.hometowndumpsterrental.com","site":"dumpster","service":"https://api.bookable.com","build":"blogPages"}}}, "staticQueryHashes": []}