Debris Weight & Volume Calculator
Convert common construction and demolition debris between cubic yards, pounds and tons using material-specific planning factors.
Debris details
Choose a material, then select the direction you want to convert.
How this estimate works
For cubic yards to weight, the calculator multiplies volume by the selected material's pounds-per-cubic-yard factor, then converts pounds to U.S. short tons. For tons to cubic yards, it converts tons to pounds and divides by the same material factor.
Methodology & source
The material factors come from Table 41 of CalRecycle's Targeted Statewide Waste Characterization Study: Detailed Characterization of Construction and Demolition Waste. Examples include:
- Combined concrete: 860 lb/yd³
- Composition roofing: 731 lb/yd³
- Gypsum board: 467 lb/yd³
- Dimensional lumber and pallets: 169 lb/yd³
- Engineered and other recyclable wood: 268 lb/yd³
- Small rock/gravel: 999 lb/yd³
- Dirt and sand: 929 lb/yd³
Official reference: CalRecycle Targeted Statewide Waste Characterization Study
← Roofing Dumpster Calculator · Pickup Loads ↔ Cubic Yards →