One roofing square equals 100 square feet of roof surface. Divide the measured roof area by 100 to find the number of squares. A roof that measures 2,000 square feet has 20 squares.
Use the roof’s surface area, not the home’s listed living space. Those figures can be quite different. The roof’s slope, overhangs and shape all affect its size.
What is a roofing square?
Roofers use a square as a unit for area. It helps them plan materials and price work. GAF explains the same 100-square-foot unit .
Here are three examples based on measured roof area:
- 1,000 square feet divided by 100 equals 10 squares.
- 1,200 square feet divided by 100 equals 12 squares.
- 2,000 square feet divided by 100 equals 20 squares.
These figures describe the roof area before extra material for cuts and waste.
How many bundles of shingles make a square?
Many shingles are sold at about three bundles per square. Some products need a different number. Check the coverage printed on the exact product you plan to use.
For a product that covers one square with three bundles, a 20-square roof would need 60 bundles before waste. This example does not include separate starter strips or ridge caps. The GAF bundle guide explains why bundle counts vary.
Why a 2,000-square-foot house may have a different roof size
Living area counts the floor space inside a home. A two-story home’s living area includes both floors. That number is not the footprint of the roof.
Sloped roof sections also have more surface area than their flat outline. Overhangs add more. Garages and porches may add roof area without adding living space.
Have the roof measured before ordering. Stay off the roof; a roofer can explain how the measurements were taken.
Plan for cuts and waste
Shingles must be cut around edges, valleys and other roof details. Some roof shapes produce more waste than others. Ask how the quote accounts for that.
For example, suppose a measured roof has 20 squares. If the job plan calls for 10% extra field shingles, that adds two squares. At three bundles per square, 22 squares would mean 66 bundles. The 10% is an example, not the right allowance for every roof.
Starter strips, ridge caps and other parts still need their own quantities. Use the manufacturer’s coverage and round the final order to full packages.
Does shingle overlap add more squares?
The stated installed coverage is based on laying the product as instructed. Do not add a second allowance for normal overlap if it is already included in that coverage.
Use the exact product instructions. Keep waste from cuts separate from installed coverage so you do not count the same material twice.
What does a roofing square cost?
A price per square only helps if you know what is included. Labor-only pricing is different from a full installed price. Materials, removal of the old roof, access and deck repairs can change the total.
Read our guide to roofing cost per square for questions to ask when comparing quotes.
Get a measured estimate
Cox Brothers Roofing can inspect your roof and explain the repair or replacement scope. Request an estimate or call (361) 277-0014.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many bundles do I need for a 1,200-square-foot roof?
A measured roof area of 1,200 square feet is 12 squares. If the chosen shingle needs three bundles per square, that is 36 bundles before waste and separate roof accessories. Check the product’s actual coverage.
How many squares is a 1,000-square-foot roof?
It is 10 squares before waste. Divide the measured roof surface area by 100.
How many shingles do I need for a 2,000-square-foot house?
The home’s living area is not enough to calculate that. Measure the roof surface, then use the chosen shingle’s coverage and the job’s waste allowance.
How much does one bundle cover?
Coverage varies by product. A bundle may cover about a third of a square, but some cover less. Read the package and installation instructions before ordering.
