Re: Are there any uses for old sheetrock

Ann wrote:

farmerjoe wrote:

We are ripping down a few walls and the sheetrock is not all that old.
Of course it cant be saved for re-use. We dont have any trash pickup so
either I have to haul it many miles, or fill a hole on the farm. But I
got to thinking. I have several stalls in the barn that always end up
being mud holes. What would happen if I made sure there were no nails
or screws, and put it on the floor? I know the paper component of it is
safe for livestock, but I am not sure about the gypsum. I'd think it's
safe since it's just a rock material, but I am not positive. Does
anyone know? If nothing else, it would likely make a good base under
stall mats. A lot of farmers use lime screenings, which seems to me to
be about the same as gypsum. Anyone have any ideas about this? Are
there any other uses other than filling holes in the ground? I like the
idea of recycling, but this is one thing I dont see listed in any
recycling guides.

Joe

MSDS
http://www.nationalgypsum.com/msds/msds01501.pdf

It appears that, because of the silica in the dust released when gypsum
board is pulverized, it would not be a good idea to use it inside.

Google on: gypsum "soil conditioner" Iirc, it's suggested for use in
clay and other crappy soil where lime would make it too alkaline. Also
should check whether the gypsum in gypsum board is the same compound as
that used for soil conditioner. Try posting questions about soil use to a
gardening newsgroup(s).

If disposal off site turns out to be your best option, look for a
demolition materials landfill. At least in my state, they don't have to
be lined so dumping costs less than at a standard household waste
landfill.


Ann! good to read you here. I missed your balanced and worthwhile
contributions. welcome back!
.