Demolition Debris Weight and Haul-Away Cost Calculator

Estimate the total weight of demolition debris and haul-away cost based on your project's square footage, material composition, and local disposal rates.

Formulas Used

1. Debris Volume (ft³)
Volume = Area (ft²) × Depth (ft)
Depth in inches is divided by 12 to convert to feet.

2. Debris Weight (lb)
Weight = Volume (ft³) × Material Density (lb/ft³) × Compaction Factor

3. Weight in Tons (short tons)
Tons = Weight (lb) ÷ 2,000

4. Truck Loads
Loads = ⌈ Tons ÷ Truck Capacity (tons/load) ⌉  (ceiling function)

5. Haul-Away Cost ($)
Haul Cost = Tons × Haul-Away Rate ($/ton)

6. Landfill / Dump Fee ($)
Dump Cost = Tons × Dump Fee ($/ton)

7. Total Cost ($)
Total = Haul Cost + Dump Cost

8. Cost per Square Foot ($)
Cost/ft² = Total Cost ÷ Area (ft²)

Assumptions & References

  • A short ton equals 2,000 lb, the standard unit used in U.S. waste hauling contracts.