Having the right-sized dumpster is necessary for effective waste management when working on renovation, construction, or a cleanout project. By renting the right dumpster, you manage waste more effectively and help keep your project running smoothly. Here are a few tips to determine the appropriate size for a dumpster rental:
Research Dumpster Sizes
Dumpster rental services often provide dumpster sizes between 10 to 40 cubic yards. Trash carts work well for parties or job sites as they are smaller than a 10-yard dumpster, and provide a lid, wheels, and large handles. 10-to-15-yard dumpsters work well for medium-sized cleanups like a garage sale and small remodeling projects. A 20-yard container is ideal for waste management during large cleaning projects or flooring removal for a big house. 30- and 40-yard containers work well for projects that generate large, bulky waste like construction or renovation tasks.
Assess Waste Types
Determine the type of waste your project may produce to choose a dumpster size that can accommodate all the debris. A home cleanout may produce domestic waste like old clothes, magazines, cardboard boxes, and plastic, glass, or metal appliances. These types of waste are compressible and can fit in a smaller dumpster. You might need a large dumpster for whole-house cleaning projects, especially when you are getting rid of old furniture.
Construction or remodeling projects generate heavy materials like tiles, bricks, and metals, which require a large dumpster for proper disposal. When doing yard work, you need an appropriately-sized dumpster for disposing of tree trimmings and shrubs. Larger jobs like tree removal or clearing a lot may require a bigger container.
Estimate Waste Volume
Roll-off dumpsters typically measure in cubic yards, so you need to estimate how many cubic yards of waste your project will likely generate. Try estimating waste volumes using something in your home of a familiar size. If your project will generate the equivalent of four pickup trucks or less, a 10-yard dumpster may be enough. You can slightly overestimate the expected waste from your project to avoid renting a second dumpster.
Evaluate Weight Restrictions
Roll-off dumpsters have maximum weight restrictions, even if they are not full. Due to the excess weight, you may damage a trash cart or a small 10-yard container if you fill it with concrete. Overloading a dumpster may also result in additional fees. Talk to your dumpster provider about your project for recommendations on which containers they have for heavy materials. Dumpster rentals also have rules about waste sticking out above container edges, which may influence the dumpster size you need to use.
Assess Area Accessibility
Even when a large dumpster seems appropriate, it helps to assess whether your property can accommodate it. Before paying for a dumpster, determine whether you have enough space for delivery and pickup. Check for obstacles like power lines, other houses, and trees at the delivery location. Measure the area where you plan to place the dumpster and pick a container that will not block driveways, sidewalks, or access to your home. If you want to place the dumpster on a public road, you will need to obtain the proper permits.
Choose the Right Dumpster Rental Size
Choosing the right dumpster size is necessary for effective waste management. Dumpster rental services have experienced staff who can guide you on dumpster sizes and the right containers for different types of waste. These professionals assess factors like the accessibility of the project’s location to help you choose the right dumpster. They also guide you on waste disposal requirements to prevent issues like overloading your dumpster. Work with professional dumpster providers today to help you select an appropriate dumpster for your project.
