A second layer of shingles roughly doubles the weight of your roofing debris. If one layer of shingles makes 3 tons on your roof, two layers make about 6 tons. That is why a two-layer tear-off often needs a bigger dumpster, a second haul, or both. This guide explains the numbers so you can plan before you book a roofing dumpster in Green Bay.
How Much Weight Does a Second Layer Add?
Each layer of asphalt shingles weighs about the same as the layer on top of it. Two layers weigh about twice as much as one. Weight per square (100 square feet) depends on the shingle type:
| Shingle type | One layer, per square | Two layers, per square |
|---|---|---|
| 3-tab | about 200 lbs | about 400 lbs |
| Laminate (architectural) | about 240 lbs | about 480 lbs |
| Premium or designer | about 300 lbs | about 600 lbs |
These are estimates. Brands, wear, and extras like nails and underlayment change the real number. Old shingles also lose some granules over the years, so the bottom layer may weigh a little less than a new one. Estimate the bottom layer on its own if you can, and do not assume it matches the top layer.
What Does That Mean in Tons? A 25-Square Roof Example
A 25-square roof is about 2,500 square feet of roof. Here is the total debris weight for each shingle type. Divide by 2,000 to get tons.
| Shingle type | One layer | Two layers |
|---|---|---|
| 3-tab | 5,000 lbs (2.5 tons) | 10,000 lbs (5 tons) |
| Laminate | 6,000 lbs (3 tons) | 12,000 lbs (6 tons) |
| Premium | 7,500 lbs (3.75 tons) | 15,000 lbs (7.5 tons) |
The formula is squares x pounds per square x layers ÷ 2,000 = tons. Not sure how many squares you have? Read how to measure your roof in squares.
Have a two-layer roof? Tell us your squares and we will size the dumpster.
Get a Free QuoteCall (920) 876-6287How Does a Second Layer Change the Dumpster Size?
Think of two layers as a roof twice as big. Multiply your squares by the number of layers, then use this chart for asphalt shingles:
| Squares x layers | Dumpster to plan for |
|---|---|
| Up to 15 | 10 or 15 yard |
| 20 to 30 | 20 yard |
| 30 to 40 | 30 yard |
| 40 or more | 40 yard, or two hauls |
Example: a 15-square roof with two layers counts as 30 squares, so plan on a 30-yard. A 25-square roof with two layers counts as 50, so plan on two hauls.
Also check the weight limit. Our 30-yard dumpster includes 4 tons and our 40-yard includes 5 tons. A two-layer 25-square roof weighs 5 to 7.5 tons, which is more than either one holds. For heavy tear-offs we plan a swap, so the load stays under the limit.
Why Weight Is the Problem, Not Space
Shingles are dense. A dumpster of shingles reaches its weight limit before it looks full. Two layers push the weight past the limit even more quickly. If the load goes over, you pay for the extra weight per ton. See how overweight fees work and ask for your per-ton price before you book.
Is a Second Layer Allowed in Wisconsin?
Wisconsin allows a maximum of two layers of shingles, according to the City of Franklin’s re-roofing page. That means:
- If your roof has one layer, a roofer may be allowed to add a second layer over it.
- If your roof already has two layers, the old shingles must come off before new ones go on.
- Local rules can differ, so check with your city or village building office before you start.
Add a Second Layer or Tear Everything Off?
Adding a layer skips the dumpster and saves money now, but it has trade-offs. The Asphalt Roofing Manufacturers Association notes that recovering a roof does not let you inspect or repair the deck underneath. Most manufacturers do not recommend recovering over laminated shingles, and the structure has to be able to carry the extra weight. A full tear-off costs more up front, but you can fix hidden damage and start with a clean roof.
How to Check How Many Layers You Have
- Look at the roof edge, along the eaves and the rake. You can often see the stack of shingle edges.
- Look where the shingles meet the drip edge or a vent pipe.
- Ask your roofer to confirm before they give you a quote. It affects the dumpster you need.
Tips to Plan a Two-Layer Tear-Off
- Tell your dumpster company the layers, the squares, and the shingle type before booking.
- Ask for the included tons and the per-ton cost for extra weight.
- Plan a swap or two hauls instead of overfilling one dumpster.
- Do not mix other junk in with the shingles. It adds weight.
- Keep the load below the fill line and cover it before rain. For a size and weight breakdown, see how much a roofing tear-off weighs.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a second layer of shingles add to a dumpster load?
It roughly doubles the weight. One layer at about 200 to 300 pounds per square becomes about 400 to 600 pounds per square with two layers.
How many tons is a two-layer tear-off?
A 25-square roof with two layers weighs about 5 to 7.5 tons, depending on the shingle type.
Can I fit two layers of shingles in a 20-yard dumpster?
Only on smaller roofs. For a 25-square roof, two layers usually exceed what a 20-yard can safely hold by weight, so plan a larger dumpster or a swap.
How many layers of shingles can a roof have in Wisconsin?
The maximum is two layers. A roof with two layers needs a full tear-off before the next roof goes on.
What happens if my dumpster is overweight?
You are charged for the extra weight per ton. Ask for the included tons and the per-ton price before you book.
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