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Demolition Prep

Roof Tear-Off Tips

Best practices for roofing debris disposal and dumpster placement.

5 min read

Roofing projects generate a lot of debris. Proper planning ensures safe disposal and protects your property. Here's what you need to know.

Choosing the Right Bin Size

Roofing debris is heavy, so choose your bin size carefully:

10 Yard Bin

Perfect for roofs up to 2,000 square feet. This size handles approximately 3-4 squares of shingles.

15 Yard Bin

Ideal for roofs 2,000-3,500 square feet. Handles approximately 5-7 squares of shingles. Recommended for most residential roofs.

Dumpster Placement

Where you place your dumpster matters for both safety and convenience:

Close to the Work Area

Place the bin as close as safely possible to where debris will fall. This reduces carrying distance and speeds up cleanup.

Protect Your Property

Our protection boards will be placed under the bin. Consider additional tarps or plywood if debris will fall near landscaping.

Access for Trucks

Ensure the delivery truck can access the placement area. Our trucks need at least 10 feet of clearance.

Avoid Overhead Obstacles

Keep the bin away from power lines, tree branches, and other overhead obstacles.

Loading Tips

Proper loading maximizes space and ensures safe transport:

  • Load shingles flat to maximize space—don't just dump them in
  • Distribute weight evenly throughout the bin
  • Don't overfill—keep debris level with or below the rim
  • Mix in lighter materials (tar paper, wood) to balance weight
  • Break up large pieces of wood or sheathing before loading

Weight Considerations

Roofing materials are heavy. Here's what to know about weight limits:

  • Asphalt shingles: Approximately 250-400 pounds per square (100 sq ft)
  • Wood shingles: Lighter, but still substantial
  • Concrete tiles: Very heavy—may require multiple bins
  • Weight limits: Vary by bin size. Check with us if you're concerned about weight

💡 Pro Tip

If you're replacing a large roof (over 3,500 sq ft), consider ordering two bins or scheduling a swap mid-project. This prevents overfilling and keeps your project moving.

Safety Reminders

  • • Always use proper fall protection when working on roofs
  • • Never throw debris directly into the bin from the roof
  • • Use a chute or tarp to guide debris safely to the ground
  • • Keep the area around the bin clear of people and pets
  • • Wear safety glasses and gloves when handling debris

Ready to order?

Get your dumpster delivered as soon as today.