Rubbish chutes (also known as refuse chutes or garbage chutes) are common in high rise buildings. Because they are used frequently, they need proper care and maintenance to function smoothly without causing hygiene issues and fire hazard.
Similar to drain pipes, rubbish chutes should be kept clean. If they are not, they can easily develop an unbearable smell which can enter the internal living space.
Rubbish chute throats and the chute itself need to be maintained to prevent holes and cracks forming. Small cracks and holes can very quickly become larger ones which accumulate unhygienic debris and are very costly to repair.
A build-up of rubbish also poses a huge fire hazard, so routine inspections are a must.
How can CJDK Constructions assist with your Refuse Chute?
CJDK Constructions is one of the only experienced companies which specialise in rubbish chute/ refuse chute/garbage chute restoration and repair.
Rubbish chutes are complex and difficult to repair given their location and accessibility. We have the experience to provide advice and solutions.
Over many years we have streamlined the processes and procedures to address all sorts of issues and know the suppliers to contact for parts and materials.
We have worked on many buildings on the Gold Coast, Brisbane and the Sunshine Coast including Q1, Circle on Cavill, Air on Broadbeach and Mantra Crown Towers.
6 things to ensure a safe and clean Rubbish Chute
Refuse Chute Doors in working order
The closing mechanisms always ensure proper, air-tight closing of the refuse chute door. Securing the door properly is very important. It not only prevents bad smells and insects but also prevents a fire hazard.
Proper Signage
Proper signage on your refuse chute door is very important. It should communicate no heavy objects or large boxes, as these cause damage and blockages.
Regular Cleaning
For Hygiene and fire hazard purposes, it is important to have your garbage chute regularly cleaned. We recommend quarterly to half yearly cleaning depending on the size of your building.
Routine 6 monthly Inspection and Maintenance checks
Regular inspections of your rubbish chute can identify issues and measures can be taken in a timely manner to prevent further damage from occurring. This will save $$$ in the long run.
Rubbish Bin Room fire shutoff door functioning correctly
The fire shutoff door is designed to close in the event of a fire in the skip bin/ compactor. It will prevent rubbish coming down the chute and fuelling the fire. It is also designed to shut off the chute when changing skip bins/ compactor.
Chute Throats are in good condition with no cracks
The chute throat transitions the rubbish into the column from the door. The throats are the main component which can deteriorate and fail as they receive direct impact from rubbish descending. It is therefore crucial to have these inspected and maintained. Once a throat fails, holes are created in the column which are a costly repair.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ’s)
Do you offer a warranty?
Yes, warranties are available. Please ask for more details.
How long does it take to perform rubbish chute repairs?
The length of time it will take to perform rubbish chute repairs will depend on the size of your building and the extent of repairs to be performed.
How much disruption is caused to the running of a building while rubbish chute repairs are being conducted?
The disruptions are minimal to guests and residents. We work with Building Managers to assist with signage and alternative waste removal.
Why is our garbage chute getting blocked?
Blockages can be caused by poor signage. Signage should stipulate that large items (eg pizza boxes) should not be placed into the garbage chute.
Cracks and holes in the column can also snare and catch waste causing a blockage.
Why is there a persistent smell in our building?
If there are holes in the refuse chute column, rubbish will overspill to the outside of the column where it will rot and create a smell. If your column is in this state, repairs are urgent, and if not dealt with immediately, the problem will escalate and become a lot more costly to repair.
How often do we need our rubbish chute inspected/ maintained?
As rubbish chutes and door components are exposed to heavy falling objects, damage can occur quite rapidly. We, therefore, advise annual inspection and maintenance checks are performed. During this process we check doors, throats, column and bin room shut off doors.
