Cincinnati is known for its vibrant neighborhoods and commitment to sustainability. If you’re replacing your roof, knowing how to dispose of your old shingles responsibly is an essential step to keep our city clean and green.
When replacing an asphalt shingle roof, the process typically begins with removing the old shingles to prepare the roof deck for the new installation. While some homeowners might consider layering new shingles over the existing ones, most roofing professionals in Cincinnati strongly advise against it.
Although this approach might seem like a cost-saving shortcut, it often leads to more significant issues down the road. Stacking shingles can compromise the roof’s durability and reduce the lifespan of your new roof.
Additionally, when it comes time for your next replacement, removing two layers of shingles will increase labor and disposal costs. That’s why a complete tear-off is the best approach for ensuring a long-lasting, high-quality roof.
So, what should you do with the old shingles that have been removed from your roof? There are several ways to go about their disposal, so it helps to know which method works best for your project.
Call in a Junk Removal Company
Disposing of old roofing shingles can be a heavy task—literally. A single square (100 square feet) of shingles can weigh anywhere from 230 to 1,000 pounds. Considering that the average roof size in the U.S. is about 17 squares (or 1,700 square feet), that’s a significant amount of material to haul away. If your roof is larger, potentially around 3,000 square feet, the weight of the debris can really add up.
That’s where junk removal services come in handy. Many of these services operate trucks capable of carrying up to 4,000 pounds of waste—roughly two tons. However, not all junk removal companies handle construction materials like roofing shingles. Be sure to reach out to local options like Rumpke or Larry’s Junk Removal in Cincinnati to confirm they’ll accept your roofing debris.
Donate Your Old Shingles
If your old shingles are still in good condition, they could be put to good use for charitable projects, such as providing roofing for low-income homes. This is especially true if you replaced your roof early to update its style or color, as the shingles may still be under warranty and perfectly usable.
To explore this option, consult your trusted Cincinnati roofing contractor. They may have connections with local organizations or charitable groups that accept or even purchase gently used roofing materials. Donating your shingles not only helps those in need but also reduces waste, making it a win-win for both the community and the environment.
Rent a Dumpster
Many roofing companies handle the disposal of old shingles and other materials by arranging for a dumpster rental. This service is often included in your overall roofing estimate, with a roll-off dumpster placed on-site for the duration of your project.
A 20-cubic-yard dumpster is a common choice, capable of holding 4,000 to 6,000 square feet of shingles. For smaller homes, a 10-yard dumpster may be more appropriate, accommodating around 1,000 square feet of roofing debris.
At Bone Dry Roofing in Cincinnati, we prioritize professionalism and efficiency in every roof replacement project. From start to finish, we take care of everything—including the disposal of your old shingles. When you work with us, you can rest assured that your home and yard will be left spotless, free of any roofing debris.
Give us a call or fill out this form. We look forward to serving you!
