What size dumpster do I need for a roofing project?

A 15-yard dumpster handles most single-layer residential roof replacements up to 2,500 sq ft in Jacksonville. The 2-ton weight limit is the key constraint for roofing, not volume. For roofs over 2,500 sq ft or multi-layer tear-offs, a 20-yard dumpster or scheduled swap-out is recommended.

How heavy are roofing shingles?

Standard asphalt shingles weigh 200-300 pounds per "square" (100 square feet of roof coverage). A 2,000 sq ft roof produces approximately 4,000-6,000 lbs of shingle debris, plus underlayment, flashing, and damaged decking. Our 15-yard dumpster includes a 2-ton (4,000 lb) weight limit, with overages at $75/ton.

Should the contractor or homeowner provide the dumpster?

Either works. Many Jacksonville roofers include dumpster rental in their quote. If you rent your own dumpster, you maintain control over timing and can often save $50-$100 compared to the contractor's markup. Ask your roofer if debris removal is included and whether there are weight overage fees.

Can I put old roofing materials in a dumpster?

Yes, asphalt shingles, underlayment, flashing, drip edge, ridge vents, and damaged plywood decking all go in the dumpster. The only prohibited items from roofing projects are spray foam insulation cans with remaining product and any hazardous materials like asbestos (pre-1980 homes should be tested).

Managing Roofing Project Waste: A Contractor and Homeowner Guide

Roofing Project Waste Management

A 15-yard dumpster ($325) is the best dumpster for most residential roofing projects in Jacksonville. It handles roofs up to 2,500 sq ft with a single layer of shingles. For larger roofs or multi-layer tear-offs, use a 20-yard dumpster ($375) or schedule a swap-out. The critical factor for roofing dumpsters is weight, not volume, since asphalt shingles weigh 200-300 pounds per 100 square feet of coverage.

904 Dumpster has been the go-to dumpster provider for Jacksonville roofing contractors since 2016. Here is how to plan your debris management based on real project data from our local deliveries.

Shingle Weight Calculations

Standard asphalt shingles weigh approximately 200-300 pounds per "square" (100 square feet of coverage). A typical Jacksonville home has:

•1,500 sq ft roof: 15 squares = 3,000-4,500 lbs of shingles

•2,500 sq ft roof: 25 squares = 5,000-7,500 lbs of shingles

•3,500 sq ft roof: 35 squares = 7,000-10,500 lbs of shingles

These weights assume a single layer. Homes with multiple layers of shingles can have double or triple the weight.

Additional Debris

Beyond shingles, roofing projects generate:

•Underlayment (felt or synthetic)

•Flashing and drip edge

•Damaged decking/plywood

•Nails and fasteners

•Ridge vents and caps

Choosing the Right Dumpster

For roofing projects, we recommend:

15-Yard Dumpster - $325 flat rate

•Best for: Roofs up to 25 squares (2,500 sq ft)

•Weight limit: 4,000 lbs (2 tons)

•Single-layer removal only

•Our most popular choice for Jacksonville roofing contractors

20-Yard Dumpster - $375 flat rate

•Best for: Roofs over 25 squares

•Weight limit: 4,000 lbs (2 tons)

•Can handle some multi-layer removal

•Ideal for larger homes in St. Johns County and Ponte Vedra

Multiple Dumpsters

Large commercial roofs or multi-layer residential roofs may require multiple dumpsters or scheduled swap-outs. Need help estimating? See our dumpster size comparison guide.

Dumpster Placement for Roofing

Strategic dumpster placement makes the job safer and faster:

Ideal Placement

•Close to the work area but not blocking crew movement

•Away from overhead lines and tree branches

•On stable, level ground

•Accessible for pickup truck

Protection Tips

•Place plywood under the dumpster to protect driveways

•Consider where debris will land during tear-off

•Keep the area around the dumpster clear of nails and debris

Jacksonville Weather Considerations

Northeast Florida weather impacts roofing projects:

Summer (June-September)

•Schedule work for early morning hours

•Secure tarps for afternoon thunderstorms

•Have the dumpster ready for quick cleanup before storms

Hurricane Season (June-November)

•Monitor weather forecasts closely

•Consider project timing carefully

•Have plans for securing the dumpster if storms approach

Winter (December-February)

•Ideal working conditions

•Fewer weather delays

•Higher demand from contractors

Tips for Contractors

Efficient Loading

•Drop debris directly into the dumpster from the roof edge when possible

•Load heavy materials first

•Distribute weight evenly across the dumpster

•Fill gaps with lighter materials

Scheduling

•Order the dumpster 1-2 days before project start

•Confirm pickup timing based on project completion

•Build in buffer for weather delays

Safety

•Keep the dumpster clear of the work zone

•Mark any nails or sharp debris areas

•Ensure crew knows weight limits

For Homeowners

If you are hiring a roofing contractor, understand how debris disposal is handled:

Contractor-Provided Dumpster

Many roofers include dumpster rental in their quote. Confirm what is included and whether there are weight overage fees.

Homeowner-Provided Dumpster

Some homeowners prefer to rent their own dumpster. This can save money but makes you responsible for the dumpster rental.

Questions to Ask Your Roofer:

1.Is debris removal included in the quote?

2.Are there potential overage charges?

3.How will my property be protected?

4.What happens to the old roofing materials?

Roofing Dumpster Weight Estimator

Roof Size	Shingle Weight (1 layer)	Recommended Dumpster	Price
Up to 1,500 sq ft	3,000-4,500 lbs	15-Yard	$325
1,500-2,500 sq ft	4,000-7,500 lbs	15-Yard or 20-Yard	$325-$375
2,500-3,500 sq ft	5,000-10,500 lbs	20-Yard + swap-out	$375+
Multi-layer (any size)	2x-3x above weights	Multiple containers	Call for pricing

Scheduling Your Roofing Dumpster

For roofing projects in Jacksonville and Northeast Florida, call 904 Dumpster at (904) 240-5598 or book online. We offer same-day delivery, flexible rental periods, and weight limit guidance based on your specific roof.

We serve all of Duval County including Jacksonville Beach, Atlantic Beach, plus Orange Park in Clay County, Fleming Island, and St. Augustine.

Before your project, review our guide on what items cannot go in a dumpster and check if you need a dumpster permit in Jacksonville.