Complete Guide to Concrete Disposal
Concrete is one of the heaviest materials you'll dispose of. Learn how to handle it properly and avoid costly overage fees.
⚠️ Critical Weight Warning
Concrete weighs approximately 4,000 lbs (2 tons) per cubic yard. A single 10-yard dumpster filled with concrete can weigh 40,000 lbs - exceeding most weight limits by 4-5 times!
Quick Concrete Weight Calculator
Common Concrete Items
- • 4" thick driveway (per sq ft)50 lbs
- • 6" thick slab (per sq ft)75 lbs
- • Standard sidewalk section (3'x3'x4")450 lbs
- • Cinder block (each)35 lbs
Quick Formula
Length (ft) × Width (ft) × Thickness (ft) × 150 = Weight in lbs
*150 lbs per cubic foot is standard concrete weight
Best Dumpster Options for Concrete
10-Yard Heavy Debris Dumpster
Best for: Small concrete projects (patios, small driveways)
Weight limit: Usually 6-10 tons for heavy debris
Cost: $300-$500 (concrete-only pricing)
20-Yard Heavy Debris Dumpster
Best for: Large driveways, foundation removal
Weight limit: Usually 10-12 tons for heavy debris
Cost: $400-$700 (concrete-only pricing)
💡 Pro Tip: Many companies offer special "heavy debris" or "concrete-only" dumpsters with higher weight limits and lower costs than mixed waste dumpsters.
Concrete Disposal Options
1. Concrete Recycling Centers
- • Cost: $0-$20 per ton (often free)
- • Pros: Cheapest option, eco-friendly
- • Cons: You must transport it yourself
- • Best for: Small amounts with truck access
2. Heavy Debris Dumpster
- • Cost: $300-$700
- • Pros: Convenient, handles large amounts
- • Cons: More expensive than recycling
- • Best for: Large projects, no truck access
3. Junk Removal Service
- • Cost: $200-$800+
- • Pros: They do all the work
- • Cons: Most expensive option
- • Best for: Small amounts, no labor available
4. Offer as Free Fill
- • Cost: Free
- • Pros: No cost, helps others
- • Cons: May take time to find takers
- • Best for: Clean, broken concrete chunks
What NOT to Mix with Concrete
Mixing these materials with concrete will result in rejection or contamination fees:
- ✗Dirt or soil (keep separate)
- ✗Trash or household waste
- ✗Wood or lumber
- ✗Metal or rebar (remove if possible)
- ✗Asphalt (different recycling process)
- ✗Paint or chemicals
Money-Saving Tips
Separate Concrete from Other Debris
Rent a concrete-only dumpster for heavy materials and a separate one for lighter debris. This often costs less than overage fees.
Break Into Smaller Pieces
Pieces under 2 feet are easier to handle and pack more efficiently. Some recyclers require this size.
Check for Free Recycling
Many areas have free concrete recycling centers. Search "concrete recycling near me" before renting.
Consider Reuse Options
Clean concrete can be used for retaining walls, garden borders, or fill material. List it free on Craigslist or Facebook Marketplace.
Calculate Your Concrete Disposal Needs
Use our dumpster calculator to determine the right size for your concrete project
Use Dumpster Calculator