Best Dumpster Size for Removing Old Flooring in Murfreesboro Homes

Mikayla Lopez • July 25, 2025

 Removing old flooring might seem like a simple job, but it can create more debris than you expect. Whether you're tearing out carpet, tile, laminate, vinyl, or hardwood, the pile of waste adds up fast. Old padding, broken tiles, tack strips, baseboards, and even dust from under the floor can quickly overwhelm your regular curbside trash bin. That’s why renting a dumpster is often the easiest and most efficient solution.


But how do you know what size dumpster you actually need? Picking the wrong size could lead to delays, overage charges, or needing a second bin—all of which add stress and cost to your project. The right dumpster makes the job smoother from start to finish.


We’ll walk you through everything you need to know to choose the best dumpster size for removing old flooring in Murfreesboro, TN. We’ll break down the types of flooring and how much space each one takes up, explain which dumpster sizes work best for different home sizes and project scopes, and share practical tips to help you stay under weight limits and avoid hidden fees. Whether you’re replacing flooring in one room or your whole house, this will help you plan ahead and keep your project on track.

Why Dumpster Size Affects Your Project Success

Tearing out old floors can fill up a dumpster fast. If you pick a size that’s too small, you might need to rent a second one. Too big, and you may pay more than you need to.


Picking the right dumpster saves time, space, and money. It also helps your project stay on track without delays or extra trips to the dump.

Things to Know Before You Book a Dumpster

Know Your Flooring Type and Weight


Not all flooring materials weigh the same, and that can have a big impact on your dumpster rental cost. The carpet is bulky and fills up space quickly, but it’s relatively light. Tile and hardwood, on the other hand, are much heavier—even though they may not take up as much volume. For example, removing tile from just one medium-sized room can weigh twice as much as carpet from the same space. Vinyl planks and laminate flooring fall somewhere in the middle—they're not as heavy as tile, but still add weight quickly when rolled or stacked. Since most dumpster rentals include a set weight limit, knowing what kind of flooring you're removing will help you choose a bin that won’t lead to overweight fees.


Total Area You’re Clearing


The size of the area you’re working on matters just as much as the type of flooring. Removing carpet from a single bedroom will generate far less debris than replacing tile in an entire first floor. If you’re clearing out multiple rooms, a large hallway, or your entire home, you’ll need a bigger dumpster to handle the added volume. Keep in mind that flooring debris stacks up fast, especially once you include padding, adhesive, sub-floor scraps, or damaged baseboards. When estimating your bin size, measure the square footage you plan to clear and consider sizing up if you're doing more than one space.


Extra Waste You Might Forget


Flooring projects create more trash than just the flooring itself. There are always extra materials that pile up—things like old trim, baseboards, foam underlayment, tack strips, nails, screws, and adhesive that gets scraped up. Plus, don’t forget the packaging from new materials: boxes, plastic wrap, and padding can take up valuable space in your dumpster. If you’re using tools or cutting materials on-site, you may even end up with broken blades, splintered wood, or other construction scraps. Always plan for a little more waste than you expect and leave some buffer room in your dumpster to avoid last-minute overflow or the need for a second rental.


Project Timeline and Rental Length


In Murfreesboro, most dumpster rental companies offer a standard 7-day rental period, which is usually enough for flooring projects in one or two rooms. But if your job runs longer—such as a full home renovation, or if you're doing the work on weekends only—you may need extra time. Many companies allow you to extend the rental for a small daily fee, usually between $10 and $25 per extra day. It’s important to ask about these options before you book, so you can build in flexibility if needed and avoid unexpected charges. Scheduling your project and dumpster delivery in sync can help you save money and finish on your own timeline.

Dumpster Sizes for Flooring Projects in Murfreesboro

Here’s a size guide based on common home flooring jobs:

Dumpster Size Use: Capacity:
10 Yard One bathroom or small room 3-4 pickup loads
15 Yard Two room or hallway + bedroom 5-6 pickup loads
20 Yard Kitchen, living room,, or multiple rooms 7-8 pickup loads
30 Yard Full home or heavy flooring like tile 9-10 pickup loads

Local Reminder For Murfreesboro Homeowners

Living in Murfreesboro? Here’s what you need to know:


  • Permits: You won’t need a permit for driveway placement. But if you use a public road or alley, the city might require one.
  • Neighborhood rules: HOAs may limit how long dumpsters can stay. Check ahead.
  • Space: You’ll need at least 20 feet of clear space for the dumpster.
  • Weather: Rain adds weight to materials. Try to cover the bin during storms.

What Can You Put in Your Dumpster?

When removing old flooring in Murfreesboro, most of the materials you’ll be dealing with are safe to toss in a rental dumpster. This includes carpet and carpet padding, vinyl or laminate flooring, ceramic or stone tile, and hardwood or engineered wood. You can also throw in related debris like old trim, nails, tack strips, and dried adhesive scraps.

However, there are some items you should leave out. Liquids like paint, solvents, or glue are not allowed—especially if the containers still have fluid inside. Electronics, rechargeable batteries, and anything that may contain asbestos should also be kept out of the bin, as these are either hazardous or require special disposal. Some types of vinyl flooring with specific chemical coatings may also be restricted. If you're not sure, it's best to check with your dumpster rental company before loading it up.

Avoid These Common Dumpster Problems

  • Wrong size guess: Choosing a bin that’s too small often means ordering a second one. Save time by going a bit bigger than you think.
  • Overfilled bins: Do not fill above the top edge. It can cause pickup delays and extra fees.
  • Going over weight: Heavy tile or wood can push you over. Know your weight limits.
  • Last-minute booking: Dumpsters go fast. Reserve yours ahead of time.

Simple Answers to Flooring Dumpster Questions

  • How do I figure out the right dumpster size?

     Start by measuring the total square footage of the space you’re working on. A standard 10x10 room is about 100 square feet. Once you have your number, look at a dumpster size chart—most companies can help you match your square footage and flooring type to a recommended bin. For example, carpet is bulkier but lighter, while tile is compact but heavy. If you're unsure or doing multiple rooms, it’s a good idea to call a local dumpster company. Tell them what flooring materials you’re removing and how many rooms you’re tackling—they can recommend a dumpster size based on experience.

  • Is there a fee for going over the weight limit?

    Yes, and it can add up quickly. Most dumpster rentals in Murfreesboro include a weight limit—often around 1 to 3 tons depending on the bin size. If your debris exceeds that, you’ll pay a fee for each additional ton, usually between $100 and $135. Flooring materials like ceramic tile, hardwood, or concrete backer board can be very dense and heavy. If you’re even close to the limit, it might be more affordable to size up your dumpster at the beginning than to pay the overage fees later.

  • What if my driveway is too small?

    If your driveway is too short, narrow, or steep for a dumpster, don’t worry—you still have options. In many parts of Murfreesboro, you can place a dumpster on the street, but you’ll likely need a city permit. Check with your local government or ask your dumpster company to help with the permit process. Another option is to place the bin on a level part of your yard, side lot, or gravel area, as long as the ground is dry and firm enough to hold the weight. Be sure to clear space and check for any underground utilities if using a non-paved surface.

  • Can I extend my rental if I’m not finished?

     Yes, most companies offer flexible rental periods. If your project runs longer than expected, you can usually extend your dumpster rental for a small daily fee—often between $10 and $25 per day. Just be sure to call as early as possible, especially if your bin is scheduled for pickup. Some companies need advance notice to keep the dumpster at your location longer or reschedule pickups, so don’t wait until the last minute. Planning ahead gives you more control and helps avoid added stress during your remodel.

  • What if I finish early?

    You’re not stuck with the dumpster for the full rental period if you finish your project sooner than expected. Most companies in Murfreesboro allow early pickups if you give them a call. In some cases, they may even offer a small discount if the dumpster was only used for a few days, though this varies by provider. Even if no discount is available, it’s still a good idea to schedule early removal—this clears space from your driveway and wraps up your project faster.

Quick Checklist Before You Rent

Doing this first can save you time and stress later.

Ready to Clear Out Old Floors?

Don’t let a pile of flooring slow you down. A roll-off dumpster makes cleanup fast, simple, and safe. Whether it’s one room or your entire house, there’s a dumpster size that fits.


For fast delivery, clear pricing, and help picking the right bin, contact a local dumpster rental service in Murfreesboro.


Call or book your dumpster online today and keep your flooring project moving!

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