When it comes to home improvement projects, particularly roofing, understanding the weight of shingles is essential. Not only does it impact the structural considerations for your roof, but it also plays a significant role in determining the waste disposal strategy—especially when you’re dealing with old shingles. In this post, we’ll break down the basics of shingle weight per square foot and how it relates to efficient waste management.
What Are Asphalt Shingles?
Asphalt shingles are the most common type of roofing material in the U.S. due to their durability and affordability. They come in two main varieties:
- Three-tab shingles – Lightweight and commonly used in standard roofing projects.
- Architectural shingles – Thicker and more durable, ideal for projects needing extra strength.
How Much Do Shingles Weigh?
The weight of shingles varies based on type, age, and condition, but here’s a general guide:
- Three-tab shingles: ~2.3-3.0 pounds per square foot.
- Architectural shingles: ~3.5-5.0 pounds per square foot.
For context, a standard “square” of shingles (covering 100 square feet) can weigh between 200 and 350 pounds. If your project involves multiple layers of old shingles being removed, the total weight can add up quickly.
Why Does Shingle Weight Matter for Waste Management?
Understanding the weight of shingles is critical for choosing the right dumpster size for your project. Overloading a dumpster can result in:
- Additional fees for exceeding weight limits.
- Delays due to the need for an extra dumpster.
- Safety hazards during transport and disposal.
At Daily Dumpster, we provide tools like the Asphalt Shingle Weight Calculator to help you estimate the weight of your waste and select the correct dumpster size.
Choosing the Right Dumpster for Shingles
When disposing of shingles, here are some general guidelines:
- 10-yard dumpster: Ideal for small projects, holding up to 10 squares (approximately 1 ton).
- 20-yard dumpster: Better for medium projects, holding up to 20 squares.
- 30-yard dumpster: Perfect for larger-scale renovations, accommodating over 30 squares of shingles.
Environmental Considerations
Don’t forget about the environmental impact! Asphalt shingles can sometimes be recycled into materials like road asphalt. Contact your local recycling center to see if this is an option.
Plan Your Shingle Disposal with Daily Dumpster
At Daily Dumpster, we make waste management straightforward and efficient. Whether you’re undertaking a small roofing project or a complete re-roofing job, our team can help you calculate the weight of your shingles and select the best dumpster size to avoid surprises. With competitive pricing, transparent billing, and prompt service, your project is in good hands.
Ready to Get Started?
Contact us today at (423) 599-9616 or visit our website to book your dumpster. Let us take the weight off your shoulders—literally!