What Does a Bundle of Shingles Weigh? Calculation Info Here

Renting a dumpster in Long Island for shingles disposal is quite common. But first, you need to know how much your shingles weigh.

A bundle of shingles typically weighs between 50 and 80 pounds, depending on the type of shingle. For example:

• Asphalt shingles, the most common, generally weigh around 50 to 80 pounds per bundle.
• Architectural shingles are thicker and heavier, weighing about 65 to 80 pounds per bundle.
• Wood shingles may weigh a bit less, ranging from 40 to 75 pounds per bundle.

It’s important to note that it usually takes three bundles to cover about 100 square feet of roof (a “square” in roofing terms). The weight of shingles should be factored in when calculating the load capacity for transport or disposal, especially in a dumpster rental scenario for roof tear-offs.

How Can You Estimate the Weight of Your Shingles?

Estimating the weight of shingles is helpful when planning for disposal or transportation. To estimate the total weight of your shingles, follow these steps:

1. Determine the Roofing Area (in squares)

• Measure the total roof area in square feet.
• Divide the total square footage by 100 to get the number of squares (since one square is 100 square feet).
• Example: If your roof is 2,000 square feet, you have 20 squares of shingles.

2. Know the Type of Shingles

• Different types of shingles have varying weights:
  • 3-tab asphalt shingles: about 50–80 pounds per bundle (150–240 pounds per square).
  • Architectural shingles: about 65–80 pounds per bundle (195–240 pounds per square).
  • Wood shingles: about 40–75 pounds per bundle (120–225 pounds per square).

3. Calculate the Weight per Square

• Multiply the number of squares by the weight of shingles per square:
  • Example: If you have 20 squares of architectural shingles (assuming 275  pounds per square), the total weight would be:
    • 20 squares × 275 pounds = 5500 pounds or 2.75 tons.

4. Account for Layers (if re-roofing)

• If you’re removing old shingles and there are multiple layers, multiply your estimate by the number of layers. For instance, if you’re tearing off two layers, multiply by 2.

5. Include Waste and Extra Material

• Roofers typically account for 10–15% more shingles for waste or extra material. Add this percentage to your estimate to get a more accurate figure.

By following these steps, you’ll have a solid estimate of your shingles’ weight, which is helpful for ordering the right size dumpster or managing load limits.

What Should You Do with Old, Unwanted Shingles?

If you have old shingles you’re not going to use, there are several responsible ways to dispose of or repurpose them:

1. Recycle Them

Many roofing shingles, particularly asphalt shingles, can be recycled. Recycled shingles are often repurposed into pavement, reducing waste and benefiting the environment. Check for local recycling facilities that accept shingles.

2. Donate or Give Them Away

If the shingles are in good condition, consider donating them to organizations like Habitat for Humanity or local community projects. You can also list them online through local classified ads for others who might need them for small repairs or DIY projects.

3. Repurpose Them

Old shingles can be reused for various DIY projects around the home. They can be used for garden pathways, shed roofs, or even as protective covers for outdoor areas.

4. Dispose of Them Properly

If recycling or donating isn’t an option, you’ll need to dispose of the shingles properly. Renting a dumpster is a convenient solution, especially if you have a large quantity. Be sure to check with your local waste management service to ensure proper disposal and follow any guidelines for construction debris.

These steps help you manage old shingles in a way that’s eco-friendly and compliant with local regulations.

Contact a Dumpster Rental Company for Shingles Removal

Renting a dumpster is an efficient and convenient solution for managing shingles removal during a roofing project. It provides a centralized place to dispose of old shingles and debris, keeping the worksite clean and organized. This reduces the time and effort needed to haul debris offsite, preventing clutter from accumulating.

 A dumpster can also handle large quantities of shingles, which can be especially heavy during full roof tear-offs or when dealing with multiple layers. By choosing the right dumpster size, you avoid making multiple trips to a landfill, making it a more cost-effective option compared to smaller bins or self-disposal. 

Renting a dumpster ensures that roofing debris, including shingles, is properly collected and disposed of according to local regulations, including recycling when possible. Ultimately, having a dumpster onsite saves time, allowing you to focus on the project rather than frequent clean-up trips, making your roofing job more efficient and hassle-free.