External Plastic Chutes
For light-duty construction, roofing and renovation jobs, our DURACHUTE™ and DURAFLAT™ plastic chute systems are an ideal solution for debris disposal. These chutes can be easily installed and disassembled by your own crew, saving you considerable time and production costs throughout the length of their life. They’re perfect for lighter demolition, roof work and new construction, and can even be repurposed for specialized applications such as snow removal and landscaping.
If you do need help with staging and installation of your chute, we’ll send one of our expert-trained technicians, who is 100% guaranteed to do the job right the first time.
DURACHUTE™
Our standard external plastic chute system, easily attached to smaller buildings. Made from high-density, heat-treated polyethylene to ensure the safest, most durable plastic construction debris chute in the industry.
DURAFLAT™
Created in response to roofer demands, this is a flatter and less expensive alternative to our standard plastic chutes. While not as durable as the DURACHUTE™ sections, their compact design and ease of transport makes them a very economical option for lightweight construction or short-use applications.
External Steel Chutes
For heavy-duty projects that deal in heavy, our expertly engineered and constructed steel chutes are up to the task. Upon placing your rental order, the CHUTES International team will arrive at your site to design and install each section for you. When the work is complete, we’ll take care of the disassembly and shipping back to our warehouse, too. Perfect for high-rise buildings and the most extreme conditions, these virtually indestructible steel chutes will prove dependable for the entire length of the job.
Maintenance and Emergency Service
To ensure that you receive the longest life and most effective service out of your external trash chutes, our team offers preventative maintenance and repair services on any chute installation in Maryland, Washington D.C., Virginia and the surrounding areas. This includes:
Not working in the DMV area, but still need help? Contact us and we’ll assist you in any way that we can!
External Chute Parts
Frequently Asked Questions
What are external chutes?
External chutes are temporary debris removal systems installed on the outside of a building, typically used during construction, renovation, or demolition projects. They provide a controlled means of moving debris from upper floors to a designated collection area at ground level.
What are external chutes used for?
External chutes are used to safely and efficiently remove construction debris such as drywall, wood, metal, concrete, roofing materials, and general demolition waste from multi-story buildings.
How do external chutes work?
External chutes consist of connected chute sections that form a vertical or angled pathway from an upper floor to the ground. Debris is placed into a hopper or intake at the top and travels down through the chute by gravity into a dumpster or designated collection container below.
What is the difference between external and internal chutes?
External chutes are temporary systems mounted outside a building for the removal of construction debris. Internal chutes are permanent systems installed inside buildings for the ongoing collection of waste, recycling, or laundry.
What materials are external chutes made from?
External chutes are typically made from high-density plastic (HDPE), steel, or aluminum. The material used depends on the type of debris, building height, and project requirements.
Are there different types of external chute systems?
Yes. Common types include:
- Plastic modular chutes
- Steel chutes
- Heavy-duty demolition chutes
- Dust-controlled chute systems
- Trash and recycling chutes for construction projects
What’s the difference between plastic and steel chutes?
Plastic chutes are lightweight, easy to install, and ideal for general construction debris. Steel chutes are heavier, more durable, and used for heavy or sharp demolition debris such as concrete, brick, or metal.
How tall can external chutes be?
External chutes can typically be installed on buildings several stories high. The maximum height depends on the chute manufacturer, material type, and local safety regulations. Tall installations may require additional structural support.
Can external chutes be used for materials other than debris?
Yes. External chutes can be used for trash, recycling, roofing tear-offs, renovation debris, and certain bulk materials, depending on the chute type and design.
How do external chutes improve efficiency on job sites?
External chutes reduce labor time, improve site safety, minimize debris handling, and keep job sites cleaner and more organized by providing a direct path for debris removal.
How are external chutes installed?
External chutes are typically supported by brackets, frames, window adapters, roof mounts, or scaffolding systems and are secured to the building structure to ensure stability and safety.
Do external chutes require scaffolding?
Not always. Many chute systems use window frames, floor mounts, or roof supports. However, scaffolding may be required depending on the building structure and chute height.
Can you rent or buy external chutes?
Yes. External chute systems are available for both rental and purchase depending on project duration and frequency of use.
What size debris can go down a chute?
Debris should be small enough to fit through the hopper opening and chute diameter. Large or bulky items should be broken down before disposal to prevent blockages.
Can external chutes be used on any building?
Most buildings can accommodate an external chute system, but installation depends on building height, structure, access points, and local regulations.
Where does the debris go after traveling through the chute?
Debris is discharged into a dumpster, trailer, bin, or designated debris collection area at ground level.
Are external chutes safe?
Yes, when properly installed and used according to manufacturer guidelines and safety regulations, external chutes are a safe method for debris removal.
What safety standards apply to external chutes?
External chutes must comply with local building codes and safety regulations, including OSHA requirements for debris handling, fall protection, and job site safety.
What are the common safety risks of external chutes?
Common safety risks include:
- Falling debris
- Chute blockages
- Improper installation
- Overloading the chute
- Unauthorized access to chute discharge areas
What kind of maintenance is required for external chutes?
Maintenance includes regularly inspecting brackets and supports for cracks or damage, ensuring connections are secure, and keeping the chute free of blockages.
What are the advantages of using external chutes?
External chutes:
- Improve job site safety
- Increase efficiency
- Reduce labor costs
- Control debris removal
- Help keep sites clean and organized
- Reduce dust and debris spread
Are external chutes reusable?
Yes. Most external chute systems are modular and reusable, making them a cost-effective solution for multiple projects.
