How to Use This Calculator
- Select shingle type - 3-tab, architectural, or designer/premium
- Enter roof size - In roofing squares (1 square = 100 sq ft) or total square feet
- Choose layers - Number of shingle layers being removed
- Add extras - Underlayment, flashing, or decking if applicable
- Enter your zipcode - For location-specific pricing estimates
- Get your recommendation - See debris weight, optimal dumpster size, and cost estimate
Shingle Weight Reference
According to the Asphalt Roofing Manufacturers Association (ARMA), shingle weights vary significantly by type:
| Shingle Type | Weight per Square | Common Brands |
|---|---|---|
| 3-Tab | ~230 lbs | GAF Royal Sovereign, Owens Corning Supreme |
| Architectural | ~300 lbs | GAF Timberline, Owens Corning Duration |
| Designer/Premium | ~350 lbs | GAF Grand Canyon, CertainTeed Grand Manor |
How Roofing Weight Is Calculated
Roofing debris weight is calculated using industry-standard shingle weights per roofing square (100 square feet). The National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA) recommends accounting for additional materials and a safety buffer:
Shingle weights vary by type: 3-tab shingles average 230 lbs/square, architectural shingles run about 300 lbs/square, and premium designer shingles average 350 lbs/square. The calculator adds a 15% safety buffer to account for nails, debris waste, moisture, and variations in material density.
Additional materials like underlayment (+10%), flashing (+5%), and plywood decking (+25%) increase the total weight proportionally.
Assumed Values
- 3-Tab Shingles: 230 lbs per roofing square
- Architectural Shingles: 300 lbs per roofing square
- Designer/Premium Shingles: 350 lbs per roofing square
- Roofing Debris Density: 600 lbs per cubic yard (for volume conversion)
- Safety Buffer: 15% added to all estimates
- Effective Dumpster Capacity: 85% of nominal volume (accounts for uneven loading)
How We Select Your Dumpster Size
Roofing debris is among the heaviest residential waste types. Unlike general debris where volume is usually the limit, roofing projects are almost always weight-limited. Our calculator optimizes for total cost by considering:
- Volume capacity - Physical space in the dumpster
- Weight limits - Included weight and maximum weight
- Regional pricing - Base rental and overage fees for your area
Available Dumpster Sizes for Roofing
Most providers restrict roofing materials to 10, 15, or 20-yard containers. Larger dumpsters (30-40 yard) typically don't allow roofing due to weight:
| Size | Eff. Volume | Included Weight | Max Weight | Typical Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 10-yard | 8.5 yd³ | 2 tons | 4 tons | $300-450 |
| 15-yard | 12.5 yd³ | 2.5 tons | 4 tons | $350-500 |
| 20-yard | 17 yd³ | 3 tons | 5 tons | $400-600 |
Prices vary by location. Our calculator adjusts for your regional market.
Understanding Overage Fees
Each dumpster has two weight limits:
- Included weight - Covered by base rental (no extra fees)
- Max weight - Absolute limit (exceeding requires second dumpster)
A dumpster cannot be loaded beyond max weight - the hauler will refuse pickup or charge for a second trip. If your debris falls between included and max weight, overage fees apply. According to EREF landfill tipping fee data, overage rates typically range from $50-100 per ton depending on your region.
Overage Fee = (Your Weight - Included Weight) × Local Overage Rate
Example: Your roofing debris weighs 4 tons in a 20-yard dumpster (3-ton included, 5-ton max):
- 4 tons is under max (5 tons) ✓ - pickup allowed
- Overage = 4 − 3 = 1 ton over included weight
- If local overage rate is $75/ton → Overage fee = 1 × $75 = $75
Common Roofing Dumpster Mistakes
Underestimating shingle weight: Asphalt shingles are among the heaviest residential debris types. Even a small roof can exceed dumpster weight limits, leading to extra fees or rejected pickups.
Ordering too small: A dumpster that looks half full may already be at its maximum weight limit. When choosing between two sizes, always size up - a larger dumpster often costs less than overweight fees or a second rental.
Forgetting multiple layers: Many older homes have 2-3 layers of shingles. Each layer adds the full weight again, quickly pushing projects into heavier dumpster categories.
Ignoring weight vs. size: Dumpster size (cubic yards) and allowed weight (tons) are not the same. A 20-yard dumpster may only allow 3-4 tons. Always confirm tonnage limits.
Not accounting for wet shingles: Rain-soaked shingles can weigh 15-20% more. If your tear-off happens after rain, factor in extra weight or wait for the roof to dry.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why can't I use a 30 or 40-yard dumpster for roofing?
Roofing debris is extremely heavy. A 30-yard dumpster filled with shingles would exceed legal truck weight limits long before it's full. Most providers restrict roofing materials to 10, 15, or 20-yard containers.
How do I know how many shingle layers my roof has?
Check the edge of your roof at the eaves or look at a visible cross-section. You can also ask a roofing contractor during an inspection. Most building codes allow a maximum of 2-3 layers before a full tear-off is required.
Should I include a safety buffer in my estimate?
This calculator already includes a 15% safety buffer. The buffer accounts for nails, felt paper, flashing, and variations in shingle weight. If you're unsure about your roof's condition, consider sizing up one dumpster size.
What's the difference between included weight and max weight?
Included weight is covered by your base rental price with no extra fees. Max weight is the absolute limit the dumpster can hold. If your debris falls between these limits, you'll pay overage fees (typically $50-100 per ton). Exceeding max weight requires multiple dumpsters.
How accurate is this calculator?
The calculator uses industry-standard weights from ARMA and NRCA. Actual weights can vary 10-15% based on manufacturer, shingle age, and moisture content. The 15% safety buffer helps account for these variations.
What if my debris weight exceeds what one dumpster can hold?
The calculator automatically shows how many dumpsters you'll need based on both weight and volume constraints. For multi-dumpster projects, schedule deliveries so the next dumpster arrives as you fill the first one.
About Our Methodology
This calculator uses data from authoritative sources cited throughout this page:
- Shingle weights - Based on ARMA technical bulletins and manufacturer specs
- Layer multipliers - NRCA guidelines for multi-layer tear-offs
- Regional pricing - Derived from EREF landfill tipping fee research
About our estimates: A 15% safety buffer is included to account for nails, moisture, and loading variations. Dumpster specifications reflect industry standards from major rental providers.
Related Calculators
- General Dumpster Size Calculator - Quick estimates for any project type
- Concrete & Masonry Calculator - For heavy material disposal
- Garage Cleanout Calculator - For general cleanout projects
Disclaimer: This calculator provides estimates for planning purposes. Actual debris weight may vary based on shingle manufacturer, moisture content, and job site conditions. Confirm dumpster weight limits and pricing with your rental provider before ordering.