14 Yard vs 20 Yard Bin: Which Dumpster Size Do You Need in Oakville?
- Karan Chawla
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- Feb 16
- 4 min read

When planning a renovation, construction project, or major cleanup in Oakville, selecting the right dumpster size is essential. Renting a bin that’s too small can lead to additional costs and delays if you need a second rental.
Understanding the difference between a 14-yard and 20-yard bin will help you make the most cost-effective and practical decision for your project.
What Does “Yard” Mean in Dumpster Sizes?
Dumpster sizes are measured in cubic yards, which represent the volume of material the container can hold. One cubic yard equals a space that measures 3 feet long by 3 feet wide by 3 feet high.
14-yard bin = 14 cubic yards of debris
20-yard bin = 20 cubic yards of debris
The larger the number, the greater the capacity. However, larger bins also take up slightly more driveway or job site space.
14 Yard Bin: A Practical Choice for Medium Projects
The 14-yard bin is a popular option for residential projects that generate a moderate amount of waste. It offers a balance between size and affordability while still providing enough space for most home improvements.
Common Projects for a 14-Yard Bin
Basement or garage cleanouts
Small to mid-sized renovations
Flooring or carpet removal
Deck removal
Small roofing jobs
Yard and landscaping debris
For homeowners tackling one or two areas of the house, this size is often sufficient without overwhelming your driveway space.
20 Yard Bin: Designed for Larger Renovations
If your project involves heavier demolition or larger volumes of debris, a 20-yard bin may be the better option. The additional six cubic yards provide roughly 40% more space than a 14-yard container.
Common Projects for a 20-Yard Bin
Full kitchen remodels
Bathroom renovations with demolition
Whole-house cleanouts
Large roofing projects
Construction and contractor jobs
Major landscaping overhauls
Choosing a 20-yard bin can prevent the need for multiple hauls, which saves both time and money during extensive projects.
Side-by-Side Comparison
Feature | 14 Yard Bin | 20 Yard Bin |
Capacity | 14 cubic yards | 20 cubic yards |
Best For | Medium projects | Large projects |
Driveway Space | Moderate | Slightly larger |
Upfront Cost | Lower | Higher |
Ideal Debris Volume | Moderate | Heavy |
While the 14-yard option may appear more economical, larger projects often benefit from the extra capacity of a 20-yard bin.
How to Choose the Right Dumpster Size
1. Assess the Scope of Your Project
Ask yourself:
How many rooms are involved?
Are you removing cabinets, drywall, or flooring?
Will bulky furniture be disposed of?
For smaller renovations, a 14-yard bin usually works well. For multi-room remodels or demolition-heavy projects, a 20-yard container is often the safer choice.
2. Consider the Type of Waste
Different materials impact space and weight differently.
Light debris (wood, drywall, cardboard) fills space quickly.
Heavy debris (concrete, bricks, soil) may reach weight limits before the bin is full.
Discussing your project details with experienced professionals like All Stars Disposal Inc ensures you choose a bin size that meets both volume and weight requirements.
3. Evaluate Your Property Space
Most Oakville driveways can accommodate both sizes. However, tighter residential areas may benefit from the slightly smaller footprint of a 14-yard container.
Cost Considerations in Oakville
Price generally increases with dumpster size.
If your project nearly fills a 14-yard bin, you may require an additional rental. In that case, upgrading to a 20-yard bin from the start may be more cost-effective.
For transparent pricing and expert recommendations, many homeowners turn to All Stars Disposal Inc to ensure they select the right size the first time.
When It’s Better to Size Up
If you're unsure between a 14-yard and 20-yard bin, consider sizing up if:
You expect more debris than initially estimated
Demolition is involved
Large furniture or cabinets are being removed
You want to avoid potential overflow fees
The slight increase in cost often provides peace of mind and prevents delays.
Smart Loading Tips to Maximize Space
To get the most from your dumpster rental:
Break down bulky items before loading.
Distribute weight evenly throughout the container.
Avoid prohibited materials such as hazardous waste.
Keep debris level with the rim to prevent additional charges.
Proper loading techniques help maximize space and ensure safe transport.
Why Expert Guidance Makes a Difference
Every project generates a different type and volume of waste. Consulting experienced professionals helps eliminate guesswork and prevents costly mistakes.
With reliable service throughout Oakville, All Stars Disposal Inc supports homeowners and contractors by providing dependable bin rentals tailored to each project’s needs.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How much can a 14-yard bin hold?
A 14-yard bin typically holds about 4–5 pickup truck loads of debris. It’s ideal for medium-sized renovations and cleanouts.
How much larger is a 20-yard bin compared to a 14-yard bin?
A 20-yard bin offers six additional cubic yards of capacity — approximately 40% more space.
Will a 20-yard bin fit in my driveway?
In most Oakville residential properties, yes. However, measuring your available space before booking is recommended.
Is it cheaper to rent a smaller dumpster?
Upfront, yes. But if your project requires a second rental, it may cost more overall than renting a larger bin initially.
How long can I keep the bin?
Rental periods vary depending on your needs. Most residential projects require several days to a week.
Final Thoughts
Choosing between a 14-yard and 20-yard bin depends on your project’s size, debris type, and available space. For moderate renovations, a 14-yard container often works perfectly. For larger demolition or construction projects, the 20-yard option provides added flexibility and efficiency.
Making the right choice from the start keeps your Oakville project on schedule and within budget.




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