Updated March 8, 2024
A bathroom remodel is a worthwhile project that many homeowners take on. It can transform one of the most-used rooms of your home, but it can also produce quite a bit of waste. Renting a dumpster is a convenient way to manage this debris, but choosing the right size dumpster can feel like a challenge, and we're here to help.
In this guide, we'll explore the various factors to consider so you can choose the right dumpster size for your bathroom remodel.
Table of Contents:
- Common Dumpster Sizes
- Choosing the Right Dumpster Size
- Other Factors to Consider
- Tips for Efficient Dumpster Use
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Common Dumpster Sizes
Understand the most popular dumpster size options available in most areas. Companies may offer slightly different size options, like 12 yard or 15 yard containers, as well as different dumpster weight limits and rental length periods. It's important to know the different size options to choose from as well as the amount of weight included in each dumpster company's dumpster size pricing because getting a dumpster that's too small or too big means you'll end up paying more than you have to.
All of this information should come into play when deciding the right dumpster size and the right dumpster rental service company for you and your bathroom remodel project.
10 Yard
One of the smallest and most common temporary dumpster size options available is the 10 yard dumpster.
10 yard containers can hold a maximum of 10 cubic yards, or roughly three pickup truck loads, of debris. The average included weight limit for 10 yard containers is 2-3 tons or 4,000-6,000 lbs. (Each dumpster company includes different weight allowances in their dumpster pricing. The companies you speak to may include more or less weight than this in their 10 yard dumpster cost.)
This dumpster size is ideal for most bathroom remodels or for remodel projects at a home with limited space for a dumpster.
20 Yard
Another common dumpster size for bathroom remodels is the 20 yard dumpster. This is a great size because it offers double the loading capacity of a 10 yarder while still fitting in most driveways.
20 yard containers can hold a maximum of 20 cubic yards, or roughly six pickup truck loads, of debris. The average included weight limit for 20 yard containers is 3-5 tons or 6,000-10,000 lbs. (Each dumpster company includes different weight allowances in their dumpster cost. The companies you speak to may include more or less weight than this in their 20 yard dumpster cost.)
This dumpster size is suitable for larger bathroom remodels, or a small bathroom remodel along with additional junk or debris cleanup.
30 Yard
30 yard dumpsters can hold approximately nine pickup truck loads of debris, or a maximum of 30 cubic yards. (Each dumpster company includes different weight allowances in their pricing. The companies you speak to may include more or less weight than this in their 30 yard dumpster cost.)
This is a great dumpster size for very large bathroom remodels or projects with substantial waste.
40 Yard
40 yard dumpsters are one of the largest dumpster size options available.
This dumpster size can hold a maximum of 40 cubic yards or roughly 12 pickup truck loads of debris. The average included weight limit for 40 yard dumpsters is 6-8 tons or 12,000-16,000 lbs. (Each dumpster company includes different weight allowances in their pricing. The companies you speak to may include more or less weight than this in their 40 yard dumpster cost.)
These dumpsters are rarely used for bathroom remodel projects alone, but instead are a great option for larger home remodels or home cleanout projects.
Choosing the Right Dumpster Size
Picking the right size dumpster for your bathroom remodel can seem tricky, but it doesn't have to be. There are a few simple steps to follow...
Step 1: Estimate Debris
The first step to selecting the right dumpster size for your bathroom remodel project is by estimating the amount of waste your project will generate. Consider the scope of your remodel, including how much demolition or junk removal needs to take place.
For example, a bathroom remodel that includes taking a bathroom with the dimensions of 8 feet long by 5 feet wide down to the studs will involve roughly 40 square feet of debris, which equates to roughly 1.5 cubic yards.
Learn more: How to Estimate the Weight of a Dumpster Load to Avoid Overage Fees
Step 2: Consider the Type of Debris
Once you have a rough idea of how much debris your bathroom remodel will produce, it's time to take the type of debris into account. Different types of debris take up different amounts of space in a dumpster and weigh different amounts.
For example, if your bathroom remodel involves removing bathroom cabinet boxes, a bathtub, or toilet, you can expect the cubic yardage of your debris to increase. Cabinet boxes alone can take up quite a bit of space and can weigh anywhere from 50-200 lbs on average. Similarly, bathroom fixtures take up varying amounts of space in a dumpster and can weigh different amounts.
If you're not removing your cabinet boxes or any big bathroom fixtures, then your debris footprint will be quite small and you can likely get away with renting the smallest dumpster.
Read on:
Step 3: Consult with Companies
Once you have a decent estimation of the amount of debris your project will generate as well as the type of debris, it's time to reach out to local dumpster rental companies near you. They will be able to recommend the dumpster size they think is right for your project, and they will provide a free quote for the dumpster size they recommend as well as the weight limit that's included. Reaching out to multiple local dumpster rental providers is recommended because it ensures you get the right dumpster for your project's needs as well as the best service.
Hometown makes getting dumpster quotes easy. Simply enter your zip code in the text box above to request free quotes from providers near you.
Keep reading: How to Compare Quotes and Rent a Dumpster from the Right Company
Other Factors to Consider
In addition to considering the amount of debris and the type of debris your bathroom remodel will produce, you'll also want to consider a few other things...
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Dumpster Functionality: Dumpsters come in different types, from roll-off dumpsters to trailer dumpsters or even bag dumpsters. When renting a dumpster for a bathroom remodel, consider whether or not you'll need to load heavy items into the dumpster. If you do have bulky or heavy items, it's ideal to rent a dumpster that has a hinged swinging door that makes it easy to walk large or heavy items into the dumpster. At the very least, if the dumpster does not have a swinging door that allows you to walk into the dumpster, it should have low sides for easily placing items over the sides of the dumpster.
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Dumpster Accessibility: Consider the space available for the dumpster on your property. If you have a narrow or uneven driveway, this is important information that the dumpster companies you speak to should be aware of. When choosing the right dumpster size for your bathroom remodel, you'll want to make sure it can accommodate your debris but also that the dumpster delivery truck can maneuver and place the dumpster safely in a location that's easy for you to access and load your debris.
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Local Regulations: Check with your city's local department to understand any regulations regarding dumpster placement, size restrictions, and permits required for placing a dumpster on your property or in a public right-of-way. Most cities do not require a dumpster rental permit when placing a dumpster on your own private property, like a driveway or yard, only requiring a permit when the dumpster is placed on public property or in the public right-of-way. Your city's local department website should list these requirements.
Tips for Efficient Dumpster Use
Break Down Materials
Disassembling cabinets, countertops, and other items before placing them in the dumpster can help maximize the space inside the container.
Load Strategically
Don't just load the dumpster haphazardly. Place large or heavy items at the back of the dumpster and along the sides to try and create a stable base, rather than overloading one portion of the dumpster, causing the dumpster from becoming unbalanced. Once the heaviest items are loaded into the dumpster, fill in the empty spaces with smaller, lighter items to maximize the use of the space and ensure the dumpster is filled efficiently.
Avoid Overloading
Remember to be mindful of both the dumpster's fill line and the dumpster's weight limit to avoid overloading it. Not only is this dangerous but it can result in additional fees.
Learn more: Why Can't I Fill My Dumpster to the Top?
Recycle Materials
Whenever possible, recycle materials such as metal, glass, and cardboard to reduce the amount of waste going into the dumpster.
Choosing the right size dumpster for your bathroom remodel is key to efficient waste removal and project management. Consider the amount and type of waste you'll generate, local regulations, and available space when selecting a dumpster size. By planning ahead and following these tips, you can ensure a smooth and successful bathroom remodel project.