Size by squares, not by volume
A roofing square is 100 square feet. One square of standard architectural comp shingle weighs roughly 250 pounds. That single number is all you need to size the container correctly, and it is the number most people skip.
| Roof size | Layers | Rough weight | Container |
|---|---|---|---|
| Up to 12 squares | 1 | About 1.5 tons | 10 yard, expect some overage |
| 12 to 20 squares | 1 | 2 to 2.5 tons | 20 yard |
| 20 to 30 squares | 1 | 2.5 to 3.75 tons | 20 yard, plan for overage |
| Up to 15 squares | 2 | About 3.75 tons | 20 yard, plan for overage |
| Over 30 squares or 2+ layers | Any | Over 4 tons | Two containers or a scheduled swap |
Note what the table is telling you: on a roofing job, weight runs out before space does, almost every time. A 20 yard container with a 2 ton allowance is full of shingles at roughly 16 squares. Past that you are paying $50 per ton, which is often still cheaper than a second delivery, but you should know it is coming rather than find out on the invoice.
Why a 30 yard is usually wrong for roofing
The 30 yard costs more, includes 3 tons, and gives you room to load 6 or 7 tons of shingles. That is a container you cannot legally haul and a very large overage charge. For tear-offs, stick with the 10 yard or 20 yard and swap if needed.
Reno roofing conditions
Northern Nevada roofs take a specific beating. Intense UV at 4,500 feet ages asphalt shingles faster than the same product would age at sea level. Winter ice damming on north-facing slopes and heavy spring wind across the valley drive most of the emergency re-roof calls we see. Tear-offs cluster in late spring through early fall, so book a few days ahead in peak season.
Wind is also a loading issue. Underlayment, felt and tar paper will leave an open container on a gusty afternoon. Load it under shingle bundles rather than on top, and tarp the container overnight if the forecast calls for wind.
Keep the load clean
Shingles, felt, flashing and roof decking can all go in together. Do not mix in concrete, dirt or general household junk, because a clean roofing load is simpler to price and dispose of. Prohibited items are the same as any container: no hazardous waste, wet paint, solvents, fuels or asbestos. Older Reno homes can have asbestos in roofing felt and mastic, which requires qualified abatement.
Placement for a roofing crew
Set the container as close to the tear-off side of the house as the driveway allows, with the door end facing your work. Crews working off a slide or chute lose real time walking debris around a badly placed box, and the driver cannot reposition it after drop.
Frequently asked questions
What size dumpster do I need for a roof tear-off in Reno?
Count your squares. Up to about 12 squares of single layer, a 10 yard works. Twelve to 20 squares, use a 20 yard. Over 30 squares or with two layers, plan on two containers or a swap.
How much does a square of shingles weigh?
Roughly 250 pounds for standard architectural comp shingle. Three tab is slightly lighter, heavy architectural and tile are considerably heavier.
Can I put roof decking and felt in with the shingles?
Yes. Shingles, felt, flashing and decking can all go in the same container. Keep concrete, dirt and household junk out.
Why not just rent a 30 yard for roofing?
Because you will load far more weight than the 3 ton allowance covers. A 20 yard costs less and keeps you closer to the limit.
Do you handle emergency re-roof debris?
Delivery timing is confirmed with a local service partner. Call and we will tell you the soonest available drop for your address. See the same day page.
Ready to book?
Ten days are included on every rental. Extensions are $10 per day. Overage is $50 per ton over the weight limit.
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