What Is a Roofing Square and How to Calculate It?
If you’ve ever received a roofing estimate or spoken with a contractor, you may have heard the term “roofing square.” But what does it really mean, and why does it matter when planning roof repairs or replacements? At ProCraft Home Products, with more than 70 years serving homeowners, we often guide our customers through these foundational concepts so they can make informed decisions on their roofing projects. Let’s dive in and clear up all the confusion about roofing squares and how to calculate them.
What Is a Roofing Square?
A roofing square is a standardized unit of measurement used within the roofing trade, and it makes estimating, ordering, and discussing roofing materials easier and more consistent for everyone involved homeowners and contractors alike. One roofing square equals 100 square feet of roofing material.
Why Use Roofing Squares Instead of Square Feet?
While square feet might seem straightforward, roofs are rarely simple rectangles and factors like slope, pitch, and roof complexity all affect material needs. Using squares simplifies communication and helps ensure contractors are all speaking the same language, reducing errors and confusion.
Why Is Understanding Roofing Squares Important?
- Accurate Estimates: Knowing how many squares your roof is makes it much easier to compare estimates and understand material and labor needs.
- Budget Planning: Roofing squares make costs more predictable by aligning material orders and labor with exact project needs.
- Material Ordering: Shingles, underlayment, and even flashing are typically sold by the square. Ordering by square helps prevent costly shortages or waste.
How Do You Calculate a Roofing Square?
Step 1: Measure the Surface Area of Your Roof
You’ll need to break your roof into simple shapes (rectangles, triangles) and measure the length and width of each section. Use a tape measure or, if safe access is an issue, refer to blueprints or drone imagery.
Example:
If one side of your roof is 40 feet wide and 25 feet from eave to ridge, the area of that section is:
40 ft (width) x 25 ft (length) = 1,000 sq. ft.Repeat for each section and add the numbers together.
Step 2: Account for Roof Pitch
Roofs are rarely flat. The pitch (steepness) increases the actual surface area. The steeper your roof, the more material you’ll need.
Pitch Multiplier Table:
| Roof Pitch | Multiply by: |
|---|---|
| Flat (0:12) | 1.00 |
| 4:12 | 1.06 |
| 6:12 | 1.12 |
| 9:12 | 1.25 |
| 12:12 | 1.41 |
For instance, for a 6:12 pitch roof, multiply the total area you calculated by 1.12.
Step 3: Convert Total Area to Roofing Squares
Once you have your roof’s actual surface area (accounting for pitch), divide by 100 to determine how many roofing squares your project will need.
Formula:
Total Area (in sq. ft.) ÷ 100 = Number of Roofing SquaresExample:
If your calculated roof area is 2,240 sq. ft.
2,240 ÷ 100 = 22.4 squaresProfessional roofers will usually round up to ensure adequate material.
Common User Questions: Roofing Squares & Your Home
How many bundles of shingles are in a roofing square?
Typically, 3 bundles of asphalt shingles make up one roofing square, though this can vary by shingle design and manufacturer.
Should I include overhangs and waste in my calculations?
Absolutely. Include eaves and overhangs, and add an extra 10% for waste, cuts, and starter shingles, especially if your roof has a lot of valleys, dormers, or intricate shapes.
Can I measure my roof from the ground?
Yes, you can estimate by measuring the house’s footprint for basic calculations, but for accuracy, especially with complex roofs measure each roof surface directly or consult a professional.
Trust ProCraft Home Products for Expert Roofing Advice
After more than seven decades in the roofing industry, we’ve seen how crucial the right information is both to protect your investment and give you confidence in your roofing project. At ProCraft Home Products, our decades of hands-on expertise mean you get honest, practical advice tailored to your home’s unique needs.
Whether you’re calculating squares for a DIY estimate or looking for experienced professionals to handle the job from start to finish, our team is here to help.
Ready to take the next step?
Contact ProCraft Home Products today for your free, no-obligation roof estimate and get clarity, quality, and peace of mind from industry leaders you can trust.
