What Size Bin Do You Need for a Roofing Job?
Roofing jobs are where people most often choose the wrong bin. A tear-off doesn't look like much debris, but shingles are heavy. If you size a roofing dumpster by volume alone, you can end up with a bin that looks half empty and still goes over its weight allowance. Here's how to pick the right bin for shingles in Ottawa.
The Quick Answer
For most residential roof tear-offs, the 14 yard bin ($415 +HST) is our go-to roofing bin. It's a practical size for shingles while still leaving room for underlayment, flashing and other roofing scrap. Larger roofs, multiple layers, or a roof combined with other renovation work may need a different setup. Call us and we'll help you size it.
Why Weight Matters More Than Volume
Every bin includes 1 tonne of disposal. Anything above that is charged at $145 per tonne plus HST, based on the weigh ticket from the disposal site. With light household junk, a full bin rarely reaches a tonne. With shingles, you can reach it before the bin looks full. That's why roofing bins are chosen by expected weight first and by space second.
How to Estimate Your Roof (Rough Guidance)
The following is general, rough guidance only. Every roof is different, and the actual weight depends on the shingle type, how wet the material is, and what else comes off with it.
- Know your roof size in "squares." Roofers measure roofs in squares, where one square covers 100 square feet. Your roofer's quote usually lists this number.
- Count the layers. Tearing off two layers of shingles produces roughly twice the debris, and twice the weight, of one layer.
- Account for extras. Old underlayment, damaged decking, flashing and nails all add weight.
- Then call us. Give us the squares, the number of layers and anything else coming off, and we'll help you choose. Call 613-807-6879.
We won't promise an exact tonnage for a specific roof without knowing the details, and you should be wary of anyone who does.
Tips for Roofing Crews
- Place the bin near the roof edge. Put it where your crew can drop shingles straight from the roof into the bin. This saves time and keeps debris off the lawn and garden.
- Don't mix shingles with bulky junk. Heavy shingles and bulky household items don't load well together. If the homeowner wants to clear out the garage too, plan a separate bin or a later booking.
- Spread the load. Spread shingles across the bin instead of piling them at one end, and keep everything below the top edge.
- Protect the driveway. Boards under the bin's contact points help spread a heavy load.
- Plan the rental length. Weather can delay roofing work. Add extra days at booking if the schedule is tight.
Roofing in Ottawa and Surrounding Areas
We deliver roofing bins across the city, from central Ottawa to Nepean, Orléans and Stittsville. For more sizing help, see What Size Dumpster Do I Need? and our full price breakdown in How Much Does a Bin Rental Cost in Ottawa?
Ready to Book?
Book a 14 yard roofing bin on our dumpster rental page, or call 613-807-6879 for help sizing your roofing job.