What Size Dumpster Do I Need? #1 Answer

Choosing the right dumpster size is a crucial decision when tackling any project involving waste disposal. From small cleanouts to major construction work, dumpsters come in various sizes to suit different needs. But what size dumpster do i need? This article will guide you through selecting the best dumpster size based on project type, waste material, and other key factors.

Standard Dumpster Sizes

Understanding the different dumpster sizes available is the first step in making the right choice. Dumpsters are typically measured in cubic yards, which refers to the volume of waste they can hold.

Here are the most common dumpster sizes:

• 10 Cubic Yards: 10 ft. x 7 ft. x 4 ft. | Holds ~ 1 ton 
• 20 Cubic Yards: 20 ft. x 7 ft. x 4 ft. | Holds ~ 3 tons 
• 30 Cubic Yards: 20 ft. x 8 ft. x 5 ft. | Holds ~ 5 tons
• 40 Cubic Yards: 22 ft. x 8 ft. x 8 ft. | Holds ~ 6 tons

Choosing the right size depends on several factors, including the type of project, amount of waste, and available space.

Key Factors When Asking What Size Dumpster Do I Need

You want to avoid any common mistakes when renting a dumpster, so it’s important to assess the following:

Type of Waste

1. The kind of materials you’ll be disposing of plays a big role in determining the right dumpster size. Some dumpsters are better suited for construction debris, while others are ideal for yard waste or household items. Keep in mind that some materials, like hazardous waste, require special handling and cannot go into a standard dumpster.

Project Scope

1. The scope of your project directly impacts how much waste you’ll produce. A small bathroom renovation will require much less space than a full home remodel or construction job. Calculating your project’s total waste output will help you avoid over- or under-sizing your dumpster.

Property Size

1. The available space on your property will determine how large of a dumpster you can accommodate. For residential areas, a smaller 10 or 20-yard dumpster might be best if space is limited. If the dumpster will be in your driveway for several days, make sure it won’t block key access points.

Budget

1. Larger dumpsters tend to cost more, but sometimes renting a bigger one can save money in the long run by reducing the need for multiple trips to the dump. It’s important to weigh the cost against the convenience and volume of waste you need to dispose of.

Recommended Dumpster Sizes by Project

Here’s a quick guide to help you answer what size dumpster do I need based on common types of projects:

Home Remodel

• A 30-yard dumpster is usually the safest choice for a full home remodel. It’s large enough to handle construction debris like drywall, flooring, and old furniture.

Bathroom Remodel

• For a small or half bathroom, a 10-yard dumpster should suffice. If you’re working on a larger bathroom or need to dispose of bathtubs or sinks, a 20-yard dumpster may be necessary.

Kitchen Remodel

• Kitchens tend to involve heavier and bulkier materials like cabinets, countertops, and appliances. For these projects, a 30-yard dumpster is the recommended size.

Residential Cleanout

• A 20-yard dumpster is perfect for cleanouts involving apartments, small homes, or single-family houses. It can hold old furniture, boxes, and other household items.

Residential Construction

• For construction work at home, such as adding a room or building a garage, a 30-yard dumpster is often the best option. If the project is larger or involves demolition, consider upgrading to a 40-yard dumpster.

Commercial Construction

• Commercial construction projects typically require a 40-yard dumpster. These are designed to handle large quantities of waste from demolition, building materials, and construction debris.

Landscaping

• For smaller landscaping projects, a 10-yard dumpster is ideal for yard debris like branches, soil, and grass. If the project is larger or involves clearing multiple areas, you may want a 20-yard dumpster.

Roofing

• Roofing materials, such as asphalt or slate shingles, are heavier than they appear. To prevent exceeding weight limits, a 10 or 20-yard dumpster is the best size for roofing projects.

How to Calculate Your Dumpster Size Needs

To get a more accurate answer to what size dumpster do I need, calculate the cubic yard volume of your waste. Simply measure the length, width, and height of the materials in feet, multiply them together, and then divide by 27 (since there are 27 cubic feet in a cubic yard). Or you can use a roll off volume calculator.

Additionally, consider how many pickup truck loads your project would require. For example:

• A 10-yard dumpster equals about 4 pickup truck loads.
• A 20-yard dumpster equals about 8 pickup truck loads.
• A 30-yaerd dumpster equals about 12 pickup truck loads.
• A 40-yard dumpster equals about 16 pickup truck loads.

This comparison can help you better visualize the capacity of each dumpster size.

FAQ About Dumpster Sizes

How big is a 10-yard dumpster?

A 10-yard dumpster can hold the equivalent of four pickup truck loads of waste. This size is ideal for small projects like bathroom remodels, landscaping, or small-scale debris removal.

What can I fit in a 20-yard dumpster?

A 20-yard dumpster can hold about eight pickup truck loads of material. This size is commonly used for larger cleanouts, medium-sized remodels, and roofing projects.

When should I choose a 30-yard dumpster?

A 30-yard dumpster can handle 12 pickup truck loads of material and is the best choice for home renovations or construction projects involving large amounts of debris.

What is a 40-yard dumpster used for?

The largest dumpster size, a 40-yard dumpster, holds about 16 pickup truck loads of material. It’s typically used for commercial construction and large-scale demolition projects.

Conclusion: Choosing the Right Dumpster Size

Picking the right dumpster size for your project doesn’t have to be complicated. By considering the factors above like project size, waste type, and property space, you can now answer what size dumpster do I need. If you’re still unsure, most dumpster rental companies are happy to assist with advice tailored to your specific project.