One of the most shocking line items on a roofing quote is the “Disposal Fee.” Homeowners often ask: “Why am I paying $500 just to throw trash away?”
In reality, roofing debris is heavy, hazardous, and expensive to process. This guide breaks down exactly where that money goes.
The Mathematics of Roofing Waste
A standard asphalt shingle roof weighs roughly 250 to 300 lbs per “square” (100 sq. ft.).
- For a 2,200 sq. ft. roof, you are tearing off 5,500 lbs (2.75 tons) of material.
- If you have two layers of old shingles (common in older homes), that doubles to 5.5 tons.
Breakdown of the Disposal Cost
When a contractor charges you $400–$600 for disposal, it covers three distinct costs:
- The Dumpster Rental: Renting a 20-yard roll-off dumpster typically costs $350–$450 for a week.
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The Tipping Fee (Landfill Tax): Landfills charge by the ton. The national average is $55 per ton, but in states like California or New York, it can exceed $100 per ton.
Calculation: 3 tons x $60/ton = $180 in pure tax. - Labor (The “Schlep” Factor): It takes a crew of 2–3 people several hours to physically carry 3 tons of debris from your roof to the dumpster without damaging your landscaping.
Regional Differences
- Rural Areas: Fees are generally lower ($300–$400) because landfills are closer and cheaper.
- Urban Metros: Fees are higher ($600+) due to traffic, expensive permits to park a dumpster on the street, and high landfill taxes.
Can I Save Money by Doing It Myself?
We strongly advise against “DIY disposal.” Most municipal trash services will not take construction debris. You would need to rent a truck, load it yourself, and pay the commercial gate rate at the landfill. The savings are usually less than $100 for days of back-breaking work.