Calculating Your Dumpster Weight and Why It Matters

You can use the following estimates to calculate your approximate weights to choose the best Roll-Off Dumpster for your project.  Remember, these are only estimates and should not be considered absolute factual.

Dumpster Weight Limit Matters?

Yes, construction debris may fit in your roll-off container, however its possible for the weight of your debris to exceed the dumpster weight limit.  We have containers specifically designed for heavy material, like concrete or dirt.  Exceeding the maximum weight limit will result in additional charges and no one likes surprises.  So, we recommend understanding the materials and their weights in order to choose the best dumpster for your project.  If you aren’t quite sure which container is best for your project, please call 888-601-0677 and our team will be more than happy to help.

Inclement Weather Considerations?

Water weight from rain or snow can contribute significantly to your dumpster’s weight resulting in additional weight charges.  Therefore, we highly recommend using a tarp to cover your dumpster when expecting inclement weather, especially if the container holds debris like leaves, mattresses, and/or paint buckets that can hold water weight.

How Much Does Drywall Weigh?

The weight of drywall, sheetrock and plaster can be calculated using the square footage of debris and the thickness of the material. A single sheet of 4 foot by 8 foot, ½-inch thick drywall weighs approximately 50 pounds.

How Much Does Carpet Weigh?

Carpet can weigh between 5 and 20 pounds per square yard, or .5 to 2.2 pounds per square foot.

How Much Does Shingle Roofing Weigh?

A bundle of three-tab asphalt shingles (range from 21 up to 29 shingles) weighs between 60 and 80 pounds, but this may vary depending on the quality and type of shingle. Generally, three bundles of shingles are enough to cover 1 square of roof (100 square feet), weighing approximately 180 to 240 pounds.

How Much Does Concrete & Asphalt Weigh?

Concrete and asphalt weights are based on the square footage and thickness of the material. On average, a cubic yard of solid concrete weighs 4,050 pounds (~2 tons), or 150 pounds per cubic foot. Solid asphalt weighs slightly less at 3,960 pounds per cubic yard.  However, broken concrete and asphalt weighs closer to 2,025 pounds (~1 ton) per cubic yard, or 75 pounds per cubic foot, when disposed of in a dumpster due to the amount of empty space.