Asphalt vs Architectural Shingles for Dumpsters: Which Size Do You Need?

Architectural shingles weigh about 60% more than three-tab asphalt shingles, yet most contractors estimate dumpster needs based on roof square footage alone without accounting for this critical weight difference.

Understanding asphalt vs architectural shingles for dumpsters determines whether your dumpster container handles the job or triggers expensive overage fees.

Prime Dumpster has created a comprehensive guide on asphalt vs architectural shingles for dumpsters that covers weight calculations, layer considerations, and container sizing strategies that prevent costly mid-project rental additions.

Fast Facts: Asphalt vs Architectural Shingles for Dumpsters

“Three-tab asphalt shingles are the lightweight budget option at around 150 to 200 pounds per square, making them easier to handle during removal and disposal,” says the Prime Dumpster Pro. “Architectural shingles weigh more, ranging around 200 to 300 pounds per square. That’s due to their multi-layered construction, which dramatically affects dumpster capacity and weight limit calculations.”

Three-tab asphalt shingles weigh approximately 150 to 200 pounds per square with bundles ranging from 50 to 80 pounds each. Architectural shingles weigh approximately 200 to 300 pounds per square with bundles ranging from 65 to 80 pounds each.

Dumpster Size Guide by Shingle Type:

Understanding these weight differences helps contractors select appropriately sized containers that match disposal needs without triggering costly overage fees or requiring mid-project rental additions.

Asphalt and Architectural Shingle Differences

Each the weight of each shingle type affects disposal planning and associated costs.

Three-Tab Asphalt Shingles: Weight and Applications

Three-tab asphalt shingles weigh between 150 to 200 pounds per square. Each bundle ranges from 50 to 80 pounds, making them the lightest option for most homes. These traditional shingles have three uniform 12-inch tabs, resulting in a flat, simple look.

Three-tab shingles are budget-friendly, suitable for both residential and commercial buildings. Their light weight facilitates easier handling during removal and allows more shingles per dumpster load.

Architectural Shingles: Premium Weight Considerations

Architectural shingles weigh between 400 to 430 pounds per square. This is about 40% more than three-tab shingles. Their stacked design adds shadows and depth, but significantly increases disposal weight calculations.

Bundle weights for architectural shingles range from 65 to 80 pounds each. The extra weight comes from additional asphalt layers, enhancing durability and visual appeal.

Weight Per Square and Bundle Breakdown

Roofing square calculations are based on a standard formula: one square equals 100 square feet of coverage. Most shingles require three bundles per square, covering about 33 square feet each.

Asphalt vs Architectural Shingles for Dumpsters

When selecting a dumpster, it’s crucial to grasp the impact of shingle types on disposal needs. Your planning hinges on precise weight calculations, considering both material and layer count on your roof.

Weight Impact on Dumpster Selection

Three-tab asphalt shingles weigh around 200 pounds per square, allowing for more material before hitting weight limits. 

Architectural shingles, however, weigh 200 to 300 pounds per square, filling dumpsters quicker with fewer squares. 

A 10-yard dumpster can handle about 40 squares of three-tab shingles but only 25 squares of architectural shingles before reaching capacity.

Layer Calculations for Accurate Disposal Planning

Roofs with multiple layers necessitate meticulous calculations to avoid unexpected weight increases. Each additional layer can double or triple the disposal weight:

Common Weight Miscalculations to Avoid

Weight estimation errors can be costly for contractors, leading to delays and increased expenses. Be aware of these common pitfalls:

• Assuming all shingles weigh the same (architectural shingles are 60% heavier)
• Only counting visible layers (check edges and valleys)
• Forgetting that deteriorated shingles absorb water, adding extra weight
• Ignoring underlayment, flashing, and ridge caps

Effective disposal strategies include adding 10% to weight estimates and verifying layer counts at various roof points. Accurate calculations help avoid overload fees and keep projects on track.

Dumpster Size Requirements by Shingle Type

When selecting a dumpster for your roofing project, it’s crucial to consider the type of shingles you’re using. 

Three-Tab Shingle Disposal: Size Guidelines

Three-tab shingles are generally lighter, making them suitable for most residential projects. For small roof repairs covering 10 to 20 squares, a 10-yard container is sufficient, handling up to 2.5 tons. Medium projects, spanning 30 squares, fit well in 15-yard containers. For larger roofs, requiring 40 squares, a 20 yard container is necessary to manage the 5-ton load safely.

Architectural Shingle Disposal: Larger Capacity Needs

Architectural shingles, on the other hand, are nearly twice as heavy as three-tab shingles. This necessitates a larger dumpster. Small repairs using 10 squares can still fit in 10-yard bins. However, 20 squares require a 15-yard container. Most residential projects with 30 squares of architectural shingles need a 20-yard container to handle the 6-ton weight.

Multi-Layer Roof Considerations

Removing multiple shingle layers requires careful planning for commercial roof disposal projects. Each additional layer significantly increases the disposal weight. A 2,500-square-foot home with two layers necessitates a 30 yard dumpster to manage 12 tons of materials. Large commercial buildings with three layers often require multiple 30-yard containers or coordinated pickup schedules.

Weight Limits and Overage Prevention Strategies

Every roll off dumpster has specific weight restrictions, varying by rental company and location. Exceeding these limits can lead to significant overage fees, even if the dumpster appears half full. 

Weight limits typically range from 2 to 10 tons, depending on the dumpster size. A 10-yard dumpster often holds up to 1 ton, while a 40-yard container can handle up to 5 tons.

Effective strategies for preventing overage fees include:

• Add a 20% buffer to your estimated weight calculations
• Choose the next size up when your estimate falls near a limit
• Weigh sample bundles if you’re unsure about shingle weight
• Account for underlayment, flashing, and decking materials
• Never fill dumpsters above the rim line

Accurate weight estimates are essential for controlling project budgets. Contact your rental company to confirm weight restrictions for your area.

Accurate Weight Calculations Prevent Roofing Disposal Disasters

Understanding asphalt vs architectural shingles for dumpsters prevents budget-destroying weight miscalculations and overage fees. Architectural shingles at 400+ pounds per square require larger containers than three-tab shingles at 230 pounds per square, especially when removing multiple roof layers that double or triple disposal weight.

Contact our team to help you find the best dumpster rental options for your roofing project, including expert guidance on container sizing based on your specific shingle type, roof square footage, and layer count.