Roll-Off Containers Aren't Just For Garbage Anymore: 2 Helpful Ways To Use Them In Your Yard

If you've ever looked at those roll-off containers that are used for garbage removal and wondered what else they could be used for, you're in luck. With a little planning, you can use them for the extra space you've been looking for. Here are some great ways to use those roll-off dumpsters.

Compost Heap

Roll-off containers make excellent compost heaps. One of the best ways to go green is to make your own compost. Natural fertilizer allows you to grow fresh, healthy vegetables without the use of chemicals. Not only that, but it keeps food waste out of the local landfill. Here's a quick way to turn an old storage container into a handy backyard compost heap.

Supplies You'll Need

  • Roll-off container

  • Garden hose

  • High-pressure nozzle

  • Black plastic landscape sheeting

  • Duct tape

  • Ladder

  • Metal rake

  • 6' metal pole

Directions

  1. Climb on your ladder to gain access to the top of your container.

  2. Use your garden hose and high pressure nozzle to wash out the inside of your storage container.

  3. Allow the container to thoroughly dry before using.

  4. Line the inside of your storage container with black plastic sheeting. Leave several inches hanging over the sides and secure it with duct tape.

  5. Begin filling your new compost container with food scraps, lawn clippings and old newspaper.

  6. Use your metal rake and pole to stir your compost heap at least once a week.

Emergency Water Storage

If you're planning for emergencies, you probably want to plan for your emergency water supply. With one storage container, you could provide for your emergency water needs. Here's all you'll need to turn your roll-off bin into a water storage tank.

Supplies You'll Need

  • Roll-off container

  • High pressure washer

  • Mild detergent

  • Rust-proof paint

  • Dumpster liner – available through your dumpster company

  • Duct tape

  • Water

  • Submersible pump

  • Syphon hose

Directions

  1. Place a small amount of detergent in your roll-off dumpster.

  2. Use your high pressure washer to thoroughly wash the inside of your dumpster.

  3. Allow the dumpster to air dry.

  4. Paint the inside of your dumpster with the rust-proof paint.

  5. Place the liner in your dumpster.

  6. Pull the edges of the liner over the sides of the dumpster and secure it with duct tape.

  7. Fill your container with water.

  8. Attach the syphon hose to your submersible pump.

  9. Place the pump in the container and close the lid.

  10. Add 5 teaspoons of bleach for every 50 gallons of water you have stored in the container.

You can keep the water fresh by circulating it once a month. The easiest way to do that is to pump out several gallons for use in your yard and then replace it with fresh water. In an emergency, be sure to boil your water before drinking it or cooking with it.

Roll-off containers aren't just for garbage removal anymore. The ideas listed above are just two of the ways you can use them around the yard.


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