When you're working on a renovation, demolition, or construction project, you'll likely generate a significant amount of concrete waste. Hiring a skip bin for concrete disposal is the most efficient solution—but how do you know what size bin you actually need? Estimating your concrete waste volume accurately can save you time, money, and hassle.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you get it right.

1. Measure the Area of Concrete Being Removed

Start by measuring the area (length × width) and the thickness (depth) of the concrete you’re removing. Use meters or centimeters to make conversion easier.

Formula:
Length × Width × Depth = Volume (in cubic meters)

For example:
3m (length) × 2m (width) × 0.1m (depth) = 0.6 cubic meters

2. Convert Volume to Weight (If Needed)

Concrete is dense and heavy. On average, 1 cubic meter of concrete weighs around 2.4 tonnes (2400 kg). Skip bin hire companies often calculate disposal limits based on weight, so it’s important to estimate both volume and weight.

Using the previous example:
0.6 m³ × 2.4 tonnes/m³ = 1.44 tonnes of concrete

3. Choose the Right Concrete Skip Bin Size

Skip bins come in various sizes, from 2m³ to 10m³ and beyond. For heavy waste like concrete, many providers limit you to smaller bins (up to 6m³) to avoid overloading trucks.

Here’s a rough guide:

• 2m³ skip bin = approx. 3–4 tonnes
• 4m³ skip bin = approx. 6–8 tonnes
• 6m³ skip bin = approx. 9–12 tonnes (may not be accepted for concrete by all providers)

Tip: Always confirm weight limits for concrete waste with your skip bin hire company.

4. Factor in Extra Waste

Concrete waste often breaks unevenly and creates more bulk than expected. Add an extra 10–15% buffer to your estimate to avoid running out of space.

Final Thoughts

Accurately estimating your concrete waste volume helps you choose the right bin, avoid overloading fees, and stay compliant with waste regulations. A reliable concrete skip bin hire service will guide you through the process and ensure your waste is disposed of responsibly.

Need help choosing the right bin for your project? Contact a trusted skip bin hire company to get a fast quote today.