What Is a Roofing Square? How to Calculate Squares From Square Feet
A roofing square equals 100 square feet. Learn how to convert and estimate bundles needed.
The Roofing Square: Industry Standard Unit
A roofing square is the standard unit of measurement in the roofing industry. One roofing square equals 100 square feet of roof surface area. When a contractor says a roof is "25 squares," they mean the total roof area is approximately 2,500 square feet.
Roofing materials like shingles, underlayment, and flashing are sold and priced by the square. When your supplier quotes $95 per square for GAF Timberline HDZ, they mean $95 per 100 square feet of coverage.
How to Convert Square Feet to Roofing Squares
Divide the total roof area in square feet by 100. A roof with 2,350 square feet equals 23.5 squares. Round up to 24 when ordering materials.
Remember: roof area is not the same as floor plan square footage. A 2,000 sq ft house can easily have a 2,800 sq ft roof depending on pitch and overhangs.
Bundles Per Square
Standard asphalt shingles require 3 bundles per square. Each bundle covers approximately 33.3 square feet. For a 25-square roof: 25 x 3 = 75 bundles. Add 10-15% for waste and you are ordering 83-86 bundles.
Why Waste Factor Matters
Every valley cut, hip ridge, and starter course generates waste. Simple gable roofs can get away with 10% extra. Complex roofs with hips, dormers, and valleys should use 15% or more.
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