Roofing
Roofing Tear-Off Dumpster Sizing by Squares
How to size a dumpster for a roofing tear-off in Eau Claire, WI — squares, layers and shingle weight explained in plain terms.
Roofing debris trips people up because it's heavier than it looks, and a size that seems obviously right by volume can run over on weight. Here's how to think about it correctly.
What a "square" means
Roofers measure in squares — one square covers 100 square feet of roof. A typical single-family home runs 15-30 squares depending on size and roof complexity.
Why shingles are heavier than they look
A single layer of asphalt shingles runs roughly 200-300 pounds per square. A tear-off with two or three layers — common on an older home that's been re-roofed before — can double or triple that weight fast.
A rough sizing guide
- Up to about 15 squares, single layer: a 10 or 15 yard usually works.
- 15-25 squares, single layer, or a smaller multi-layer job: a 20 yard is the common pick.
- 25+ squares, or multiple layers: talk it through on the phone — you may need a 30 yard or a split load.
Summer heat matters too
Shingles get noticeably heavier and stickier to handle in summer heat, which can make a load feel fuller faster than the same job in cooler weather. Worth mentioning when you call during a hot stretch.
Getting an accurate quote
Tell us the square footage, how many layers are coming off, and roughly what season it is, and we'll size the container around actual weight, not just the roof's footprint.
Need a container in Eau Claire or anywhere in Greater Eau Claire? Call (534) 200-6698 and describe the job. We will name the size, the flat rate and a delivery slot — often the same day. No forms, no waiting on an email.