How it works
The Asphalt Roofing Manufacturers Association's recycling guide uses about 2.5 lb per square foot for a single-layer asphalt shingle tear-off (Asphalt Roofing Manufacturers Association: shingle recycling), so we multiply your roof area by 2.5 for each layer. Volume uses the EPA's figure of 731 lb per cubic yard for composition roofing (US EPA: volume-to-weight conversion factors (2016)). We then pick the smallest size whose weight capacity, as used in Fixr's price ranges, covers the load (Fixr: dumpster rental cost (updated January 2025)).
New shingles weigh roughly 175–233 lb per square, according to Connecticut DEEP: asphalt shingle recycling. Tear-off debris also includes nails, felt and underlayment, which is why the per-square figure is higher. Heavier architectural shingles, wet debris or extra layers push the weight up.
Can shingles be recycled?
In some areas, yes: shingles can go into asphalt paving. Connecticut DEEP lists shingle recycling as an option (Connecticut DEEP: asphalt shingle recycling). Ask local companies whether they offer a shingle-only container.
Questions
How much does a roof tear-off weigh?
About 2.5 lb per square foot per layer is the figure the roofing industry's recycling guide uses (Asphalt Roofing Manufacturers Association: shingle recycling). A 2,000 sq ft single-layer roof is around 5,000 lb, or 2.5 tons.
What size dumpster for a roof?
It's usually decided by weight. Fixr's figures put a 20-yard at about 3,000 lb and a 30-yard at about 4,300 lb (Fixr: dumpster rental cost (updated January 2025)), so many roofs need a 30-yard, two loads, or a roofing container with a higher limit.
How many squares is my roof?
One roofing square is 100 square feet. A roofer's estimate lists squares; otherwise measure each roof plane and add them up.